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HISTORICAL COLLECTIONS, 

BEING A 

GENERAL COLLECTION OF INTERESTING FACTS, TRADITIONS, 
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, ANECDOTES, &c., 

RELATING TO THE 

HISTORY AND ANTIQUITIES 



EVERY TOWN IN MASSACHUSETTS, 

WITH 

GEOGRAPHICAL DESCRIPTIONS. 

ILLUSTRATED BY 200 ENGRAVINGS. 



BY JOHN WARNER BARBER, 

AUTHOR OF CONNECTICUT HISTORICAL COLLECTIONS, ELEMENTS OF GENERAL HIS- 
TORY, ETC. 



[The Seal of the State of Massachusetts.] 




[By the sword he seeks peace under Liberty.] 



4 



WORCESTER: 

PUBLISHED BY WARREN LAZELL. 

1844. 



iv PREFACE. 

To the various gentlemen, throughout the commonwealth, who have furnished Inibr- 
mation for the work, the author would here return his grateful acknowledgments, 
particularly to the venerable T. M. Harris, D. D., librarian of the Historical Society, 
and to Maturin L. Fisher, Esq., formerly librarian, and also to Samuel F. Haven, Esq., 
the present librarian of the American Antiquarian Society, for their readiness to afford 
every facility in their power in accomplishing the object of the work. The statements 
respecting the business done in each town were copied from the " Statistical Tables," 
published by the state in 1837. With regard to the title, it being somewhat similar to 
that of the volumes published by the Historical Society, it was, at first, not thought 
advisable to adopt the one now selected ; upon further reflection, however, as the work 
could not, with propriety, be called a History of Massachusetts, but is properly a col- 
lection of materials ; and as the title is in fact different from the volumes above men. 
uoned, it is believed that no just grounds of complaint are given by adopting the present 
title of the book. 

In giving the ecclesiastical history of the several towns, it may perhaps be thought, 
by some, that an undue prominence is given to the Congregational denomination. In 
reference to this, it is to be remembered they are the most ancient, as well as most 
numerous, denomination in the commonwealth ; that almost all the town histories 
•which have appeared have been written by clergymen of that order ; and of course it is 
to be expected that the religious history of their owti denomination would receive their 
first attention. In this publication, impartiality has been attempted ; and whenever 
authentic accounts of other denominations have been obtained they have been 
inserted. Owing to prescribed limits, there has been an absolute necessity of being 
brief on many subjects of importance : many things have been omitted which it was 
desirable to have inserted. There are materials enough to have extended this publi- 
cation far beyond its present limits ; but to have extended it to more than one volume 
•would have rendered it too expensive for general circulation. 

The drawings for the numerous engravings interspersed throughout the book were, 
with few exceptions, taken on the spot by the author of this work. Before deciding 
upon the correctness of these representations, he wishes his readers to remember that 
the appearance of any place will vary considerably as it is viewed from diflerent 
points : thus a north view will appear quite different from one taken at the south. A 
person not being used to see a place from the point from which the drawing is made, 
it may not at the first sight be readily recognised. Before any view is condemned as 
being incorrect, it will be necessary, in order to form a correct judgment, to stand on 
the place from whence the drawing was made. 

In giving notices of distinguished individuals, a limited number only could be 
inserted. In some instances the information respecting some to-wns may have been 
defective. The history of some important towns may apparently not have received 
that attention to which they are entitled. This is owing to two principal reasons: one 
is the failure to obtain the desired information after the attempt was made ; the other 
is the fact, that of some important places but little can be said which would be of general 
interest. Amid such a number of names, dates, Arc, it is probable some mistakes 
may have occurred. A certain writer defines all history to be merely "an approxima- 
tion towards truth." Though this humiliating statement cannot be fully allowed, yet, 
when the imperfection of every thing human is considered, it cannot be denied but 
that it may have some foundation in truth. 

APEit, 1839. ^- ^' "• 



CONTENTS, 





Page. 




Page. 




Paga. 


Abington, . 


494 


Dalton, . 


. 68 


Hawley, 


259 


Acton, . 


. 346 


Dana, 


562 


Heath, . 


. 260 


Adams, 


61 


Danvers, 


. 171 


Hingham, . 


503 


Alford, . 


. 65 


Dartmouth, 


116 


Hinsdale, 


. 75 


Amesbury, . 


157 


Dedham, 


. 455 


Holden, 


572 


Amherst, 


, 310 


Deerfield, . 


245 


Holland, 


. 281 


Andover, . 


159 


Dennis, . 


. 40 


Hollistoa, . 


392 


Ashby, . 


. 347 


Dighton, . 


117 


Hopkinton, . 


. 393 


Ashburnham, 


551 


Dorchester, . 


. 463 


Hubbardston, 


573 


Ashfield, 


. 233 


Douglass, . 


562 


Hull, . 


. 509 


Athol, 


551 


Dover, . 


. 467 






Attleborough, 


. 110 


Dracut, 


386 


Ipswich, 


191 


Auburn, 


553 


Dudley, 


. 563 


Kingston, 


. 509 






Dukes County, . 


146 






Barnstable County, 


. 32 


Dunstable, 


, 387 


Lancaster, . 


574 


Barnstable, . 


33 


Duxbury, . 


498 


Lanesborough, 


. 76 


Barre, . . . ■ 


. 553 






Lee, . 


77 


Becket, 


66 


East Bridgewater, . 


. 500 


Leicester, 


. 578 


Bedford, 


. 34S 


Eastham, . 


42 


Leominster, 


581 


Belcherlown, 


313 


Easthamptou, 


. 318 


Lenox, . 


. 79 


Bellinsham, . 


. 450 


Easton, 


119 


Leverett, 


260 


BerkleV, . 


115 


Edgartown, . 


. 151 


Lexington, . 


. 397 


Berlin, . 


. 555 


Egremont, . 


69 


Leyden, 
Lincoln, 


261 


Bernardston, 


234 


Enfield, 


. 320 


. 401 


Berkshire County, 


60 


Erving, 


253 


Littleton, . 


402 


Beverly, 


165 


Essex, . 


. 175 


Longmeadow, 


. 281 


Billerica, . : 


. 349 


Essex County, . 


156 


Lowell, 


404 


Blandford, . 


276 






Ludlow, 


283 


Bolton, . 
Boston, 


. 555 
532 


Fairhaven, 
Fall River, 


. 120 
121 


Lunenburg, 
Lynn, . 
Lynnfield, . 


581 
. 193 


Boxborough, . 


. 352 


Falmouth, 


. 44 


199 


Boxford, 


168 


Fitchburg, . 


565 




Boylston, 


. 556 


Foxborough, . 


. 468 


Maiden, 


. 409 


Bradford, . 


169 


Framingham, 


387 


Manchester, 


200 


Braintree, 


. 451 


Franklin, 


. 469 


Mansfield, . 


• 125 


Brewster, . 


37 


Franklin County, 


233 


Marblehead, 


201 


Bridpwater, . 
Brighton, . 


. 495 


Freetown, 


. 125 


Marlborough, 


. 411 


352 


Florida, 


70 


Marshfield, 


511 


Brimfield, 


. 276 






Marshpee, 
Medfield, . 


. 46 


Bristol County, . 


110 


Gardner, 


. 568 


471 


Brookfield, . 


. 557 


Georgetown, 


176 


Medford, 


. 413 


Brookline, . 


451 


Gill, . 


. 253 


Medway, . 
Mendon, 


474 


Buckland, 


. 240 


Gloucester, 


176 


. 582 


Burlington, 


354 


Goshen, 


. 321 


Methnen, . 


206 






Grafton, . 


568 


Middleborough, 


. 512 


Cambridge, . 


. 354 


Granby, 


. 320 


Middlefield, 


328 


Canton, 


453 


Granville, . 


280 


Middleton, . 


. 207 


Carlisle, 


. 363 


Great Barrington, . 


70 


Middlesex County, 


346 


Carver, 


497 


Greenfield, 


256 


Milford, 


. 587 


Charlestown, 


. 364 


Greenwich, . 


. 321 


Millbury, . 


586 


Charlemont, 


240 


Groton, 


389 


Milton, . 


. 475 


Charlton, 


. 561 






Monroe, 


261 


Chatham, . 


38 


Hadley, ... 


. 322 


Monson, 


. 284 


Chelmsford, . 


. 374 


Halifax, . 


501 


Montague, . 


262 


Chelsea, . 


549 


Hamilton, 


. 181 


Montgomery, 


. 286 


Cheshire, 


. 67 


Hampden County, 


275 


Mount Washington, 


82 


Chester, . 


279 


Hampshire Couniy, 


. 310 






Chesterfield, 


. 316 


Hancock, . 


73 


Nantucket County, 


. 445 


Chilmark, . 


143 


Hanover, 


. 502 


Natick, 


415 


Clarksburg, . 


. 67 


Hanson, 


503 


Needham, 


. 477 


Cohasset , . 


454 


Hardwick, 


. 571 


New Ashford, . 


83 


Coleraine, 


. 242 


Harwich, . 


45 


New Bedford, 


. 126 


Concord, . 


377 


Harvard, 


. 571 


New Braintree, . 


588 


Conway, 


. 244 


Hatfield, . 


326 


Newbury, . . 


. 208 


Cuirumngton, 


317 


Haverhill, 


. 1821 


Newburyport, . 


210 



vitl 



INDEX. 



Mallefuild, J., epitaph, . 
Mann, Bazaleel, ana Dr., epitaph, 
Marine Hospital, Chelsea, . 
Marblehead, description of, 1720, 
Marriage, first, notice of, 
Massnsoit, sickness of, . 
Massachusetts, Fort, 
Massachusetts patent, . 
Mather, Cotton, notice of, 
Mattapoisett village, 
Mayhew, Gov., 
McLean Asylum, 
Monument mountain. 
Monument at Concord, . 
Monument at Bloody Brook, . 
Monument at Bunker Hill, . 
Monument at Danvers, . 
Monis, Ratibi Judah, . 
Mountain Miller, account of, . 
Mt. Holyoke Fenuile Seminary, 
Mugford, Cajit. James, . 
Murder of Miss McKinstry, . 

Nahant, account of, 

Nashoba, Indian town, . 

Navy yard, Charlestown, 

Newman, Rev. Mr., remarkable death. 

Newspaper, first in America, 

Nonantum, Indian settlement, 

Old colony seal, 
Oldtown £arbor, . 
Ordination at Woburn, . 
Ordination, at Salem, 
Ossian, quotation from, . 
Otis, James, notice of, . 



Page, " Old Governor," . 
Paine, Robert Treat, notice of, 
Paper-mill, first in N. E., 
Parsons, Theophilus, notice of, 
Paskhomuch, Indian attack on. 
Pear tree, ancient, Eastham, 
Perkins, Jacob, notice of, 
Philip's war, 
Philip, King, draught by, 
Pickering, Timothy, epitaph, 
Pilgrim Society, . 
Pilgrim Hall, ' . 
Pilgrim Fathers, landing of, 
Pirates at Saugus, 
Plymouth settlers, names of, 
Pool, Miss, monimient of, 
Powder mill explosion at Lee 
Pratt, Mr., great age of, 
Prentice, Capt. T., epitaph, 
Punkapoag, Indian town, 
Puritans, account of, 
Pynchon house, Springfield, 



Quakers, laws against, 
Quincy Market, Boston, 
Quiucy, Josiah, epitaph, 
Quinsigamond lake, 



Regicides. Goffe and Whalley; 
Robbins. Dr., library, . 
Rock, fractured, Sunderland, 
Rocks, sacrifice, Plymouth, 
Rock, writing, at Dighton, 
Roijers, Rev. E., epitaph, 
Rolfc, Rev. Mr., killed hy Indians, 
Russell, Rev. J. and Mrs., epitaph, 
Rutland, incursion of Indians, 



Pa?e. 

298 

. 115 

549 

, 203 

15 

16 

64 

15 

548 

524 

, 154 

366 

72 

335 

247 

373 

174 

590 

336 

339 

210 

, 144 

, 197 

, 402 

; 365 

, 133 

. 544 

, 419 

, 522 
. 152 
. 443 
. 220 
. 259 
35 

. 565 

, 145 

. 477 

. 215 

, 318 

. 42 

, 216 

, 24 

, 526 

, 227 

. 521 

. 519 

. 13 

. 230 

. 12 

. 143 

. 78 

. 272 

. 421 



292 

23 
543 
481 
603 

323 
525 
273 
522 
117 
218 
187 
326 
601 



Saddle Mountain, view of, . 
Salt, manner of making, 
Samoset, account of, 
Scammel, Gen. Alexander, . 
Sea serpent, account of, . 
Seal of Massachusetts, &c., . 
Sergeant, Rev. John, 
Shaker village in Hancock, . 
Shays' defeat at Springfield, . 
Sheffield, remarkable occurrences in, 
Sherman, Rev. J., epitaph, . 
Shipwreck of the pirate Bellamy, 
Skeleton, &c., fouml at Fall River, 
Snake attack on Nauhaught, 
South Boston, view of, . 
Spurzheim, monument of. 
Stamp Act, .... 
Standish, Capt., notice of, 
State prison, Charlestown, . 
Slale-nouse, Boston, 
Stockbridge Indians, account of, 
Stoddard, Kev. Mr., preservation of, 
Stone, Capt. J., epitaph, 
" Striped Pig," &c. 
Superstition of an Irishman, . 
Swamp fight, Xarragansetts, 
Swift, Rev. J., epitaph, . 

Tappan, Benj., epitaph, 
Tea, destruction of, 
Thatcher, Col. J., notice of, . 
Thompson, E., epitaph, 
Thomas, Isaiah, notice of, 
Tornado at Salisbury, . 
Townsend, Daniel, epitaph, . 
Treat, Rev. Mr., burial of, . 
Turner's falls. 
Turner, Capt., killed, . 
Tuttle, Mr., killed by mistake, 

Ursuline convent. 

Van Rensselaer, Mr. remarkable 

preservation of, . 
Vale of West Boylston, 

Walker, J., epitaph, 
Ward, Judge, intrepidity of, . 
Ward, Artemas, Hon., epitaph, 
Wachusett, Mt., view of, 
Wadsworth, Capt., killed, . 
Wamesit, an Indian town, 
Warren, Gen., notice of, 
Washington elm, . 
Webster, John, epitaph, 
Webster, Hon. Daniel, residence, 
Wesleyan academy at Wilbraham, 
Weld, Rev. Mr., notice of, . 
Wells, J., escape from the Indians, 
Whale fishery, 

Whaling song, by Dr. Osborn, 
Whitman, Eliza, notice of, . 
Whiteficld, notice of, monument, &c., 
Willet, Capt. Thomas, notice of, 
Williams. Hon. I., epitaph, . 
Williams, Mrs., killed hy Indians, 
Williams, Rev. S., epitaph, . 
Witchcraft at Andover, 
Witchcraft at Danvers, . 
Witchcraft, notice of. 
Witchcraft, Cotton Mather's account. 
Wood's hole, Falmouth, 
Wood, Capt. David, epitaph. 
Woodcock, John, notice of, . 



MASSACHUSETTS. 



OUTLINE HISTORY. 

Massachusetts, =^ the oldest of the New England states, and 
the first in population and resources, was first permanently settled 
by Europeans at Plymouth, on the 22d of December, 1620. There 
is good reason to believe that the first civilized people who visited 
the territory now comprised within the limits of the state, were the 
Norwegians, who emigrated from Iceland, and formed a settlement 
on the coast of Greenland in A. D. 986. From this place, in A. D. 
1000, a ship, with a crew of thirty-five men, proceeded southward 
on a voyage of discovery. From the account of their voyage, 
which is still preserved, it appears highly probable that they sailed 
as far south as Narragansett bay, near the head of Avhich it is 
supposed they passed the winter. It also appears that after this 
period they made other voyages along the coast, and even attempted 
settlements, of the fate of which we have no information. 

About the period of the commencement of the seventeenth century, 
the English sovereigns maintained a despotic power over the con- 
sciences of their subjects. All who dissented from the national 
creed established by law were persecuted with great rigor. The 
avowed maxim in that age, adopted by religious as well as political 
rulers, was, that uniformity in religion was essential to the peace 
of society ; and that it was therefore the right and duty of every 
sovereign to maintain it in his dominions, by the force of law and 
punishment. 

In 1602, a number of religious people in the north of England, 
called Puritans, (so called from their efforts to preserve purity in 
divine worship,) were so persecuted on account of their religious 
sentiments, that they were compelled to take measures to find 
refuge in a foreign land. A little band of these brethren entered 
into a solemn covenant with each other "to walk with God and one 
another, in the enjoyment of the ordinances of God, according to 
the primitive pattern," whatever it might cost them. A number 
of ministers entered into this association, among whom was Mr. 
Robinson, a man of eminent piety and learning. 

Mr. Robinson, and as many of his congregation as found it in 

* This word was the name for an Indian tribe Avho lived around the vicinity of 
Massachusetts Bay. The word Massachusetts, according to Roger Williams, signifies, 
in the Indian language, Blm-Hilh. 

2 



10 OUTLINEHISTORY. 

their power, left England in the years 1607 and 1608, settled in 
Amsterdam, in Holland, from whence, in 1609, they removed to 
Leyden. Here they lived in great friendship among themselves 
and their neighbors, until they removed to New England. As 
early as 1617, Mr. Robinson's people meditated a removal to 
America. The reasons of their removal were, to preserve the 
morals of their youth, which were in danger of being corrupted by 
the dissolute manners of their neighbors, the Dutch ; the desire of 
perpetuating a church which they believed to be constituted after 
the simple and pure model of the primitive church of Christ ; and 
a zeal to propagate the Gospel in the regions of the new world. 

These reasons having been duly considered by the church, after 
seeking divine direction by humiliation and prayer, they agreed to 
come over to America, and settle in a distinct body, under the 
general government of Virginia. They also agreed that their 
pastor, Mr. Robinson, should remain with the greater part of the 
church, whether they chose to remain at Leyden, or to come over 
to America. In 1617 tiiey sent Mr. Robert Cushman and Mr. 
John Carver to England, to treat with the Virginia Company, and 
ascertain whether the king would grant them liberty of conscience, 
if they removed to their territory. The Virginia Company were 
very desirous to have them settle within the limits of their patent; 
the king, however, woidd grant no public recognition of religious 
liberty, but promised that if they behaved peaceably he Avould 
not molest them on account of their religious sentiments. In 
February, 1619, Mr. Cushman and Mr. Bradford were sent to 
England, Avhere, after a long attendance, they obtained of the 
Virginia Company a patent of the northern parts of Virginia. This 
patent was taken out in the name of John Wincob, a religious 
gentleman in the family of the Countess of Lincoln, who intended 
to accompany them, but was providentially detained. This patent 
therefore was never used, but carried, however, to I^eyden, with 
proposals from Mr. Weston, and several other respectable mer- 
chants and friends, for their consideration, with a request that 
immediate preparations should be made for their voyage. 

After a day of solemn prayer, in accordance with their custom 
previous to their engaging in important concerns, the congregation 
of Mr. Robinson concluded to remove to America. As it was not 
convenient for all of them to go at once, it was agreed that part of 
their number should go, and make preparation for the rest. After 
due consultation, it was determined that Mr. Robinson and the 
greater part of the congregation should remain at Leyden. The 
other part, with Mr. Brewster for their elder and teacher, agreed 
to be the first adventurers. A small ship, of about sixty tons, 
called the Speedwell, was now purchased and fitted out in Holland ; 
another of about one himdred and eighty tons, called the May- 
fiowe)\ was hired at London. " All other matters being prepared, 
a large concourse of friends from Amsterdam and Leyden accom- 
panied the adventurers to the ship, which lay at Delft Haven ; and 
the night preceding their embarkation was spent in tearful prayers, 



OUTLINEHISTORY. 11 

and in the most tender and friendly intercourse. The next day- 
fair wind invited their departure. The parthig scene is more 
easily felt than described. Their mutual good wishes, their 
affectionate and cordial embraces, and other endearing expressions 
of christian love and friendship, drew tears even from the stran- 
gers who beheld the scene. When the time arrived that they must 
part, they all, with their beloved pastor, fell on their knees, and 
with eyes, and hands, and hearts lifted to Heaven, fervently com- 
mended their adventuring brethren to the Lord and his blessing. 
Thus, after mutual embraces, accompanied with many tears, they 
bid a long, and many of them a last, farewell." 

Having a fair wind, they arrived at Southampton about the 2d 
of July, and found that the Mayflower had arrived at that place 
from London, and immediate preparations were made for embarka- 
tion. They divided themselves into two companies, one for each 
ship, and, with the approbation of the captains, each company 
chose a governor, and two or three assistants, to preserve order 
and distribute provisions. They sailed from Southampton on the 
5th of August. They had not proceeded far, before the smallest 
ship proved so leaky, that they were obliged to return and refit. 
On the 21st of August, they sailed again, and proceeded about one 
hundred leagues, Avhen they were obliged to return again, when the 
smaller ship was left behind as unfit for service. Leaving a part 
of the company which had embarked in the smaller vessel, the 
remainder went on board of the Mayflower. On the 6th of Septem- 
ber, they set sail from Plymouth. After a boisterous passage, 
they arrived at Cape Cod on the Dth of November, and the next 
day they anchored in the harbor which is formed by the hook of 
the cape. This however was not the place of their destination ; 
neither was it within the limits of their patent. It was their inten- 
tion to have been landed at the mouth of Hudson river ; but it 
appears the Dutch, intending to plant a colony there of their own, 
secretly hired the master of the ship to contrive delays in England, 
and then to conduct them to these northern coasts, and there, under 
the pretence of shoals and winter, to discourage them hi venturing 
to the place of their destination. 

Finding that they Avere not within the limits of their patent, and 
consequently not under the jurisdiction of the Virginia Company, 
they concluded it necessary to establish a separate government for 
themselves. Accordingly, before landing, having devoutly given 
thanks to the Almighty for their safe arrival, they formed them- 
selves into a body politic by a solemn contract, to which they all 
.subscribed, and Mr. John Carver was unanimously chosen their go- 
vernor for the first year. The following is a copy of this contract, 
with the names of the signers, the number in their families, &c. 

" In the name of God, Amen. We vhose names are under written, the loyal sub- 
jects of our dread sovereign Lord Kins James, by the grace of God, of Great Britain, 
France and Ireland, king, defender of the faith, iScc, having undertaken, for the glory 
of God and advancement of the christian faith and honor of our king and country, a 
voyage to plant the first colony in the northern parts of Virginia, do, by these presents, 
solemnly and mutually, in the presence of God and of one another, covenant and com 



12 



OUTLINE HISTORY, 



bine ourselves together into a civil body politic, for our better ordering and preserva- 
tion, and furtherance of the ends aforesaid ; and bj' virtue hereof do enact, constitute, 
and frame such just and equal laws and ordinances, acts, constitutions, and offices, 
from time to lime, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the general good 
of the colony, unto which we promise all due subjection and obedience. In witness 
whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names, at Cape Cod, the 11th day of 
November, in the year of the reign of our sovereign Lord King James of England, 
France and Ireland, the eighteenth, and of Scotland the fifty-fourth, Anno Domini 
1620." 
This compact was subscribed in the following order by 



No. in Family. 

John Rowland, (of Car- 
ver's family,) 
Mr. Stephen Hopkins,! 8 

* Edward Tilly,t 4 

* John Tilly,t 3 
Francis Cook, 2 

* Thomas Rogers, 2 

* Thomas Tinker,! 3 

* John Ridgdale,t 2 

* Edward Fuller,f 3 

* John Turner, 3 
Francis Eaton,f 3 

* James Chilton, f 3 

* John Crackston, 2 
John Billington,! 4 

* JMoses Fletcher, 1 



No. in Family. 



* John Goodman, 

* Degory Priest, 

* Thomas Williams, 
Gilbert Winslow, 

* Edward Margeson, 
Peter Brown, 

* Richard Britterige, 
George Soule, (of Edward 

Winslow's family) 

* Richard Clarke, 
Richard Gardiner, 

* John Allerton, 

* Thomas English, 
Edward Dotey, Edward 

Leister, (both of Ste- 
phen Hopkins' family.) 



No. in Family. 
Mr. John Carver.f 8 

Mr. William Bradford,! 2 
Mr. Edward Winslow,f 5 
Mr. William Brewster,f 6 
Mr. Isaac Allerton. f f> 

Capt. ]Miles Standish,t 2 
John Alden, 1 

Mr. Samuel Fuller, 2 

* Mr. Christopher Mar- 
tin,! 4 

* Mr. William Mullins,t 5 

* Mr. William White,! 5 
(Besides a son born in 

Cape Cod harbor, and 
named Peregrine) 
Mr. Richard Warren, 1 

This brief, and comprehensive, and simple instrument established a most important 
principle, a principle which is the foundation of all the democratic institutions of Ame- 
rica, and is the basis of the republic ; and, however it may be expanded and compli- 
cated in our various constitutions, however unequally power may be distinguished in 
the different branches of our various governments, has imparted to each its strongest 
and most striking characteristic. 

Many philosophers have since appeared, who have, in labored treatises, endeavored 
to prove the doctrine, that the rights of man are inalienable, and nations have bled 
to defend and enforce them, yet in this dark age, the age of despotism and supersti- 
tion, when no tongue dared to assert, and no pen to write, this bold and novel doctrine, 
which was then as much at defiance with common opinion as with actual power, of 
which the monarch was then held to be the sole fountain, and the theory was univer- 
sal, that all popular rights were granted by the crown, — in this remote wilderness, 
amongst a small and unknown band of wandering outcasts, the principle thai the will 
of the majority of the people shall govern, was first conceived, and was first practically 
exemplified. 

The pilgrims, from their notions of primitive Christianity, the force of circumstan- 
ces, and that pure moral feeling which is the offspring of true religion, discovered, a 
truth in the science of government which had been concealed for ages. On the 
bleak shore of a barren wilderness, in the midst of desolation, with the blast of winter 
howling around them, and surrounded with dangers in their most awful and appall- 
ing forms, the pilgrims of Leyden laid the foundation of American liberty. — Baylies, 
vol. i. p. 29. 

Government being thus established, their next object was to find 
a convenient place for a settlement. On the same day sixteen men, 
well armed, with a few others, were sent on shore to fetch Avood 
and make discoveries. They returned at night without having 
found any person or habitation. On the 15th of November, Miles 
Standish, and sixteen armed men, in searching for a place for set- 
tlement, saw five or six Indians, whom they followed for several 

! Those with this mark brought their wives. 

* Those who died before the end of the next March are distinguished by an aste- 
risk. 



OUTLINEHISTORY. 18 

miles, until night ; but, not overtaking them, were obliged to lodge 
in the woods. The next day they discovered heaps, one of which 
they dug open ; but finding within implements of war, they con- 
cluded these were Indian graves. In different heaps of sand they 
also found baskets of corn, a quantity of which they took away, 
to the amount of about ten bushels. This was a fortunate disco- 
very; it gave them seed for a future harvest, and probably saved 
the infant colony from famine. They made diligent inquiry for 
the owners of the corn, whom they found, and afterwards paid 
them to their entire satisfaction. Before the end of November, 
Peregrine White, the son of William and .Susanna White, was 
born, being the first child of European parents born in New 
England. 

On the sixth of December, the shallop was sent out with seve- 
ral of the principal men. Carver, Bradford, Win slow, Standish, 
and others, and eight or ten seamen, to sail around the bay in 
search of a place for a settlement. The next day the company 
divided; and some travelled on the shore, whilst the others coasted 
in the shallop. On the morning of the eiglith, those on the shore 
were surprised by a party of Indians, who shot their arrows at 
them; they however instantly fled upon the discharge of the mus- 
kets of the English. On the night of the ninth, being Saturday, 
they reached a small island, (since called Clark's Island). They 
reposed themselves, and on the next day on this spot they kept 
the Christian Sabbath. The day following, December 11th, O. S., 
they sounded the harbor, and found it "fit for shipping." A part 
of their number landed and went some distance into the country. 
They also examined the land near the shore, and found it hai 
been planted with Indian corn two or three years before. A beau- 
tiful brook was near, and a number of springs of pure water; and 
judging this to be a good place for a settlement, they returned with 
the welcome intelligence to the ship. This day has since been 
considered as the day on which the Pilgrim Fathers landed on 
the Rock of Plymouth. The day which has been annually cele- 
brated in commemoration of this momentous event, is the twenty- 
second of December, N. S., which has been supposed to correspond 
with the eleventh, 0. S. 

On Saturday the 23d, they began to cut timber and provide 
materials for building. This business found them employment, 
when the weather would permit, till about the 19th of February. 
The whole company, consisting of one hundred and one souls, were 
divided into nineteen families, who each built their own house or 
hut ; they all, however, engaged in building a storehouse twenty feet 
square for common use. From the time of their arrival on the coast, 
till the day of their permanent landing, the weather was often stormy 
and severe. The men who were employed in exploring the coast, 
were exposed to great hardships from watchings and fastings, wet 
and cold. During the month of December, six of their number 
died, and many others sickened of grievous colds, of which they 
never recovered. On the Lord's day, December 31st, they attend- 



14 OUTLINE HISTORY. 

cd public worship for the first time on shore, and named the place 
Flymouth; partly because the harbor was so named by Capt. 
Smith, who visited this coast in 1614, and partly from gratitude 
for the kind treatment they had received from Christian friends at 
Plymouth, the last port in England Avhich they had left. 

The colonists, on the 9th of January 1621, proceeded to the 
erection of their toAvn, which they built in two rows of houses 
for greater security. On the 14th, their common storehouse took 
fire from a spark that fell on its thatched roof, and was entirely 
consumed; but providentially, by the timely exertions of the peo- 
ple, the contents of the building, so necessary for their support, 
were preserved. On the 17th of February they met for settling 
military orders, and Miles Standish was chosen their captain. 
The settlers sutfered extremely this month by sickness and death, 
and no less than seventeen of their number died. Their sufferings 
were much increased by the want of well persons to take care of 
the sick ; there being at one time no more than six or seven in 
tolerable health. In March, 1621, fifty-five only survived of the 
one hundred and one who came in the Mayflower. 

On the 16th of March, an Indian came into Plymouth alone, 
and surprised the inhabitants by calling out in broken English, 
'■^ Welcome, Englishmen! Welcome, Englishmen!^' He was the 
first of the natives who visited them ; his name was ^Smnoset, and 
was a Sagamore who had come from Mo7ihiggon, (a place now in 
the limits of Maine,) where he had learned something of the 
English tongue from the captains of the fishing vessels who 
resorted thither. He informed the Plymouth people that the place 
where they were seated was called by the Indians Patuxet ; that 
all the inhabitants died of an extraordinary plague about four 
years since ; and that there was neither man, woman nor child 
remaining. No natives, therefore, were dispossessed of their land 
to make room for the English, exceptmg by the providence of God, 
before their arrival. 

Samoset Avas treated with hospitality by the settlers, and M'as 
disposed to preserve an intercourse with them ; and on his third 
visit brought Sqnanio, one of the natives who had been basely 
carried oil' by Capt. Hunt in 1614, and afterwards lived in 
England. These Indians informed tlie English that Massasoit, 
the greatest king of the neighboring tribes, was near, with a train 
of sixty men. The meeting between him and the English was 
conducted with considerable formality and parade. They entered 
into a friendly treaty, wherein they agreed to avoid injuries on 
both sides, to punish offenders, to restore stolen goods, to assist 
each other in all justifiable wars, to promote peace among their 
neighbors, «fcc. Massasoit and his successors for fifty years invio- 
lably observed this treaty. The prudent and upright conduct of 
the Plymouth settlers towards their neighbors, the Indians, secured 
their friendship and alliance. On the 13th of September, 1621, no 
less than nine sachems declared allegiance to king James, and 
Massasoit, with many sachems under him, subscribed a writing 
acknowledging the king of England as their sovereign. 



O U T L I N E H I S T O R Y . 15 

The first marriage in the colony was solemnized on May 12th, 
1621, betAveen Mr. Edward Winslow and Mrs. Susanna White. 
The first duel in New England was fought on the ISth of June, 
between two servants, both of whom were wounded. For this 
disgraceful oft'ence, they were formally tried before the whole com- 
pany, and sentenced to have " their heads and feet tied together, 
and so to be twenty-four hours without meat or drink." Such, 
however, was the painfulness of their situation, and their piteous 
entreaties to be released, that, upon promise of better behavior in 
future, they were soon released by the governor. The colonists 
planted twenty acres with corn, of which they had a good crop. 
They were instructed in the manner of planting by Squanto; but 
were unsuccessful in their first trial with English grain, by reason, 
as is supposed, of the lateness of the season, and bad quality of the 
seed. Governor Carver was taken sick on the fifth of April, while 
engaged in planting corn, and died in a few days. His death was 
greatly lamented, as he was a man of great piety, humility, and 
benevolence. He possessed a considerable estate, the greater part 
of which he expended for the good of the colony. Soon after his 
death, Mr. William Bradford was chosen governor, and by renewed 
elections continued in oflice for several years. 

On the 3d of November, 1620, king James signed a patent incor- 
porating the Duke of Lenox, the Marquises of Buckingham and 
Hamilton, the Earls of Arundel and Warwick, Sir Ferdinando 
Gorges, with thirty-four others, and their successors, styling 
them " The Council established at Plymouth, in the county of 
Devon, for planting, ruling, ordering, and governing of New Eng- 
land in America." To this council he granted that part of Ame- 
rica which lies between the fortieth and forty-eighth degrees of 
north latitude. This patent was the great civil basis of all the 
grants and patents by which New England was afterwards divided. 
The Plymouth Council retained the power vested in them by the 
crown until the year 1635, when they resigned their charter. 
Previous to this, however, the council had made several grants of 
land to adventurers who proposed to settle in New England. 
They granted New Hampshire to Capt. John Mason in 1621 — the 
Province of Maine to Sir R. Gorges in 1622 — and Massachnsettc 
Bay to Sir Henry Roswell and five others in 1628. 

In 1622, Mr. Weston, a merchant of London, having procured 
for himself a patent for a tract of land in Massachusetts Bay, sent 
two ships, with fifty or sixty men, at his own charge, to settle a 
plantation. This company attempted a settlement at Weymouth, 
but, "being a set of rude, profane fellows, regardless of justice, 
provoked the Indians by stealing their corn, and other abuses, to 
become their enemies, and occasioned much trouble, both to them- 
selves and the Plymouth settlers." The Indians soon entered into 
a conspiracy to destroy the settlement, which they would have 
effected, had it not been for the interposition of their Plymouth 
friends. 

The Plymouth settlers having received information that the 



16 OUTLINEHISTORY. 

sachem Massasoit was sick and apparently near death, and that a 
Dutch ship was driven ashore near his house, the governor sent 
Edward Winslow and John Hambden to visit him, and speak Avith 
the Dutch. Having Hobamack for their guide, they reached the 
residence of Massasoit, whom they found extremely ill, but, by the 
timely assistance of Mr. Winslow, he recovered. The following is 
an account of this journey as narrated by Mr. Winslow. 

" The next day, ("March 1623) about one of the clock, we came to a ferry in Con- 
batant's country, wnere, upon discharge of my piece, divers Indians came to us, from 
a house not far off. There they told us that Massassowat was dead, and that day 
buried ; and that the Dutch would be gone before we could get thither, having hove 
off their ship already. This news struck us blank ; but especially Hobbamock, who 
desired we miglu return with all speed. I told him I would first think of it, consider- 
ing now that, he being dead, Conbatant was the most like to succeed him, and that 
we were not above three miles from Mattapuyst, his dwelling place. Although he 
were but a hollow-hearted friend toward us, I thought no time so fit as this to enter 
into more friendly terms with him, and the rest of the sachems thereabout; hoping, 
through the blessing of God, it would be a means, in that unsettled state, to settle 
their affections towards us ; and though it were somewhat dangerous, in respect of 
our personal safety, because myself and Hobbamock had been employed upon a ser- 
vice against him, which he might now fitly revenge ; yet, esteeming it the best 
means, leaving the event to God in his mercy, I resolved to put it in practice, if mas- 
ter Hamden and Hobbamock durst attempt it with me; whom I found willing to that 
or any other course might tend to the general good. So we went towards Mattapuyst. 

" In the way, Hobbamock, manii'esting a troubled spirit, brake forth into these 
speeches: 'Neen ivomasu Sagimvs, 7ieen womasu Sagimus, &:c.,-— My loving sachem, 
my loving sachem ! Many have I known, but never any like thee.' And, turning to 
me, he said whilst I lived I should never see his like amongst the Indians ; saying 
he was no liar; he was not bloody and cruel, like other Indians. In anger and pas- 
sion he was soon reclaimed ; easy to be reconciled towards such as had offended him ; 
ruled by reason in such measure as he would not scorn the advice of mean men ; 
and that he governed his men better with few strokes than others did with many ; 
truly loving where he loved ; yea, he feared we had not a faithful friend left among 
the Indians ; showing how he ofttimes restrained their malice, ikc; continuing a long 
speech, with such signs of lamentation and unfeigned sorrow, as it would have made 
the hardest heart relent. 

"At length we came to IMaltapuyst, and went to the sachimo comaco, for so they called 
the sachem's place though they call an ordinary house ivitco ; but Conbatant, the 
sachem, was not at home, but at Puckanokick, which was some five or six miles ofi'. 
The squa sachem, for so they call the sachem's wife, gave us friendly entertainment. 
Here we inquired again concerning Massassowat : they thought him dead, but knew 
no certainty. "Whereupon I hired one to go, with all expedition, to Puckanokick, that 
we might know the certainty thereof, and withal to acquaint Conbatant with our there 
being. About half an hour before sun-setting the messenger returned^ and told us 
that he was not yet dead, though there was no hope we should find him living. Upon 
this we were much revived, and set forward with all speed, though it was late within 
night ere we got thither. About two of the clock, that afternoon, the Dutchmen 
departed ; so that in that respect our journey was frustrate. 

" When we came thither, we found the house so full of men, as we could scarce get 
in, though they used their best diligence to make Avay for us. There w^ere they in 
the midst of their charms for him, making such a hellish noise as it distempered us 
that were well, and therefore unlike to ease him that was sick. About him were six 
or eight women, who chafed his arms, legs, and thighs, to keep heat in him. AVhen 
they had made an end of their charming, one told him that his friends, the English, 
were come to see him. Having understanding left, but his sight was wholly gone, 
he asked who was come. They told him Winsnow, for they cannot pronounce the 
letter /, but ordinarily n in the place thereof. He desired to speak with me. When 
I came to him, and they told him of it, he put forth his hand to me, which I took. 
Then he said twice, though very inwardly, Kceyi Winsnow ? which is to say. Art thou 
Winslow ? I answered, Ahhe, that is, Yes. Then he doubled these words : Matta 
neen wonckauet namen, Winsnow ! that is to say, Winslow, I shall never see thee 
again. 



OUTLINEHISTOKY. IT 

" Then I called Hobbamock, and desired him to tell Massassowat. that the governor, 
hearing of his sickness, was sorry for the same ; and though, by reason of many busi- 
nesses, he could not come himself, yet he sent me with such things for him as he 
thought most likely to do him good in this extremity ; and whereof if he pleased to 
take, I would presently give him; which he desired; and having a confection of many 
comfortable conserves, on the point of my knife, I gave him some, which I 
could scarce get through his teeth. When it was dissolved in his mouth, he 
swallowed the juice of it ; whereat those that were about him much rejoiced, saying 
he had not swallowed anything in two days before. Then I desired to see his mouth, 
which was exceedingly furred, and his tongue swelled in such a manner as it was not 
possible for him to eat such meat as they had, his passage being stopped up. Then I 
washed his mouth, and scraped his tongue, and got abundance of corruption out of 
the same. After which I gave him more of the confection, which he swallowed with 
more readiness. Then he desired to drink. I dissolved some of it in water, and gave 
him thereof. Within half an hour this wrought a great alteration in him, in the eyes 

of all that beheld him. Presently after his sight began to come to him Then 

I gave him more, and told him of a mishap we had, in breaking a bottle of drink, 
which the governor also sent him, saying, if he would send any of his men to 
Patuxet, I would send for more of the same ; also for chickens to make him broth, 
and for other things, v,"hich I knew were good for him ; and would stay the return of 
his messenger, if he desired. This he took marvellous kindly, and appointed some?, 
who were ready to go by two of the clock in the morning ; against which time I made 
ready a letter, declaring therein our good success, the state of his body, (Sec, desiring 
to send such things as 1 sent for, and such physic as the surgeon durst administer to 
him. 

" He requested me that, the dav following, I would take my piece, and kill him some 
fowl, and make him some English pottage, such as he had eaten at Plymouth ; which 
I promised. After, his stomach coming to him, I must needs make him some without 
fowl, before I went abroad, which somewhat troubled me ; but being I must do some- 
what, I caused a woman to bruise some corn, and take the flour from it, and set over 
the grit, or broken corn, in a pipkin, for they have earthen pots of all sizes. Whea 
the day broke, we went out, it being now March, to seek herbs, but could not find any 
but strawberry leaves, of Mhich I gathered a handful, and put into the same ; and be- 
cause I had nothing to relish it, I went forth again, and pulled up a sassafras root, 
and sliced a piece thereof, and boiled it, till it had a good relish, and then took it out 
again. The broth being boiled, I strained it through my handkerchief, and gave him 
at least a pint, which he drank, and liked it very well. After this his sight mended 

more and more ; a iid he took some rest ; insomuch as we with admiration 

blessed God for giving his blessing to such raw and ignorant means, making no 
doubt of his recovery, himself and all of them acknowledging us the instruments of 
his preservation. That morning he caused me to spend in going from one to another 
amongst those that were sick in the town, requesting me to wash their mouths also, 
and give to each of them some of the same I gave him, saying that they were good 
folk. This pains I took with ^villingness, though it were much oftensive to me, not 
being accustomed with such poisonous savors. 

" The messengers were now returned, but finding his stomach come to him, he would 
not have the chickens killed, but kept them for breed. Neither durst we give him 
any physic, which was then sent, because his body was so much altered since our 
instructions ; neither saw we any need, not doubting now of his recovery, if he were 
careful. Many, whilst we were there, came to see him ; some, by their report, from 
a place not less than a hundred miles. Upon this his recovery, he brake forth into 
these speeches : ' Now I see the English are my friends and love me ; and whilst I live, 
I will never forget this kindness they have showed me.' Whilst we were there, our 
entertainment exceeded all other strangers." — Good News from New England. 

Massasoit, gratefully impressed with the kind offices performed 
by Winslow, revealed a plot of the Massachusett Indians against 
Weston's people at Wessagnsset, and, lest the English at Plymouth 
should avenge their countrymen, they were also to be destroyed ; 
and he advised them to kill the conspirators, as the only means of 
security. The governor, on receiving this intelligence, which was 
confirmed by other evidences, dispatched Capt. Standish with 
eight men, in order, if a plot should be discovered, to fall on the 
3 



18 OU TI, IN E H IS TO R Y. 

conspirators. Standish sailed to the Massachusetts, where the 
natives, suspecting his design, insuhed and threatened him. 
Watching his opportunity, when four of the principal conspirators 
were in a room with about the same number of his own men, 
he attacked them, and, after a dreadful struggle, succeeded in kill- 
ing the whole. This sudden and unexpected execution so terrified 
the other natives, who had intended to join with the Massachusetts 
in the conspiracy, that they forsook their houses and fled to swamps 
and desert places, where they contracted diseases which proved 
mortal to many of them, among whom were a number of sachems. 

The fame of the plantation at Plymouth being spread in the 
west of England, Mr. White, a celebrated minister of Dorchester, 
in 1624, excited some merchants and other gentlemen to attempt 
another settlement in New England. They accordingly, on a 
common stock, sent over several persons, wlio began a plantation 
at Cape Ann. In March of this year, Mr. Winslow, agent for the 
colony, arrived in the ship Charity, and, together with a good sup- 
ply of clothing, brought a bull and three heifers, which were the 
first cattle of the kind in this part of America. At the close of 
this year (1624) the plantation at Plymouth consisted of one hun- 
dred and eighty persons, who lived in thirty-two dwelling-houses. 
Their stock was a few cattle and goats, and a plenty of swine and 
poultry. Their town was pallisadoed about half a mile in compass. 
On a hill in the town, they had a fort well built of wood, and a 
watch-tower. This year they freighted a ship of one hundred and 
eighty tons. 

The year 162.5 is distinguished by the death of the Rev. Mr. 
Robinson. He died at Leyden, in March, 1625, in the fiftieth year 
of his age. He was truly a great and good man, and highly 
esteemed. After his death, his wife, children, and most of his 
congregation, came and joined their brethren, the colonists at Ply- 
mouth. In 1630, when the plantation consisted of about three 
hundred souls, a patent was taken out in the name of William 
Bradford, his heirs, associates, and assigns. This patent con- 
firmed their title to a tract of land bounded on the east and south 
by the Atlantic ocean, and by lines drawn west from the rivulet 
Connohasset, and north from the river of Narragansett, which 
hues meet in a point, comprehending all the country then called 
Pokanokit. In the same patent was granted a large tract border- 
ing on the river Kennebec, (now in the state of Maine,) where 
they carried on a traffic with the natives for furs. This patent 
passed the king's hand, but, on account of the agents of the colony 
inserting a clause without their advice, the patent was never 
finished, and they remained without a charter until they were 
incorporated with Massachusetts in 1691 or 1692. rVotwithstanding 
this, Plymouth was a government de facto, and considered as such 
by king Charles in his letters and orders which were sent them at 
various times, previous to their incorporation with Massachusetts. 

On the 19th of March, 1628, the Plymouth Council sealed a 
patent to Sir Henry Roswell and five others, of all that part of 



OUTLINEHISTOHY. 19 

New England included between a line drawn tliree miles south of 
Charles river, and another three miles north of the river Merrimac, 
from the Atlantic to the South sea. A royal charter, giving pow- 
ers of government, passed the seals March 4th, 1629. At this 
period a few scattering settlements only had been made in Massa- 
chusetts Bay. In the summer of 1628, Mr. Endicott, one of the 
original planters, with a small colony, was sent over to begin a 
plantation at Naumkeag, (now Salem). The June following, 
about two hundred persons, with four ministers, came over and 
joined Mr. Endicott' s colony ; and the next year they formed them- 
selves into a church, being the first church gathered in the original 
colony of Massachusetts, and the second in New England; the 
church at Plymouth being gathered eight years before. In 1630, 
seventeen ships came over to Massachusetts from different ports in 
England, with more than lifteen hundred passengers, among whom 
were many persons of distinction. Many of these persons were 
from illustrious and noble families. Having been accustomed to a 
life of ease and enjoyment, their sufferings for the first year A\nere 
very great, and proved fatal to many ; among others to the lady 
Arabella, who "came from a paradise of plenty and pleasure, in 
the family of a noble earl, into a wilderness of wants." She died 
at Salem, where she first landed, and Mr. Johnson, lier husband, 
overcome with grief, survived her but a short time. About this 
time settlements were made at Charlestown. Dorchester, Cam- 
bridge, Roxbury and Boston. The first General Court of Massa- 
chusetts was held October 19th, 1630, at Boston, by the freemen 
of the corporation at large. At this court it was agreed that, in 
future, the freemen should choose the assistants, and that the 
assistants should choose from among themselves the governor and 
deputy-governor. The court of assistants were to have the power 
of making laws and appointing officers. Being desirous of esta- 
blishing a religious conmionwealth, they ordained " that none but 
church members should be admitted to the freedom of the body 
politic," or enjoy the privilege of voting. 

In 1632 and 1633 great numbers of emigrants came over to New 
England. Such was the tide of emigration, that the king in coun- 
cil issued an order in February, 1633, to prevent it. Notwith- 
standing this order, Messrs. Cotton, Hooker, and Stone, three emi- 
nent ministers, who were considered the most famous pillars of 
the churches, came over this year, with two hundred emigrants, 
and landed at Boston. Mr. Cotton settled at Boston, the other 
two at Cambridge. Mr. Hooker, with one hundred others, re- 
moved in 1636, and settled Hartford in Connecticut. In 1634, it 
was found so very inconvenient for all the freemen to assemble in 
one place and transact their business, the mode of legislation was 
altered by the general consent of the towns. They delegated to 
twenty-four representatives the authority granted by the charter to 
the whole body of freemen. The appellation of General Court, 
which had been applied to all the freemen v.^hen assembled, was 
now transierred to their representatives. It was during this year 



20 O U X L I .N E H I 6 T O K Y . 

(1634) that Roger Williams^ the minister of Salem, having occa- 
sioned disturbances by tenets considered not only heretical, but 
seditious, and being found irreclaimable, was ordered to leave the 
colony. He retired to Rehoboth, which was then within the juris- 
diction of Plymouth. In 1635, there came to Massachusetts a 
large number of inhabitants from England, among whom were 
Hugh Peters, who was afterwards chaplain to Cromwell, and Mr. 
Vane, afterwards Sir Henry Vane, who acted a conspicuous part 
during the Commonwealth of England. Mr. Vane was made 
governor of the colony the year after his arrival. His popularity, 
however, was transient. During his administration, in 1636, Mrs. 
Hutchinson, a woman distinguished for her eloquence, held weekly 
meetings for persons of her own sex, in which she commented on 
the sermons of the preceding Sunday, and advanced mystical and 
extravagant doctrines. These spread rapidly among the people, 
and many became converts, among whom were (jovernor Vane, 
Mr. Cotton and Mr. Wheelwright, two distinguished ministers. 
Great excitement was produced among the people, the final result 
of which was, a synod was appointed to be held at Cambridge in 
August, 1637, where were assembled both ministers and messen- 
gers of churches, and magistrates, who, after three weeks' disputa- 
tion, condemned as erroneous upwards of eighty opinions, said to 
have been maintained by persons in the country. In consequence 
of this, Mrs. Hutchinson and some of her principal followers were 
sentenced to banishment. She, with her husband and family, 
removed to Rhode Island, where, in 1642, Mr. Hutchinson died. 
She, being dissatisfied with the people or place, removed to the 
Dutch country beyond New Haven, where she was killed, with all 
her family, being sixteen in number, except one daughter, who was 
carried into captivity. 

The year 1637 was distinguished by the Pequot war in Con- 
necticut, in which were killed five or six hundred Indians, and the 
warlike Pequots were mostly destroyed. This first war with the 
Indians struck such a terror into the surrounding tribes, that for 
forty years afterwards they never openly conmienced hostilities 
with the English. In 1640, the tide of emigration from England 
ceased. Persecution having ceased in England, the motives for 
coming to New England were removed. They who then professed 
to give the best account, say that in two hundred and ninety-eight 
ships, which were the whole number from the beginning of the 
colony, there arrived iwenty-one thousand two hundred passengers, 
men, women, and children, perhaps about four thousand families. 
After this period it is supposed that for a long time afterwards 
more persons returned to England, than came from England to 
the colonies. " Such, however. Avere the character and virtues of 
the emigrants, such the power over difiiculties, which their reso- 
hite minds, and bodies hardened by labor, had imparted to them, 
that they continued to increase with astonishing rapidity in wealth 
and numbers." 

In 1643, four of the New England colonies, Massachusetts, Con- 



OUTLINKHISTOKV. 21 

necticut, Plymouth and New Haven, united in a confedcrHcy foi 
mutual protection and assistance. The articles of union and con- 
federation were signed at Boston, on the 19th of May. The rea- 
sons assigned for this union, were, the danger from the Indians, 
from the Dutch at New York, and from the French ; also the 
impossibility of obtaining aid from the mother country in case of 
any sudden attack. By the articles of the confederatioa. each 
colony was to appoint two commissioners, Avho were to assemble 
by rotation in the respective colonies, and were empowered to 
enact ordinances of general concern: and in case of invasion each 
colony was bound to furnish a stipulated proportion of men and 
money. The commissioners who formed the unioU; declared, that, 
as in nation and religion, so in other respects, they be and continue 
one ; and henceforth be called by the name of The United Colonics 
of New England. TJiis union rendered the colonies formidable to 
their enemies, and secured the peace and rights of the country. 

The first instance on record in Massachusetts of a trial for witch- 
craft, was in 1648, when Margaret Jones, of CliarlestoAvn, was indict- 
ed for a witch, found guilty, and executed, in accordance with the 
laws of England against this crime. " >She was charged v/ith 
having such a malignant touch, that if she laid her hands upon 
man, woman, or child, in anger, they were seized presenthT" with 
deafness, vomiting, or other sickness, or some violent pains." 
Since the year 1634, committees, consisting of ministers and prin- 
cipal laymen, were appointed almost every year, for twelve or 
fourteen years, to prepare a code of laws for the colony. Mean- 
while, laws of the greatest necessity had been successively enacted. 
This year (1648) the whole were collected, ratified by the court, 
and printed. In civil actions, equity, according to the circum- 
stances of the case, seems to have been their rule of determining. 
In punishing offences, they professed to be governed by the judi- 
cial law of Moses, but no farther than those laws were of a moral 
nature. Many of their sentences previous to their having a regu- 
lar code of laws, seem to be adapted to the circumstances of a 
large family of children and servants, as will appear from the fol- 
lowing, which, from among many others of the same sort, are 
taken from the public records. 

Josias Plaistowe, for stealing four baskets of corn from the Indians, is ordered to 
return them eight baskets, to be fined five pounds, and hereafter to be called by the 
name of Josias, and not Mr., as formerly he used to be.* 

Captain Stone, for abusing Mr. Ludlow, and calling him justass. is fined one hun- 
dred pounds, and prohibited from coming within the patent, without the governor's 
leave, upon pain of death. 

Serjeant Perkins ordered to carry forty turfs to the fort for being drunk. 

Edward Palmer, for his extortion in taking two pounds thirteen shillings and four- 

Eence for the wood-work of Boston stocks, is fined five pounds, and ordered to sit one 
our in the stocks. 

* They were very careful to give no titles where they were not due. In a list of 
one hundred freemen you will not find above tour or five distinguished by Mr., although 
they were men of some substance. Goodman and gnodwife were the common appella- 
tions. 



22 O U T L I N E H I S r O K Y . 

Capt. Lovel admonished lo take heed of light carriage. 

Thomas Petit, for suspicion of slander, idleness and stubbornness, is censured to 
be severely whipped ancl to be kept in hold. 

Catharine, the wife of Kichard Cornish, was found suspicious of incontinency, and 
seriously admonished to take heed. 

Daniel Clarke, found to be au immoderate drinker, was fined forty shillings. 

John Wedgewood, for being in the company of drunkards, to be set in the stocks. 

John Kitchin, for showing books which he was commanded to bring to the governor, 
and forbidden to show them to any other, and yet showed them, was fined ten shil- 
lings. 

Hubert Sliorthosc. for swcarins: by the blood of God, v>'as sentenced to have his 
tongue put into a cleft stick, and to stand so for the s])ace of half an hour. 

Great numbers of the like kind might be added. — Hutcliinso/i' s Hist, of Mass., vo\. i. 
p. 43(3. 

About this period, the custom of wearing long hair, "after the 
maimer of Russians and barbarous Indians," as Gov. Endicott 
and others termed it, was deemed contrary to the word of God, 
which says "it is a shame for a man to wear long hair."' The 
rule in New England was, that none should wear their hair below 
their ears. In a clergyman it was peculiarly offensive, as they 
were required to go with open ears. A few years before this, 
tobacco was prohibited under a penalty, and the smoke, in some 
manuscripts, is compared to the smoke of the bottomless pit. 
Some of the clergy fell into the practice of smoking, and tobacco, 
by an act of government, "was set at liberty." 

The trade of the colony increasing, especially with the West 
Indies, where the huainecvs or pirates at this time were nmiierous, 
and part of the wealth they took from the Spaniards, as well as 
what was produced by the trade, being brought into New England 
in bullion, "it was thought necessary, for preventing fraud ni 
money," to erect a mint for coining shillings, sixpences, and three- 
pences, with no other impression at first than N. E. on the one 
side, and XII., VI., or III. on the other; but in October, 1651, the 
court ordered that all pieces of money should have a double ring 
with this inscription, Massachusetts, and a tree in the centre, and 
New England and the year of our Lord on the other side.* The 
annexed cut is a representation of one of these coins. 



* The first money being coined in 1652, the same date was continued upon all that 
^^as struck for thirty years afterwards. No other colony ever presumed to coin metal 
into money. A very large sum was coined, and the mint-master made a large fortune 
by it, as he was allowed to take fifteen ])ence out of every twenty shillings for the 
trouble of coining, A:c. It was commonly re]iortcd that Mr. Sewall, who married his 
only daughter, received with her thirty lliousand pounds in New England shillings.- 
Jlutchinsonh Hist. vol. i. p. 178. 




OUTLINEHISTORY. 23 

In the year 1656 began what is generally called the persccutiou 
of the Ciuakers. The first who openly professed their principles 
in the colony were Mary Fisher and Ann Austin, who came from 
Barbadoes in July of this year. In a few weeks after, nine others 
arrived in a ship from London. Being brought before the court 
of assistants on the 8th of September, they affirmed they were 
sent by God to reprove the people for their sins. Being questioned 
how they could make it appear that God had sent them, they. 
after a pause, replied, that they had the same call that Abraham 
had to go out of his country. To other questions they gave rude 
and contemptuous answers, which is the reason assigned for com- 
mitting them to prison. A great number of their books, which 
they intended to circulate over the country, were seized and re- 
served for the fire. Soon after this, as the governor Avas going 
from public worship on the Lord's day, several gentlemen accom- 
panying him, Mary Prince called to him from a window of the 
prison, railing and reviling him, saying. '• Woe unto thee, thou art 
an oppressor," and denouncing tlic judgments of God upon him. 
She also wrote him a letter, filled with opprobrious language. 
The governor sent for her twice from the prison to his own house, 
and, with a number of ministers, endeavored with much tenderness 
and moderation to convince her of her errors. She, however, 
railed upon them, calling them hirelings, deceivers of the people, 
Baal's priests, the seed of the serpent, <!slc. 

At this time there was no special provision made in the laws 
for the punishment of Quakers ; but, in virtue of a law which 
had been made against heretics in general, the court passed sen- 
tence of banishment upon them all. Afterwards other severe laws 
were enacted, among which were tlie following : any Quaker, after 
the first conviction, if a man, was to lose one ear, and for the 
second the other; a woman, each time to be severely whipped ; 
and the third time, whether man or woman, to have their tongues 
bored through with a red-hot iron. In October, 1658, after much 
opposition by members of the court, they, by a majority of one 
vote only, passed a law for punishing with death all Quakers who 
should return into their jurisdiction after banishment. Under this 
law four persons were executed. The friends of the Quakers in 
England now interposed, and obtained an order from the king, 
September 9th, 1661, requiring that a stop should be put to all 
capital or corporeal punishments of his subjects called Quakers, 
and that such as were obnoxious should be sent to England. This 
order was obeyed, and all disturbances by degrees subsided. 

Much censure has been passed upon the New England colonies 
for their severe laws against those calling themselves Quakers ; 
yet it must be recollected that the laws in England against them, 
at this period, were severe, and although none were put to death 
by public execution, yet many were confined in prisons, where 
they died, in consequence of the rigor of the law. One principal 
thing which tends to mislead the judgment of many, in this pre- 
sent age, is the supposition that those who suffered the punishment 



24 O U T L I N K H I S r () R V . 

of the law were essentially of the same spirit and practice of the 
respectable and worthy society of Friends or Quakers of the pre- 
sent day. This is a mistake ; many who went by this name at 
that period may be considered as fanatics, and proper subjects of 
a madhouse. The following instances of their conduct may be 
considered as a species of madness. -'Some at Salem, Hampton, 
Newbury, and other places, coming into the congregations and 
calling to tlie minister in time of public worship, declaring their 
preaching, &c., to be an abomination to the Lord. Thomas New- 
house went into the meeting-house at Boston, with a couple of 
glass bottles, and broke them before the congregation, and tlu-eat- 
ened, ' IVuis will the Lord break you in pieces.' Another time, 
M. Brewster came in with her face smeared and black as a coal. 
Deborah Wilson went through the streets of Salem as naked as 
she came into the world. '"^ '• That some provision was necessary 
against these people so tar as they were disturbers of civil peace 
and order, every one will allow ; but such sanguinary laws against 
particular doctrines or tenets in religion are not to be defended.'' 

The year 167") is memorable for a war with the Indians, called 
King Philip's War, "*vhich was the most general and destructive 
ever sustained by the infant colonies. Philip resided at Mount 
Hope, in Rhode Island, and was the grandson and successor of 
Massasoit, with whom the Plymouth colonists had made a treaty 
fifty years before. For a long time previous to the war, he was 
jealous of the whites. His object appears to have been, to imite 
all the Indian tribes to make a combined effort to exterminate the 
colonists, and thus preserve their hunting grounds and indepen- 
dence. The immediate cause of the war was the execution of 
three Indians by the English, whom Philip had excited to murder 
Saiisaman, a Christian Indian, who had informed the whites of 
the plot Philip was forming against them. Philip, to avenge their 
deaths, commenced hostilities, and by his influence drew into the 
war most of the tribes in New England. The Indians, at this 
period, had acquired the use of fire-arms, and the war soon 
became general. Their first attack was made June 24th, upon 
the people of Swanzey, as they were returning from public wor- 
ship ; eight or nine persons were killed. Brookfield, in Worcester 
county, was next attacked, and every house burnt but one. 
During the month of September, Hadley, Deerfield, and North- 
field, on Connecticut river, were attacked ; many persons were 
killed, and many buildings consumed. 

In the winter was the celebrated expedition against the Narragansetts, who had 
given indications of their favorable disposition to Philip. The active co-operation of 
thai powerful tribe, notwithstanding their treaty in July and subsequent pacific assur- 
ances, was seriously apprehended. A thousand men were raised by order of the 
commissioner,? of the United Colonies for this important service. Six companies from 
Massachusetts, with a troop of horse, were under the command of Major Appleton. 
Five companies from Connecticut were led by Major Treat. The two companies 
from Plymouth were under Major Bradford. Governor Winslow was commander-in 

* Hutchinson, vol. i., p. 203 and 204. 



OUTLINEHISTOKY. 25 

chief, by appointment from the commissioners. The preparation and the march of 
this army, the most considerable that New England had then seen, were most prompt 
and persevering. In the depth of a severe winter, they advanced to the attack of a 
formidable foe, posted in a strong position in his wilderness retreat. The attack on 
the enemy's fort, December 19th, (O. S.,) was completely successful. It was a coun- 
terpart to the memorable exploit against the Pequots, forty years before, by the men 
of Connecticut. A day of horrible conflagration and slaughter inflicted a blow, from 
which the Narragansett nation never recovered. Seven hundred of their fighting 
men fell in the action, and it was computed that, at least, three hundred more died of 
then- wounds and from tlie hardships which ensued. Such are the numbers given by 
Hubbard, in his Narrative, derived from the confession of Potock, one of the Indian 
chiefs, afterwards taken at Rhode Island, and put to death in Boston. It was a dear- 
bought victory to the assailants. Five brave captains were slain in the action : Da- 
venport of Boston, son of Captain Richard Davenport, distinguished in the Pequot war, 
Johnson of Roxbury, Gardner of Salem, Gallop of New London, and Marshall of 
Windsor. Captain Sieley* of Stratford was mortally wounded, and lived but a few 
days after the fight. The whole loss sustained by the assailants was eighty-five 
killed, and about one hundred and fifty wounded. Among the wounded were Major 
Bradford and Captain Church, of Plymouth Colony, and Lieut. Upham of Massachu- 
setts. The latter died of his vv'ound some months afterward. J. Gorham of Barnsta- 
ble, captain of one of Plym^outh Colony companies, was seized with a fever, and died 
on the expedition. Church was a volunteer, and, as he informs us in his narrative, 
rode in the general's guard. He pointedly condemns the burning the wigwams in the 
fort, which would have aliorded a comfortable shelter to the troops. For want of such 
accommodation, they were compelled, immediately after the action, to perform a severe 
march of sixteen or eighteen miles, in a cold and stormy night, to Wickford. This 
march was peculiarly distressing to the wounded men. Many of them died on the 
way, or soon afterward. None of them could have their wounds dressed until they 
arrived at head-quarters. — Davis'' Edition of New England Memorial, 432 p. 

From this blow, called the Swamp Fight, the Indians never 
recovered. They were not yet, however, effectually subdued. 
During the winter, the savages continued murdering and burn- 
ing. The towns of Lancaster, Medfield, Weymouth, Groton, 
Springfield, Northampton, Sudbury, and Marlborough, in Massa- 
chusetts, and of Warwick and Providence, in Rhode Island, were 
assaulted, and some of tliem partly, and others wholly, destroyed. 
On the 12th of August, 1676, the finishing blow was given to the 
Indian power, by the death of king Philip, who was killed by a 
friendly Indian, in the vicinity of Mount Hope. In this distress- 
ing war, the English lost six hundred men, the flower of their 
strength; twelve or thirteen towns were destroyed, and six hun- 
dred dwelling-houses consumed. 

In the height of the distress of Philip's war. and while the colony 
was contending with the natives for the possession of the soil, com- 
plaints were renewed in England, which struck at the powers of 
government. An inquiry was set on foot, and followed from time 
to time, until 1684, when judgment was given against the charter. 
In 1686, in May, a commissioner arrived, appointing a president 
and divers gentlemen of the council, to take upon them the admi- 
nistration of government. This admmistration was short, and 
productive of no grievances. In December, of the same year, Sir 
Edmund Andross arrived with a commission from king James, for 
the government of the New England colonies, with the exception 
of Connecticut. His kind professions for a while encouraged the 

* Sceley of New Haven. 



26 O U T L I N E H I S T O p. Y . 

liopes of the people ; he, however, soon threw off the mask, and 
did many arbitrary acts, whereby the people were oppressed, 
and himself and his followers were enriched. The press was 
restrained ; public thanksgiving, without an order from the crown, 
was prohibited ; iees of all officers were increased ; and the people 
were compelled to petition for new patents for their lands, for 
which they were obliged to pay exorbitant prices. The colony 
was greatly disquieted by these and other tyrannical proceedings, 
and the hatred of the people was excited in proportion to their 
sufferings. 

In the beginning of 1689, a rumor reached Boston, that William, 
prince of Orange, had invaded England, with the intention of 
dethroning the king. Animated with the hope of deliverance, the 
people rushed to arms, took possession of the fort, seized Andross, 
Randolph, the licenser of the press, and other obnoxious charac- 
ters, and placed them in coniinement. A council of safety, con- 
sisting of their former magistrates, was then organized to admi- 
nister the government till authentic intelligence should be received 
from England. In a few weeks tidings arrived that William and 
Mary were firmly seated on the throne : they were immediately 
proclaimed with great rejoicings. The people of Massachusetts 
applied for the restoration of their old or the grant of a new char- 
ter. A definite answer was deferred, but the council was author- 
ized to administer the government according to the old charter till 
further directions were given. Andross and his associates were 
ordered home for trial. A new charter was received in 1692 
by Massachusetts, which added to her territory Plymouth, Maine, 
and Nova )Scotia. By this charter, the appointment of the gover- 
nor was in the crown, and every freeholder of forty shillings ster- 
ling a year, and every inhabitant of forty pounds sterling personal 
estate, was allowed to vote for representatives. 

At this period, the French in Canada and Nova Scotia insti- 
gated the northern and eastern Indians to commence hostilities 
against the English settlements. Dover and Salmon Falls, in New 
Hampshire, Casco, in Maine, and Schenectady, in New York, 
were attacked by different parties of French and Indians, and 
shocking barbarities committed. Regarding Canada as the princi- 
pal source of their troubles. New England and New York formed 
the bold project of reducing it by force of arms. For this pur- 
pose, they raised an army, under General Winthrop, which was 
sent against Montreal, and equipped a fleet, which, commanded 
by Sir William Phipps, was destined to attack Quebec. The sea- 
son was so far advanced when the fleet arrived at Quebec, Octo- 
ber 5th, 1690, the French so superior in number, the weather so 
tempestuous, and the sickness so great among the soldiers, that the 
expedition was abandoned. Success had been so confidently 
expected, that no adequate provision was made for the pay- 
ment of the troops. There was danger of a mutiny. In this 
extremity, the government of Massachusetts issued bills of credit, 
as a substitute for money ; and these were the first ever issued in 
the American colonies. 



OUTLINE HISTORY 



2/ 



In 1692, a great excitement was again revived in New England 
on account of the supposed prevalence of witchcraft. It com- 
menced at this time in Danvers, then a part of Salem. Near the 
close of February, several children in this place began to act in a 
peculiar and unaccountable manner. Their strange conduct con- 
tinuing for several days, their friends betook themselves to fasting 
and prayer. During religious exercises, the children were gene- 
rally decent and still; but after service v/as ended, they renewed 
their former unaccountable conduct. This was deemed sufficient 
evidence that they were laboring under the "influence of an evil 
hand, or witchcraft." After a few days, these children began to 
accuse several persons in the vicinity of bewitching them. Unfor- 
tunately, they were credited, and these suspected persons were 
seized and imprisoned. From this time, this contagion spread 
rapidly over the neighboring country, and soon appeared in 
various parts of Essex, Middlesex, and Suftblk. Persons at 
Andover, Ipswich, Gloucester, Boston, and other places, were 
accused by their neighbors, and others. For a time, those 
who were accused were persons of the lower classes. But at 
length some of the first people in rank and character were accused 
of the crime of witchcraft. The evil had now become awfully 
alarming. Before the close of September, nineteen persons were 
executed ; and one, (Giles Corey,) was pressed to death for refusing 
to put himself on a trial by jury ; all these persons died professing 
their innocence of the crime laid to their charge. At length the 
magistrates became convinced that their proceedings had been rash 
and indefensible. A special court was held on the subject, and 
fifty who were brought to trial were acquitted, excepting three, 
who were reprieved by the governor. These events were followed 
by a general release of all Avho were imprisoned. At this period 
the belief of the actual existence of witchcraft, prevailed in the 
most enlightened parts of Europe. The learned Baxter pro- 
nounced the disbeliever in witchcraft " an obdurate Sadducee," 
and Sir Matthew Hale, one of the greatest of English judges, 
repeatedly tried and condemned persons accused of this crime. 
It ought also to be mentioned, that, if we are to credit the testi- 
mony of many respectable witnesses, many things took place at 
that time, which, even in this age, cannot be satisfactorily ex- 
plained. 

The war with the French and Indians, which began in 1690, 
was not yet terminated. For seven years the frontier settlements 
were harassed by the savages, till peace took place between 
France and England. But in a few years war again broke out in 
Europe, which was the signal for hostilities in America. In 
February, 1704, Deerfield, on Connecticut river, was surprised in 
the night, about forty persons killed, and more than one hundred 
made prisoners, among whom were Mr. Williams, the minister, 
and his family. In 1707, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and 
Rhode Island, despatched an armament against Port Royal, in 
Nova Scotia; but the expedition Avas unsuccessful. In 1710, New 



28 OUTLINEHISTORY. 

England, assisted by the mother country, with a fleet, succeeded 
in reducing the place ; and its name, in honor of queen Anne, 
was changed to Annapolis. This success encouraged the com- 
mander, General Nicholson, to visit England and propose an expe- 
dition against Canada. His proposition was adopted, and in June, 
1711, Admiral Walker, with a fleet of fifteen ships of war, and 
forty transports, with an army of veteran troops, arrived at 
Boston, from whence he sailed for Quebec about the last of July. 
At the same time. General Nicholson repaired to Albany, to take 
the command of the forces that were to proceed by land. When 
the fleet had advanced ten leagues up the St. Lawrence, the wea- 
ther became tempestuous and foggy. Nine of the transports were 
dashed in pieces on the rocks, and upwards of a thousand men 
perished. Weakened by this disaster, the admiral returned to 
England, and the New England troops returned to their homes. 
Nicholson, having learned the fate of the fleet, returned with his 
troops to Albany. In 1713, peace was made between France and 
Great Britain at Utrecht. 

In 1716, Samuel Shute, a colonel in the army of the celebrated 
Duke of Marlborough, was appointed governor of Massachusetts. 
For a long period afterwards, many controversies and difiiculties 
took place between the royal governors sent from England and 
the representatives of the people, who were jealous of their rights 
as British subjects. These disturbances continued, with some 
intervals, till the period of the American Revolution. 

In 1744, war again broke out between England and France, 
and the colonies were again involved in its calamities. Their 
commerce and fisheries suffered great injury from privateers fitted 
out at Louisburg, a strong fortress on the island of Cape Breton. 
This place was considered one of the strongest in America ; the 
fortifications had been twenty-five years in building, and had cost 
the French five and a half millions of dollars. The legislature of 
Massachusetts, convinced of the importanceof reducing this place, 
planned a daring, but successful enterprise for its reduction. 
Accordingly, about four thousand men, from Massachusetts,. New 
Hampshire, and Connecticut, under the command of Gen. Pep- 
perell, sailed from Boston for the conquest of this place. Having 
the assistance of four ships of war, under Commodore Warren, 
from the West Indies, the troops arrived at Louisburg, about the 
1st of May, 1745, and commenced the siege. For fourteen nights 
successively, the New England troops, sinking to their knees in 
mud, drew their cannons and mortars through a swamp two 
miles in length. By this means, the siege was pushed with so 
much vigor, that, on the 16th of June, the garrison surrendered. 
France, fired with resentment against the colonics, the next sum- 
mer sent a powerful fleet to ravage the coast of New England and 
recover Louisburg. The news of their approach spread terror 
throughout New England. But an uncommon succession of dis- 
asters, which the pious at that time ascribed to the special inter- 
position of Providence, blasted the hopes of the enemy. Th« 



1 



O U T L I N E H I S T O R Y . 29 

French fleet was delayed and damaged by storms : some of the 
ships were lost, and a pestilential fever prevailed among the 
troops, and the two admirals killed themselves through chagrin 
on the failure of the expedition. The war at this period was 
ended by the peace of Aix la Chapelle, in 1748, by which all pri- 
soners on each side were to be restored without ransom, and all 
conquests made during the war were to be mutually restored. 

Scarcely had the colonies begun to reap the benefits of peace, 
before they were again thrown into anxiety and distress by ano- 
ther war against France. The war actually commenced in 1754, 
though not formally declared till May, 1756. Early in the spring 
of 1755, preparations were mr.de by the colonies for vigorous exer- 
tions against the enemy. Four expeditions were planned : — one 
against the French in Nova Scotia ; a second against the French 
on the Ohio ; a third against Crown Point ; and a fourth against 
Niagara. The expedition against Nova Scotia, consisting of three 
thousand men, chieliy from Massachusetts, was led by Gen. 
Monckton and Gen. Winslow. With these troops, they sailed from 
Boston on the 1st of June, arrived at Chignecto, in the bay of 
Fundy. After being joined by three hundred regular British 
troops, they proceeded against fort Beau Sejour, udiich surren- 
dered, after a siege of four days. Other forts were taken, and 
Nova Scotia was entirely subdued. In order that the French in 
Canada should derive no assistance from this territory, the 
country Avas laid waste, and the inhabitants were taken from the 
country, and dispersed among the English colonies. One thousand 
of these proscribed Acadians were transported to Massachusetts, 
where many of them embarked for France. The expedition 
against Niagara was committed to Governor Shirley, of Massa- 
chusetts, whose force amounted to two thousand five hundred 
men. The season, however, was too far advanced before he had 
completed his preparations, to effect any thing of importance, and 
the expedition was abandoned. 

The war continued, with varied success, till the conquest of 
Quebec by the army under Gen. Wolfe, in September, 1759, and 
the final reduction of Canada in 1760. This event caused great 
and universal joy in the colonies, and public thanksgivings were 
generally appointed. A definitive treaty, the preliminaries of 
which, had been settled the year before, vvas signed at Paris in 
1763, by which all Nova Scotia, Canada, the isle of Cape Breton, 
and all other islands in the gulf and river St. Lawrence, were 
ceded to the British crown. 

After the peace of 1763, the British parliament formed a plan 
for raising a revenue by taxing the colonies. For this purpose, 
an act was passed for laying a duty on all paper, vellum, or 
parchment, used in America, and declaring all writings on 
unstamped materials to be null and void. This act, called the 
Stamp Act, received the royal assent March 22d, 1765. When the 
news of this act reached the colonies, the people everywhere 
manifested alarm and a determination to resist its execution. The 



30 O U T I. I N K H I S T O R Y . 

assembly of A^irginia first declared its opposition to the act by a 
number of spirited resolves : but Massachusetts took the lead in 
this important crisis, and maintained it in every stage of the sub- 
sequent revolution. In Boston, the populace, in some instances, 
demolished the houses of the friends of the British measures, and 
in various waj^s manifested the public indignation. To render 
the opposition complete, the merchants associated, and agreed to a 
resolution not to import any more goods from Great Britain until 
the stamp law should be repealed. To give efficacy to the oppo- 
sition to this act, Massachusetts proposed a meeting of deputies 
from the several colonics, to be held at New York in October, 
1765. Deputies from nine of the colonies met, agreed on a decla- 
ration of rights and grievances, sent a petition to the king, and a 
memorial to both houses of parliament. This spirited opposi- 
tion, seconded by the eloquence of Mr. Pitt and other friends of 
America, produced a repeal of the stamp act on the 18th of March, 
1706. 

The British ministry, notwithstanding the fate of the stamp act, 
still persisted in their design of raising a revenue from America ; 
and, in 1767, an act was passed for laying duties on glass, paint- 
ers' colors, paper, and tea imported into the colonies. These 
duties were small, but the colonists objected to the principle, rather 
than to the amount of the tax, and remonstrated against the act. 
A second association was formed for suspending the importation on 
all goods on which duties were charged. These measures of Mas- 
sachusetts were adopted by the other colonies, and a circular letter 
from Boston had its influence in giving concert and consistency to 
the opinions and proceedings of the colonial assemblies. This op- 
position, supported by petitions and remonstrances, procured the 
abolition of all the duties, except of three pence on every pound of 
tea. The British ministry, finding mild efforts to be unavailing in 
establishing their authority in regard to raising a revenue, sent 
four regiments to be stationed in Boston, to overawe the inhabitants 
and enforce the obnoxious orders of parliament. 

In pursuance of the ministerial plan of reducing Massachusetts 
to obedience, an act of parliament was passed for the regulation 
of its government, by which the powers of the people were abridg- 
ed, and the officers of government were made dependent on the 
crown for their appointment and salaries. By another act, persons 
indicted for murder or other capital offences might, if the governor 
should think an impartial trial could not be had in the colony, be 
sent to Great Britain to be tried. In 1774, the parliament, in order 
to punish the refractory province of Massachusetts, and especially 
the inhabitants of Boston, passed an act to shut the port of 
Boston and restrain all intercourse with the town by water. The 
government and public offices were removed to Salem. But this 
miserable proceeding had no effect but to irritate the feelings of all 
concerned. In May, 1774. Gen. Gage arrived in Boston, with the 
commission of governor of Massachusetts and commander-in-chief 
of the British forces. He summoned the assembly to convene at 



OUTLINE HISTORY. 31 

Salem; but, on further reflection, countermanded the sunmions. 
The counter order, however, was deemed illegal, and the members 
convened. The governor not meeting them, they organized them- 
selves into a provincial congress, which formed a plan of defence, 
appointed general officers, and took measures to collect supplies and 
military stores at Concord and Worcester. 

The assembly of Massachusetts, after a short adjournment, again 
met, and determined to raise twelve thousand men. sent agents to 
the neighboring colonies, and requested their co-operation. The 
New England colonies accordingly sent on their committees, who 
met and agreed on a plan of operations. At the same time meas- 
ures were taken to effect a union of all the colonies, and for this 
purpose it was agreed that delegates from the several colonies 
should meet in a general congress. This body met on the .5th of 
September, 1774, and approved of the opposition made by Massa- 
chusetts to the exercise of the arbitrary power of the British min- 
istry, and stated their resolution to support her in her opposition. 
They published a declaration of the rights of the colonies, one of 
which was an exemption from taxes imposed upon them by a 
legislature in which they were not represented. When the pro- 
ceedings of the Americans were laid before parliament, that body 
declared that rebellion actually existed in the province of Massa- 
chusetts, and they accordingly besought his majesty to take the 
most effectual measures to enforce due obedience to the laws of the 
supreme legislature. From this time an appeal to arms seemed 
unavoidable, and both parties prepared for the conflict. 

The great drama of the Revolution opened in Massachusetts, at 
Lexington, Concord, and Bunker's Hill, and for about a year she 
sustained the first shock of the struggle. On July 2d, 1775, Gen. 
Washington arrived at Cambridge, and took the command of the 
American army encamped at that place. He introduced military 
order, and, with about 20,000 men, besieged the town of Boston. 
Batteries were erected on Dorchester heights, which greatly 
annoyed the shipping in the harbor, and preparations were made 
for a general assault. On the 17th of May, 1776, the British troops 
evacuated Boston, and, embarking on board of their vessels, sailed 
for New York. After this time, the soil of Massachusetts, except- 
ing some islands, remained free from actual invasion. 

In 1780, the present constitution of government of the Common- 
wealth of Massachusetts went into operation : it was formed by a 
convention of delegates appointed by the people for that purpose. 
John Hancock was elected the first governor, and held the office 
by annual election till 1785. The year 1786 is rendered memo- 
rable for Shay^s Rebellion. This insurrection was caused chiefly 
by the oppressive debts contracted during the revolutionary war 
by individuals and corporations throughout the state, and by the 
state itself After the insurgents had held conventions, interrupted 
the proceedings of the courts of justice in several counties, and 
collected a considerable armed force, and thus greatly alarmed the 
government and agitated the community, they were entirely put 



32 B A R N S T A B L E C O U N T V . 

down, and dispersed by the state troops under the command of 
Gen. Shepherd and Gen. Lincohi. 

The Federal Constitution of the United States was adopted by the 
convention of Massachusetts in 1788, by a vote of 187 to 168, and 
the state was a firm supporter of the administration of Wasliington, 
the first President. The embargo laid upon American vessels 
in 1808, and other commercial restrictions, together with the war 
with Great Britain in 1812, bore with severity upon the extensive 
commercial interests of Massachusetts. Maine was a part of the 
state till 1820, and during the war of 1812 a portion of its territory 
was in the hands of the enemy. The war, and the acts of the 
national government during its continuance, were unpopular with 
the majority of the citizens of the state. 

Massachusetts has ever been one of the most distinguished mem- 
bers of the American Confederacy. The spirit of her institutions 
has been transfused into many of her sister states, and she may 
justly claim an elevated rank among the members of this Union. 
During the great struggle of the Revolution, Massachusetts stood 
foremost: the powerful and efiicient efforts of her patriots and 
statesmen, stand recorded on the pages of American history ; and 
the mouldering bones of her sons, whitening the battle-fields of 
the Revolution show her devotion to the cause of civil liberty. 



BARNSTABLE COUNTY. 

This county is the easternmost land in Massachusetts, compre- 
hending the whole of the peninsula of Cape Cod, so named from 
the large number of codfish taken near it by one of its first discov- 
erers. It was incorporated in 1685. The shape of the peninsula 
is that of a man's arm bent inwards both at the elbow and wrist; 
its whole length is 65 miles, and its average breadth about five. 
The basis of this peninsula, constituting almost the whole mass, is 
a body of fine yellow sand ; above this, is a thin layer of coarser 
white sand ; and above this another layer of soil, gradually declin- 
ing from Barnstable to Truro, Avhere it vanishes. In many parts 
of the county the traveller, while viewing the wide wastes of sand, 
is forcibly reminded of descriptions given of the deserts of Arabia. 
Notwithstanding the general barrenness of the soil, the inhabitants 
of this county are in as comfortable and even thrifty circumstances 
as in almost any section of this country. The inhabitants generally 
derive their subsistence from the fishing and coasting business, =* 
and it may be said of the majority of the men who are born on 
the Cape, that in one sense " their home is on the ocea7i" and when 
with their families they are only on a visit, and to a great extent 

* A very general prejudice has existed in the minds of many people living in the 
interior against the inhabitants of the Cape ; this has arisen from the fact, that sea- 
men, as a class, have been considered as more addicted to vice than many others. This 
opinion, as far as it regards the inhabitants of this county, is erroneous ; and it may 



BARNSTABLE, 33 

are dependent on Boston and other places for a large proportion 
of their meats and bread stuffs. The county has but little wood, 
but it is well stored with peat. The manufacture of salt receives 
great attention ; about two millions of dollars are invested for this 
purpose. The tonnage of Barnstable district is 28,153 tons. Pop- 
ulation 31,109. The following is a list of the towns. 

Barnstable, Eastham, Orleans, Wellfleet, 

Brewster, Falmouth, Provincetown, Yarmouth. 

Chatham, Harwich, Sandwich, 

Dennis, Marshpee, Truro, 



BARNSTABLE 



Barnstable is the county town of Barnstable county, and is a 
port of entry. It was incorporated September 3d, 1639. There is 
no particular account to be found of the first settlement of this 
town. Probably there was none made much before its incorpora- 
tion, as but two persons are named in the original grant. " The 
Indian name of the place appears to have been Mattacheese, Mat- 
tacheest, or Mattacheeset. Probably they are all the same name, 
which was given by the Indians to a tract of land which included 
Yarmouth, or at least a part of it ; for in the grant of Yarm.outh 
that place is said to have been called Mattacheeset. The church 
at Scituate being in a broken condition, the Rev. John Lothrop of 
that place removed with part of the church to Barnstable, in Octo- 
ber, 1639, the same year the town was granted by the Old Colony. 
It appears from the records which have been preserved, that all the 
south side of the town was amicably purchased of Wkmno, and 
several other sachems, about 1650. There is reason to believe tliat 
all the north part was likewise purchased of the natives, although 
no record of it now remains. 

The town of Barnstable extends across the peninsula of Cape 
Cod, which is here from five to nine miles wide, and its soil is better 
than most towns on the Cape. The land on the north side of the 
township is uneven, and in some places rocky. There is a line 
of hills extending east and west through the whole length of the 
town, the greatest height of which is about a mile from the harbor 
and marshes on the north side. South of this ridge tlie land is 
generally level to the sea. Barnstable harbor is formed by a neck 
of land (called Sandy Neck) which projects from the Sandwich 
line on the north shore, and runs east almost the whole length of 
the town. The neck is about half a mile wide ; the harbor is about 
a mile wide and lour miles long. The tide rises in it from 10 to 
14 feet. There is a bar at the entrance of the harbor which pre- 

be safely stated, that in no part of the state are the people more moral, or the insti- 
tutions of morality and religion more regarded. The inhabitants of the Cape are 
literally more purely the descendants of the '-pilgrim fathers" than any others in any 
part of the state, as very few foreign emigrants have settled among them. 
5 



34 



BARNSTABLE 



vents the entrance of very large ships. The principal village is 
situated in the north-east section of the town, on the main road. 




North ne'itcrn view oj tht hui i tabic Luart Home and other buildings 

The above is a north-western view of the Barnstable court-house, 
(recently erected) and some other buildings in the vicinity. The 
Unitarian church is seen in the distance, standing on elevated 
ground. A newspaper is published in the village. 

Hymuiis is a village on the south side of the town, and contains 
two churches, one Baptist and one Universalist, and is five miles 
S. E. of Barnstable court-house, twenty-four from Falmouth, and 
thirty from Nantucket. It has a good harbor, and by an expensive 
breakwater, now constructing by the United )States government, 
will become safe from all winds for all classes of vessels navigat- 
ing the sound and passing round the Cape. Oysterville is a settle- 
ment in the south-eastern part of the town, containing one or two 
churches and a postofficc. Besides these, there are two other small 
villages, one called Centerville, (formerly called by the Indian name 
Cliequaket.') the other Cotuit, in the western part of the town, four 
miles southerly from the court-house. There are in the town eight 
houses of worship, two Orthodox, one Unitarian, two Methodist, 
one Baptist, one Universalist, and one for various denominations. 
The manufacture of salt was commenced here as early as 1779 : it 
then sold for six dollars a bushel. In 1837, there were 27.125 
bushels of salt made in the town. There are numerous ponds and 
extensive salt marshes. Between fifty and sixty sail of fishing 
vessels and coasting vessels belong to this town. Population 4,017. 
Distance thirty miles S. E. from Plymouth, sixty-five S. E. of Bos- 
ton, and 46G miles from Washington. 

The Rev. John Lothrop was the first minister in this town, as 



BARNSTABLE. 35 

has been stated ; his successor was the Rev. Thomas Walley, who 
was ordained in 1663; the next was Rev. Jonathan Russell, who 
was ordained in 1683 : Mr. Russell was succeeded by his son of the 
same name, who was ordained in 1712, and died in 1759. When 
the town was divided into two precincts, in 1719, Mr. Russell, 
then minister, being left to his own choice, chose the west precinct, 
commonly called Great Marshes, where he continued till his death. 
In 1725, the church in the east precinct was gathered, and the 
Rev. .Toseph Greene was ordained. Mr. Greene was succeeded by 
Rev. Timothy Hilliard in 1771, who was succeeded by Rev. John 
Mellen Jr. in 1783. In the west churchy Mr. Russell was succeeded 
by Rev. Oakes Shaw in 1760. 

It has been stated '"the West Barnstable church is the^;'5^ inde- 
•pendent Congregational church of that name in the Avorld." It was 
organized in 161.6, in England, principally through the instrumen- 
tality of Rev. Henry Jacob, who was chosen and constituted its 
first pastor. 

" The foundation of this church was laid in the following manner : After solemn 
fasting and praj'er, each made open confession of his faith in Jesus Christ ; and then, 
standing up togetlier, they joined hands and solemnly covenanted with each other, iu 
the presence of Almighty God, to walk together in all his ways, ordhmnces, &c. On 
account of the violence of the persecution with which this church was assailed, their 
pastor continued with them only eight years, and then fled to Virginia, in this country, 
where he soon after died. The church then chose as their second pastor Rev. John 
Lothrop, li'om whom descended most of the numerous families of this name scat- 
tered through our country. In 1632 Mr. Lothrop and the little band to \^hom he mi- 
nistered, when assembled for worship in a private building, were surprised by their 
persecutors, and only 18 of their number escaped, while 42 were apprehended and 
cast into prison. Alter being confined for two years, all were released upon bail, ex- 
cepting Mr. Lothrop, for whom no favor could be obtained. Li the mean time his 
wife died, and his children left in needy and distressed circumstances. At length Mr. 
L., on condition of leaving the country, obtained his freedom. In 1634, with 34 of 
his church and congregation — all he could collect — he came to New England and set- 
tled in Scituate. At that time the churches at Plymouth, Duxbury and Marsh- 
field were all that existed in the country. In 1639, with a majority of his people and 
twent3'-two male members of his church, he removed to Barnstable and commenced 
its .settlement." 

" A large rock is said to lie near the place, around which this colony used to transact 
their ci\nl business and hold their public religious meetings. On that venerable and 
consecrated rock is believed to have been preached the first gospel sermon in this town ; 
and here the ordinances were first administered. ********** 
The first public house of worship, it is supposed, M'as built soon after the settlement 
was commenced, and near the consecrated rock. This rock may be now seen lying 
by the side of the road between west and east parishes." * * * * " It is a fact 
probably known to but lew in this countrj^ that the first Baptist church in England 
under that name sprung up in the original Congregational church of West Bornstahle .' 
From the researches of JMr. Pratt, it seems that one of the members of Mr. Lothrop's 
church, before they left England, and probably before IMr. L.'s imprisonment in 1632, 
brought a child to be re-baptized. A few of the church insisted on having it done, as- 
signing as a reason, their belief that the infant baptism of the child was not valid ; but 
when the vote was taken, a large majority voted against the innovation. Upon this, 
some of the more rigid, and a few others who had become dissatisfied about infant 
baptism, requested to be dismissed, that they might organize a separate church. They 
were accordingly dismissed ; and they chose Mr. Jacie as their minister. These two 
churches were on terms of Christian fellowship, and continued to commune together 
at the table of their common Lord." — Boston Recorder, Jan. 26, 1S38. 

James Otis, a distinguished patriot and statesman, was born m 
this town, (West Barnstable) Feb. 5th 1725, and graduated at Har- 
vard college in 1743. 



36 BARNSTABLE. 

After pursuing the study of the law under Mr. Gridley, the first lawyer and civilian 
of his time, at the age of twenty-one he began the practice at P'ymouth. In about two 
years he removed from this town to Boston, where he soon gained so high a reputation 
for integrity and talents, that his services were required in the most important causes. 
In 1761 he distinguished himself by pleading against the writs of assistance, which the 
officers of the customs had applied for to the judges of the supreme court. His anta- 
gonist was Mr. Gridley. He was in this or the following year chosen a member of the 
legislature of Massachusetts, in which body the powers of his eloquence, the keenness 
of his wit, the force of his arguments, and the resources of his latellect, gave him a 
most commanding influence. When the arbitrary claims of Great Britain were ad- 
vanced, he warmly engaged in defence of the colonies, and was the first champion of 
American freedom who had the courage to affix his name to a production that stood 
forth against the pretensions of the parent state. He was a member of the congress 
which was held at Ncav York in 1765, in which year his Eights of the Colonies Vin- 
dicated, a pamphlet, occasioned by the stamp act, and which was considered as a master- 
piece both of good writing and of argument, was published in London. For the bold- 
ness of his opinions he was threatened with an arrest ; yet he continued to support the 
rights of his fellow-citizens. He resigned the office of judge advocate in 1767, and 
renounced all employment under an administration which had encroached upon the 
liberties of his country. His warm passions sometimes betrayed him into unguarded 
epithets, that gave his enemies an advantage, without benefit to the cause which lay 
nearest his heart. Being vilified in the public papers, he in return published some 
severe strictures on the conduct of the commissioners of the customs, and others of the 
ministerial party. A short time afterwards, on the evening of the fifth of September, 
1769, he met IMr. John Robinson, one of the commissioners, in a public room, and an 
afi'ray followed, in which he was assaulted by a number of ruffians, who left liim and 
a young gentleman, w-ho interposed in his defence, covered with wounds. The wounds 
were not mortal, but his usefulness was destroyed, for his reason was shaken from its 
throne, and the great man in ruins lived several years, the grief of his friends. In an 
interval of reason he forgave the men who had done him an irreparable injury, and 
lelinquished the sum of five thousand pounds sterling, which Mr. Robinson had been 
by a civil process adjudged to pay, on his signing a humble acknowledgment. He 
lived to see, but not fully to enjoy, the independence of America, an event towards 
which his eflbrts had greatly contributed. At length, on the twenty-third f)f IMay, 1783, 
as he was leaning on his cane at the door of Mr. Osgood's house in Andover, he was 
struck by a flash of lightning ; his soul was instantly liberated from its shattered tene- 
ment, and sent into eternity. President Adams, then minister in France, wrote 
respecting him, " It was with very afflicting sentiments I learned the death of Mr. 
Otis, my worthy master. Extraordinary in death as in life, he has left a character 
that will never die, while the memory of the American revolution remains ; whose 
foundation he laid with an energy, and with those masterly abilities, which no other 
man possessed."' He was highly distinguished by genius, eloquence, and learning, 
and no American, perhaps, had possessed more extensive information. Besides his 
legal and political knowledge, he was a complete master of classical literature. He 
published Rudiments of Latin Prosody, with a Dissertation on Letters, and the Power 
of Harmony in Poetic and Prosaic Composition, r2mo. 1760, which has been con- 
sidered the most clear and masterly treatise on the subject ; Vindication of the Con- 
duct of the House of Representatives of Massachusetts, 1762 ; The Rights of the Brit- 
ish Colonies Asserted, 1764 j Considerations on behalf of the Colonists, 1765. — Allen's 
Biog. Dictionary. 

The following inscriptions are copied from monuments in the 
town. 

Here lieth the body of Mr. Joseph Green, the worthy pastor of this church. As a 
gentleman, a friend, a Christian, and minister, his character was greatly distinguished. 
His natural abilities were conspicuous, and much improved by study and application. 
In human and sacred literature he greatly excelled. His principles were evangelical 
and candid. In prayer and preaching his gifts were generally and justly admired. 
Temperance, purity, prudence, benevolence, resignation, devotion, and exemplary 
diligence in his Master's service, adorned his character. His mind was sedate, his 
temper placid, his afliections and passions regulated by reason and religion ; his man- 
ner courteous, generous, and hospitable ; his conversation entertaining, instructive, and 
serious ; a dutiful son, an affectionate husband, and a tender parent ; a sincere friend 
and faithful minister ; greatly, and to the last, beloved and honored by his people. 



B R E W S T K K . 






Born at Boston, 'Jl June, 0. S. 1704 ; graduated at Harvard College, 1720 ; ordained 
12 May, 0. S. 1725 ; departed this life, in assured hope of a better, 4 October, N. S., 
1770, in the 70 year of Iiis age, and 46 of his ministry. 

Think what the Christian minister should be, 
You've then his character, for such was he. 



Rev. Oakes Shaw, born at Bridgewater, 1736, graduated at Harvard College 1758, 
ordained in this place 1760, died 11th February, 1807. Benevolence, atfection, and 
sincerity characterized and endeared him in all the relations of social life. With 
unafl'ected piety and zeal, with unshaken constancy and fidelity, he discharged the 
various duties of the pastoral office. To perpetuate the remembrance of his virtues and 
talents, to prolong the influence of his character, and to testify their respect for his 
memory, this monument is gratefully erected by a bereaved and afiectionate people. 



BREWSTER, 




South-eastern view of Brewster, (^central part). 



Brewster, formerly the first or North parish of Harwich, was in- 
corporated as a town in 1803, by the name of Brewster., in honora- 
ble remembrance of Elder Brewster, distinguished for his virtues 
among the first settlers of Plymouth colony. The first church 
gathered here Oct. 16, 1700, and Rev. Nathaniel Stone was ordained 
their pastor on the same day. Mr. Stone died in 17.55, and was 
succeeded by Rev. Isaiah Dunster. Mr. Dunster died in 1791, and 
was succeeded by Rev. John Simkins, who was ordained the same 
year. The first meeting-house built in this place stood about half 
a mile from the north shore. 

The above is a south-eastern view of the central part of Brewster, 
showing the Congregational church, town-house, and some other 
buildings in the immediate vicinity. There are about ninety dwell- 
ing-houses within a mile from the Congregational church seen in 
the engraving. Besides the Congregational, there are two other 
churches in the village, one for Baptists, the other for Universalists ; 
a Methodist church is situated in the western part of the town. 
The factory village is situated about two miles westward of this 



38 C H A T H A 31 . 

place ; it contains a cotton and several other mills, and, what is 
unusual on the Cape, are moved by water. 

This town holds a central position with regard to the peninsula 
of Cape Cod, being about 36 miles from Provincetown at the lower 
or north end, and the same distance from Falmouth the S. W. ex- 
tremity. The face of the toAvnship is diversified by a mixture of 
hilly and level land. On some of these elevations over which the 
county road passes, the traveller has a fair view of the ocean on 
eacli side of the peninsula ; to the northward he can discern the 
buildings in Eastham at the distance of 8 or 10 miles, and at cer- 
tain seasons the redection of the sun upon the windows of the 
houses in Wellfleet and Truro is discernible, by the naked eye, at 
a distance of eighteen miles and upwards on the county road. 
North of the county road and bordering on the bay, which is the 
north boundary of the town, the soil may be considered in this 
region as good land ; tlie other part of the town the soil is light and 
sandy. This town has 6 or 8 fishing and coasting vessels, and 
does something at the manufacture of salt. A large number of 
ship-masters (in common with other towns on Cape Cod) sailing to 
foreign ports belong here. From a number of ponds in this town, 
a never-failing stream of water is produced, on which are a cotton 
mill, carding mill, and several other manufacturing establishments. 
Population 1,534. Distance easterly from Barnstable 16 miles, 6 
northerly from Chatham, and from Boston, by water, twenty-three 
leagues. 



CHATHAM. 

The Indian name for Chatham appears to haxeheen Montiamoiet 
or Monamoij. In 1665 William Nickerson bought of the sachem 
of Monamoy a tract of land near Potannmaqnvt^ bounded east by 
the Great Harbor. Nickerson also made other purchases of the 
natives of lands in the vicinity at various times. In 1665, Thomas 
Hinckley, John Freeman, Nathaniel Bacon, and their partners, 
obtained from the Plymouth colony court the grant of a right to 
purchase of the natives land at Monnamoit and places adjacent. 
This interfered with the property of Nickerson, who had made 
several of his purchases without authority from the court, which 
was necessary to make his title valid. Hinckley and his associates, 
however, in 1672, for a vtduable consideration, conveyed to Nick- 
erson their grant, which made his title good, and was confirmed to 
his heirs by the legislature. The settlement of the village, or dis- 
trict of Monamoy, appears to have been made not long after the 
purchase was made. It v.^as incorporated into a township by the 
legislature, by the name of Chatham, in 1712. In 1720 the church 
was first gathered, and Rev. Joseph liOrd ordained ; he was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Stephen Emery in 1749, Mr. Emery was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Thomas Roby, who was ordained in 1783, and 
dismissed by his request in 1795; the Rev. Ephraim Briggs was 
ordained the next year. 



CHATHAM 



39 



The township consists of sand hills and ridges, witli narrow val- 
leys, small depressions, ponds and swamps between lliem. The 
soil is rather better than most of the towns in this part of the Cape. 
Great Hill, in this town, is the first land made by seamen coming 
on this part of the coast ; and from this place Nantncket is some- 
times seen. There are 4 churches in the town, 1 Orthodox, 1 Uni- 
versalist, 1 Baptist/ and 1 Methodist. 




North-western vierv in Chatham. 

The above shows the appearance of the principal village in 
Chatham, as it is seen from the ancient burying-ground, about two 
and a half miles distant. Immediately beyond the monuments is 
seen one of the numerous fresh-u-ater jionds in this town. They 
are said to be about thirty in number. By a beneficent arrange- 
ment of Providence, these ponds, containing an article so necessary to 
life, are found in almost every part of the Cape. The Old Harbor 
is situated about two miles from the two light-houses seen in the 
engraving. The village at this place is rather smaller than the 
one represented, but the houses are larger. Chatham is said to be 
owe. of the wealthiest towns in the county. A large amount of 
shipping is oAvned by the inhabitants in other places. Forty years 
ago, large ships used to come into the harbor ; but it noAV has 
become so injured by the sand bar Avhich has been making, that 
only small craft enter. A large proportion of the people are 
engaged in the sea-faring business. In 1837, there were 22 
vessels employed in the cod and mackerel fishery : 15,500 
quintals of cod-fish were caught, valued at §46,500. Twelve hun- 
dred barrels of mackerel, valued at $9,600, were taken. There 
were 80 establishments for the manufacture of salt, and 27,400 
bushels, valued at $8,220, were made. The central part of the 
town is about 22 miles easterly from Barnstable court-house, and 
40 to Provincetown. Population 2.271. 

The following, extracted from a description of Chatham pub- 
lished in 1802, shows the "bill of fare" of the inhabitants of that 
period. 

" Food can so easily be procured, either on the shores or in the sea, that, with the 
profit which arises from their voyages, in which it must be confessed they labor very 



4U DENNIS. 

hard, the jjeople are cuablfd tci cover their tables well with pvovi?.ions. A break- 
last among the inhabitants, and even amoni? those who are called the poorest, for 
there are none which may be called really poor, consists of tea or coliee, brown bread, 
generally with butter, sometimes without, and salt or fresh hsh, fried or broiled. A 
dinner alTords one or more of the following dishes : roots and herbs ; sailed beef or 
pork boiled ; fresh butcher's meat not more than twelve times a year ; wild fowl 
frequentlv in the autumn and winter ; fresh fish boiled or fried with pork ; shell- 
fish ; salt fish boiled ; Indian pudding : pork baked with beans. Tea or coflee also 
frequently constitutes part of the dinner. A supper consists of tea or cofiee, and fish, 
as at breakfast ; cheese, cakes made of flour, gingerbread, and pies of several sorts. 
This bill of fare will serve, with little variation, fur all the fishing towns in the county. 
In many families there is no difterence between the breakfast and supper ; cheese, 
cakes, and pies being common at the one as at the other.' 



DENNIS. 



This town was formerly the eastern part of Yarmouth. It was 
set off as a distmct parish m that town m 1721 ; and was incorpo- 
rated into a town in 1793. The church was gathered, and the 
first pastor, Rev. Josiah Dennis, was ordained, in 1727, Mr. Den- 
nis died in 1763, and was succeeded by Rev. Nathan Stone, who 
was ordained in 17G4. Tlie inhabitants have manifested their 
respect for Mr. Dennis, their first minister, by naming the town 
after him. 

The soil of this town, with the exception of a few small spots, 
is sandy and unproductive. Scargo Hill, in the north part of the 
township, is the highest land in the county, and is the first which 
is made by seamen when approaching the south shore. 

In 1837, the number of '' vessels employed in the cod and mack- 
erel fishery, 18: tonnage of the same, 1,U37; codfish caught, 9,141 
quintals; value of the same, $25,137; mackerel caught, 4.684 
barrels; value of the same, $25,762; salt used, 16.691 bushels; 
hands employed, 247; capital invested, $29,682." It is stated 
that there is more navigation owned in Dennis, than in any other 
town in the county; and a large portion of it is owned on the 
south side. North Dennis, on the north side, was first settled, but 
within the last twenty years the south side has become much the 
largest. There are two organized societies in this part of the town, 
one Methodist and one Congregationalist. The Congregationalist 
society was organized with twenty members, in 1817, under 
the ministry of Rev. John Sanford, the present pastor. Distance, 
8 miles easterly from Barnstable, and by water about 60 miles 
S. E. of Boston. Population 2,750. 

About 60,000 bushels of salt, and 500 barrels of Epsom salts, are 
annually made in this town. The first salt produced by solar eva- 
poration in this country appears to have been made by Capt. John 
Sears, of this place, in 1776. During the revolutionary war, 
many persons here and elsewhere on the coast, applied themselves 
to the business of making salt. The process consisted in evapo- 
rating sea water from large boilers by fire. The quantity obtained 
in this manner was necessarily small, and the consumption of fuel 
great. 



DENNIS. 



41 



The cut shows the appearance of the salt vats which are so 
numerous on Cape Cod. It will be perceived the covers or roofs 
of two of these vats are connected by a beam or crane. Dr. 
Dwight, who visited the Cape in 1800, says, "A Mr. Kelly, hav- 
ing professedly made several improvements in the means of accom- 
plishing this business, obtained a patent, about two years before 
this journey was taken, for making salt-works on the plan gene- 
rally adopted in this region. Of these the following is a descrip- 
tion. Vats, of a number suited to the owner's design, 20 feet 




Apparatus used in making Salt. 

square, and 10 or 12 inches in depth, are formed of pine planks, an 
inch and a half thick, and so nicely joined as to be water-tight. 
These are arranged into four classes. The first class, or that next 
to the ocean, is called the water room ; the second, the pickle room ; 
the third, the lime room ; and the fourth, the salt room. Each of 
these rooms, except the first, is placed so much lower than the 
preceding, that the water flows readily from it to another, in the 
order specified. The water room is filled from the ocean by a 
pump furnished with vans or sails, and turned b^y" the wind. Here 
it continues until of the proper strength to be drawn into the pickle 
room, and thus successively into those which remain. The lime, 
with which the water of the ocean abounds, is deposited in the 
lime room. The salt is formed into small crystals in the salt 
room, very white and pure, and weighs from 70 to 75 pounds a 
bushel. The process is carried on through the warm season. 
After the salt has ceased to crystallize, the remaining water is suf- 
fered to freeze. In this manner, a large quantity of Glauber's salt 
is obtained in crystals, which are clean and good. The residuum 
is a strong brine, and yields a great proportion of marine salt, like 
that already described. To shelter the vats from the dews and 
rains, each is furnished with a hipped roof, large enough to cover 
it entirely. The roofs of two vats are connected by a beam turn- 
ing upon an upright post, set firmly in the ground, and are moved 
easily on this pivot by a child of fourteen, or even twelve years. 
To cover and uncover them, is all the ordinary labor." 



42 



SAS TU AM. 



EASTHAM. 

The original Indian name of Eastham was Nauset. After being 
purchased from the natives, it was granted by the court to the set- 
tlers at Plymouth, in 1644. This included the present town- 
ships of Eastham, Wellfleet, and Orleans. Some of the principal 
settlers w^ere Thomas Prince, John Doane, Nicholas Snow, Josias 
Cook, Richard Higgins, John Smalley, and Edward Bangs: 
these persons are said to have been among the most respectable 
inhabitants of Plymouth. The settlement commenced the year 
(1644) the grant was made, and was incorporated as a town in 
1646. A church was gathered soon after their arrival, but the 
inhabitants were not sufficiently numerous to support a minister 
till 1672, when Rev. Samuel Treat, of Milford, Con. was ordained. 




Ancient Pear Tree, in Eastham. 

The above is a representation of an ancient pear tree, on the 
land now owned by Mr. xS^athan Kenny, twenty-on-e miles from 
Barnstable court-house. It was brought from England by 
Thomas Prince, for many years governor of Plymouth colony. 
Governor Prince removed from Duxbury to Eastham in 1640 or 
1645, and, leaving Eastham, returned to Plymouth in 166.5, so that 
this tree, planted by him, is now probably about tAvo hundred 
years old. It is still in a vigorous state. The fruit is small, but 
excellent ; and it is stated that it yields annually, upon an average, 
fifteen bushels of fruit. Governor Prince's house stood about 
thirty or forty rods eastward of this place. Mr. Treat, the first 
minister, lived about one fourth of a mile to the north-east. The 
house seen in the engraving stands on the site formerly occupied 
as a garrison house. 

This town is situated on a narrow part of the peninsula of Cape 
Cod, and the soil, for the most part, is but a barren waste of sand. 
In an account given of the town in 1802, it is stated, " On the 
west side, a beach extends to Great Pond, where it stretches 



S ASTHAM. is 

across the township almost to Town Cove. This barren tract, 
which does not now contain a particle of vegetable mould, for- 
merly produced wheat. The soil, however, was light. The sand, 
in some places, lodging against the beach grass, has been raised 
into hills fifty feet high, where twenty-five years ago no hills 
existed. In others, it has filled up small valleys and swamps. 
Where a strong-rooted bush stood, the appearance is singular : a 
mass of earth and sand adheres to it, resembling a small tower. 
In several places, rocks which were formerly covered with 
soil are disclosed, and, being lashed by the sand, driven against 
them by the wind, look as if they were recently dug from a 
quarry." There are two churches, one Methodist and one Con- 
gregational. Population 1,059. Distance, twenty-three miles 
north-easterly from Barnstable, and, in a straight line, sixty-eight 
miles from Boston. In 1837, there were fifty-four establishments 
for the manufacture of salt, which produced 22,370 bushels ; 
thirteen vessels employed in the cod and mackerel fishery; 1,200 
quintals of cod-fish and 4,550 barrels of mackerel were caught. 

Mr. Treat, the first minister in this town, was distinguished for 
his evangelical zeal and labors, not only among his own people, 
but also among the Indians in this vicinity: and he was the 
instrument of converting many of them to the Christian faith. 
He learnt their language, and once a month preached in their 
villages, visited them at their wigwams, and, by his kindness 
and aftability, won their affections : they venerated him as their 
pastor, and loved him as their father. In 1693, Mr. Treat states 
that there were four Indian villages in the township under his 
care. These Indians had four teachers of their own choice and 
four schoolmasters. They also had of their own people six 
magistrates, who regulated their civil affairs; they held stated 
courts and punished criminals. There were five hundred adult 
persons in the villages, all of whom attended public worship. 
But notwithstanding every exertion made for the benefit of the 
Indians, they wasted away by fatal diseases and other causes, so 
that in 1764 they were reduced to four individuals only. Mr. 
Treat, having passed near half a century of most active labor, 
died soon after the remarkable storm, -distinguished in the annals 
of New England by the name of the Great tSnoiv, in February, 
1717. The wind blew with violence; and whilst the grounds 
about his house were left entirely bare, the snow was heaped up 
in the road to an uncommon height. It was in vain to attempt 
making a path. His body was therefore kept several days, till an 
arch could be dug, through which he was borne to the grave ; the 
Indians, at their earnest request, being permitted in turn to carry 
the corpse, and thus to pay the last tribute of respect to the 
remains of their beloved pastor. The second minister of Eastham 
was the Rev. Samuel Osborn, who was educated at the University 
of Dublin, and ordained here in 1718; the next year, the church 
being divided into two, Mr. Osborn removed into the south part of 
the township, and Rev. Benjamin Webb was ordained pastor of 



44 FALMOUTH. 

the church that remained. Mr. Webb died in 1746, and was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Edward Cheever, who was ordained in 1751. 
Mr. Cheever was succeeded by Rev. Philander Shaw, who was 
ordained in 179.5. 

The foHowing is the inscription on the monument of Mr. Treat, 
the first minister. 

Here lyes interred ye body of ye late learned and Revd. Mr. Samuel Treat, ye pious 
and faithful pastor of this church, who, after a very zealous discharge of his ministry for 
ye space of 45 years, & a laborious travel for ye souls of ye Indian nativs, fell asleep 
IB Christ, March ye 18, 1716-17, in ye 69 year of his age. 



FALMOUTH. 



This town, forming the south-western extremity of the peninsula 
of Cape Cod, was incorporated in 1686. Mr. Samuel Shireick 
labored in this place as a minister previous to 1700. Rev. Joseph 
Metcalf, who graduated at Cambridge, was chosen minister. He 
died in 1723, and was succeeded by Mr. Josiah Marshall. Rev. 
Samuel Palmer was ordained in 1731, and was succeeded by Mr. 
Zebulon Butler, who was ordained in 1775, and dismissed in 
1778. The next minister. Rev. Isaiah Mann, was ordained in 
1780, and died in 1789. Rev. Henry Lincoln Avas ordained in 
1790 and dismissed in 1823. His successor. Rev. Benjamin Wood- 
bury, was ordained in 1824, and dismissed in 1833. The next 
minister was Rev. Josiah Bent, who was installed in 1834, and dis- 
missed in 1837, and was succeeded by Rev. Henry B. Hooker, who 
was installed the same year. The Congregational church in East 
Falmouth was organized in 1810, and the one in North Falmouth 
in 1833. 

The town is bounded on the west by Buzzard's Bay, and on the 
south by Vineyard Sound. A chain of hills, which is continued 
from Sandwich, runs on the west side of the township, near Buz- 
zard's Bay, and terminates at " lVood''s Hole,'^ a harbor at the 
south-western point of the town. The rest of the land in this 
township is remarkably level. The soil is thin, but superior in 
quality to the light lands in the eastern part of the county. An 
extensive pine forest is situated between the villages of Falmouth 
and Sandwich. There are not less than forty ponds in the town- 
ship, and give a great variety to the scenery. 

The engraving shows the appearance of Falmouth village,- as it 
is seen from an elevation to the westward, on the road leading to 
Wood's Hole. The village, which is one of the handsomest on 
the Cape, consists of about one hundred dwelling-houses, two 
churches, (one Congregational and one Methodist,) an academy, 
and the Falmouth Bank, with a capital of $100,000. The village 
is twenty-two miles from Barnstable, eighteen from Sandwich, and 
seventy-one from Boston. Wood's Hole is four miles to the south- 
west ; at this place there is a village, and ships of the largest class 
can go up to the wharf The landing at Falmouth village is 
•lx)ut three fourths of a mile from the Congregational church. 



MAESHPEB. 44 

miles. Tliis tract was procured for the Indians by the efforts of 
Mr. Richard Bourne, of Sandwich. This noble-hearted man, who 
deserves to be had in lasting remembrance, was a native of Eng- 
land, and soon after his arrival at Sandwich began his labors for 
the temporal and spiritual good of the Indians. About the year 
1660, at his own expense, Mr. Bourne obtained a deed of Marshpee 
from Quachat'issei and others for the benefit of the Marshpee, or, 
as they were then called, South Sea Indians. In order that the 
Indians might have a place where they might remain in peace 
from generation to generation, Mr. Bourne had the deed or instru- 
ment drawn, " so that no part or parcel of them [the lands] could 
be bought by or sold to any white person or persons, without the 
consent of all the said Indians, not even with the consent of the 
general court." This deed, with this condition, was ratified by 
the Plymouth court. Mr. Bourne, after having obtained the above 
deed, pursued his evangelical work, and was ordained pastor of an 
Indian church in this place in 1670, formed of his own disciples 
and converts. He died about 1685, and was succeeded by Simon 
Popmonet^ an Indian preacher, who lived in this character about 
forty years, and was succeeded by Mr. Joseph Bourne, grandson 
of Richard, who was ordained over them in 1729, who resigned 
his mission in 1742, and was succeeded by Solomon Briant, an 
Indian preacher, who was ordained pastor. In 1758, Rev. Gideon 
Hawley was installed as pastor of these people. 

Marshpee lies south of Sandwich, and is bounded on the south 
by the ocean. It is well fitted for an Indian residence, being indent- 
ed by two bays, and shoots into several necks or points of land. It 
is also watered by several streams and ponds. These, with the 
ocean, aiford an alDundant supply of fish of various kinds. They 
formerly subsisted by agricultural pursuits, the manufacturing of 
various articles of Indian ware, by the sale of their wood, fishing, 
fowling, and taking deer. Their land is good, well wooded, and 
some parts of it afford beautiful scenery. There are about three 
hmidred colored people on this tract, and some whites. There are 
but very few of the Indians which retain pure blood of their 
ancestors. They generally appear to relish moral and religious 
instruction. The central part, is about twelve miles S. E. of Barn- 
stable, nine S. of Sandwich, and sixty-five S. E. of Boston. 

The following cut represents the Indian church, built under 
the direction of the Rev. Mr. Hawley, the missionary, and is about 
twelve miles from Barnstable court-house. It stands a short dis- 
tance from the main road, and a forest has grown up around it. 
Public worship is kept up in this house, which is attended both 
by the whites and Indians. Previous to 1834, the government of 
the Indians consisted of a board of white overseers, a guardian 
and treasurer. The office of the guardian was that of a general 
superintendent, to disburse supplies, oversee the poor, and regu- 
late the getting of wood, &c. The Indians getting dissatisfied, 
the government was changed, and it now consists of three select- 
men, a clerk of their own number and choice, and a white com- 



48 



ORLEANS 



missioner appointed by the governor and council. Many of the 
Indians are employed in the whale fisheries, and they are said to 
make the first-rate whalemen. Those who remain at home cul- 
tivate their little plats of ground and carry wood to market. In 
1837, they built a small vessel, "owned partly by some of the 
proprietors of Marshpee, and partly by sundry white persons," and 
commanded by a capable, enterprising Indian. This vessel is 
employed in carrying their wood to Nantucket. The land, except 
some small allotments, (as much as each can enclose and cultivate,) 
is common stock. Each has a certain amount of wood allowed 
for his own use, and he pays the Indian government one dollar 
per cord for all he cuts and carries to market. 




South-west view of the Indian Church in Marshpee. 

The Indian grave-yard is by the side of their church, represented 
in the engraving. Nearly all the graves are without monuments. 
The following inscriptions are copied from two monuments stand- 
ing in this place. 

In memory of deacon Zacheus Popmunnet died 22d Octr. 1770 aged 51 years. The 
Eighteous is more excellent than his neighbor. 

In memory of Flora Hawley obit 31st Jany. 1785 aged 40 years. A faithful servant. 



ORLEANS. 

This town was formerly the south part of Eastham ; it was in- 
corporated into a township by the name of Orleans in 1797. Rev. 
Samuel Osborn, who was ordained at Eastham in 1718, was the first 
minister in this place, removing here the next year after his ordina- 
tion. " Mr. Osborn was a man of wisdom and virtue. Besides 
teaching his people the use of peat, he contributed much to their 
prosperity by mtroducing new improvements in agriculture, and 
by setting them the example of economy and industry. But his 
good qualities and services did not avail him ; for, embracing the 




b 5 



P R O V I N C E T O W N . 49 

religion of Arminius, his parishioners, who still retained the faith of 
(Jalvin, thought proper to dismiss him about the year 1737. 
From Eastham he removed to Boston, where he kept a private 
grammar-school. He died aged between ninety and a hundred." 
Mr. Osborn was succeeded by Rev, Joseph Crocker, who was or- 
dained in 1739. Mr. Crocker died in 1772, and was succeeded by 
Rev. Jonathan Crocker the same year. 

Orleans is of very irregular form, the lines being deeply indent- 
ed with coves and creeks. There are several islands in Pleasant 
Bay Avhich belong to this town, the largest of Avhich is Pocket, and 
is perhaps the best land in the township. The face of the land is 
uneven : but the hills are not very high, and the soil is generally 
barren and sandy, and the roads here, as in most towns in this 
vicinity, are, on account of the sand, tedious and heavy. There 
are 4 churches in the town, 1 Congregational, 1 Baptist, 1 Metho- 
dist, and 1 Universalist. Population 1,936. Distance 20 miles 
easterly from Barnstable and 85 S. E. from Boston. Tliere were in 
1837 fifty establishments for the manufacture of salt, which manu- 
factured 21.780 bushels ; 33 vessels were employed in the cod and 
mackerel fishery ; 20,000 quintals of cod-fish and 6000 barrels of 
mackerel were taken. In the fishery, 264 hands were employed. 

The following is from an accomit of Orleans in the Collections 
of the Mass. Hist. Soc. Sept. 1802 :— 

" Clams are found on many parts of the shores of New England, but nowhere in 
greater abundance than at Orleans. Formerly five hundred barrels were dug here for 
bait ; but the present year 1000 barrels have been collected. Between one and two hun- 
dred of the poorest of the inhabitants are employed in this business ; and they receive 
from their employers three dollars a barrel for digging the clams, opening, salting them, 
and filling the casks. From 12 to 18 bushels of clams in the shell must be dug, to 
fill, when opened, a barrel. A man by this labor can earn seventy-five cents a day; 
and women and children are also engaged in it. A barrel or clams are worth six dol- 
lars ; the employers, therefore, after deducting the expense of salt and the casks, which 
they supply, still obtain a handsome profit. A thousand barrels of clams are equal in 
value to SIX thousand bushels of Indian corn, and are procured with no more labor and 
expense. When therefore the fishes, with which the coves of Orleans abound, are also 
taken into consideration, they may justly be regarded as more beneficial to the inha- 
bitants, than if the space which they occupy was covered with the most fertile soil " 



PROVINCETOWN. 

"Cape Cod, now Provincetown, was originally a part of Truro. 
In 1714 it was made a district or precinct, and put under the con- 
stablerick of that town." It was incorporated mto a township, by 
the name of Provincetown, in 1727, and invested with peculiar 
privileges — the inhabitants being exempted from taxation. At that 
time, and for 10 or 12 years after, it was a flourishing place, con- 
taining a number of dwelling-houses and stores. Not long after 
this period the inhabitants began to forsake the town ; and before 
the year 1748 it was reduced to two or three families. In 1755 it 
contained about ten dwelling-houses. In 1776 there were in it 36 
families, 205 souls, and about 20 dwelling-houses. It remain- 
ed in a state of depression during tlie revolutionary war, but after 



80 PROTINCKTOWN. 

its close it gradually rose to a state of prosperity. Mr. Spear was 
the first minister at Provincetowii, but he was compelled to follow 
the removal of his congregation. In 1774, Rev. Samuel Parker 
was ordained here, and for twelve years received annually forty- 
five pounds from the government. After that period the pastor has 
been supported entirely by the inhabitants. 

Provincetown is situated on the end of the peninsula of Cape 
Cod, and lies in the form of a hook. It averages about three miles 
and a half in length and two and a half in breadth. The town- 
ship consists of beaches and hills of sand, eight shallow ponds, 
and a great number of swamps. Cape Harbor, in Cape Cod Bay, 
is formed by the bending of the land nearly round every point of 
the compass, and is completely landlocked and safe. It is of suf- 
ficient depth for ships of any size, and it will contain more than 
three thousand vessels at once, and is a place of great importance to 
navigation in this quarter. This was the first harbor the Mayflower 
touched at on her passage to Plymouth in 1620. This place has 
about 6000 tons of fishing and 400 tons of coasting vessels. The 
fares of fish in 1834 amounted to about 45,000 quintals of cod, and 
17,000 barrels of mackerel. This place gives employment to about 
one thousand men and boys. There are three houses of worship : 
1 Methodist, 1 Universalist, and 1 Congregationalist. Population 
2,049. In 1837 there were 78 establishments for making salt, 48,960 
bushels manufactured ; 98 vessels were employed in the cod and 
mackerel fishery; 51,400 quintals of cod-fish and 18,000 bar- 
rels of mackerel were taken, and one thousand one hundred and 
thirteen hands were employed in the fisheries. Thirty-five of this 
number went out in the two whale ships sent from this place. 

Provincetown stands on the north-western side of the harbor, on 
the margin of a beach of loose sand. The houses are mostly situated 
on a single street, about two miles in length, passing round near the 
water's edge. A chain of sand hills rise immediately back from the 
houses. These hills are in some places partially covered with tufts 
of grass or shrubs, which appear to hold their existence by a frail 
tenure on these masses of loose sand, the light color of which 
strongly contrasts with few spots of deep verdure upon them. 
These hills, with the numerous wind or salt mills, by which the salt 
water is raised for evaporation, thickly studding the shore through- 
out the whole extent of the village, gives this place a most singular 
and novel appearance. 

The following cut is from a sketch taken in the village street, 
and shows its characteristic appearance. The houses are mostly 
one story in height, and, with their out-buildings, stand along on the 
street, apparently without much of an effort at order or regularity. 
Interspersed among the houses and by the side of the street are seen 
the numerous flakes or frames on which the cod-fish are dried. 
These frames are about two or three feet in breadth, and stand up 
from the ground about two feet, having sticks or slats laid across 
them, on which the fish are laid. The street is narrow, irregular, 



SANDWICH 



61 




View in the Village of Frovincetorvn. 

and has scarcely the appearance of being a carriage road.* Upon 
stepping from the houses the foot sinks in the sand, which is so hght 
that it drifts about the houses, fences. 66c., very similar to snow in 
a driving storm. Although near the ocean on every side, the inha- 
bitants obtain good water by digging a moderate depth a few feet 
from the shore. Provincetown is 10 leagues or 30 miles N. E. of 
Barnstable, about 9 leagues or 27 miles across to Plymouth, and 
about 116 miles by land and 50 hy water to Boston. 

{From the Boston Fast Boy, Feb. 19, 1739.] 
We have advice from Province-Town on Cape Cod, that the whaling season is now 
over with them, in which there has been taken in that Harbor six small whales, 
and one of a larger size about six foot bone : beside which 'tis said two small whales 
have been killed at Sandwich, which is all that has been done in that business in the 
whole Bay. 'Tis added, that seven or eight families in Province-Town, among whom 
are the principal inhabitants, design to remove from that place to Casco-Bay in the 
spring of the year. 

{Boston Fast Boy, My 27, 1741.] 
" Frovince-Toivv, July 14. — On the 4th of this month one of the town disco- 
vered a considerable quantity of Ice on the north side of a Swamp, in this place, who 
broke off a Piece, and carried it several miles undissolved to the Tavern keeper, who 
for his pains treated him with a bowl of punch for his pains." 

The following inscription is copied from a monument standing in 
a dee]3 depression among the sand hills in the village grave-yard. 
It is probably the oldest in the place, and stands in one of the few 
verdant spots in the vicinity : — 

Here lies interred the remains of Capt. John Tallcott of Glausenbury in Connecticut, 
son to Deacon Benjamin Tallcott who died here in his return after the victory obtained 
at Cape Breton, A. D. 1745, in the 41st year of his age. 



SANDWICH. 

The settlement of this town was commenced by quite a number 
of families, from Saugus or Lynn, in 1637. The original grant of 

* So rarely are wheel carriages seen in the place that they are a matter of some 
curiosity to the younger part of the community. A lad, who understooc navigating the 
ocean much oetter than land carriage, on seeing a man driving s wagon in the 
place, expressed his surprise at his being able to drive so straight withtii .'Itie assistanc« 
of a rudder. 



52 S A N 1) W I C H . 

the township was from tlie Old Colony of Plymouth the same 
year. 

" It is ordered" [say the Plymouth Records] " that these ten men 
of Saugus, namely, Ednmnd Freeman, Henry Feake, Thomas 
Dexter, Edward Dillingliam, William Wood, John Carman, 
Richard Chadwell, W^illiam Almy, Thomas Tupper, and George 
Knott, shall have liberty to view a place to sit down on, and have 
sufficient land for three score families, upon the conditions pro- 
pounded to them by the governor and Mr, W^inslow. The other 
proprietors were, George Allen, Thomas Armitage, Anthony Besse, 
Mr. Blackmore, George Bliss, Thomas Boardman, Robert Boote- 
lish, William Braybrook. John Briggs, Thomas Burge, Richard 
Burne, George Burt, Thomas Butler, Thomas Chillingworth, 
Edmund Clarke, Georsfe Cole, John Dingley, Henry Ewer, John 
Friend, John Fish. Nathaniel F^ish, Jonathan Fish, Peter Gaunt, 
Andrew Hallet, William Harlow, William Hedge, Joseph Holway, 
William Hurst, John Joyce, Richard Kirby. Thomas Lander, John 
Miller, William Newland. Benjamin Noye, Mr. Potter, James 
Skippe, George Slawson, Michael Turner, John Vincent, Peter 
Wright, Nicholas Wright, Richard Wade, John King, John Win- 
sor, Mr. Wollaston, and Thomas Willis. Their minister was the 
Rev. William Leveridge. Mr. Dexter and Mr. Willis did not re- 
move at this time." 

The records of the first Congregational church in this town pre- 
vious to the ordination of Rev. Roland Cotton, in 1694, are lost. 
Mr. Cotton was succeeded by Rev. Benjamin Fessenden, who was 
ordained in 1722, and died in 1746. Rev. Abraham Williams, the 
next minister, was ordamed in 1749 ; he was succeeded by Rev. 
Jonathan Burr, who was ordained in 1787. According to tradition 
there were among the first settlers of Sandwich two persons some- 
what distinguished for their religious turn of mind, Mr. Richard 
Bourne and Mr. Thomas Tupper. These men took the lead in the 
religious exercises, and officiated publicly on the Lord's day, each 
of them having his party ; but, as they were in all a small com- 
pany, they did not separate, but agreed that the officer who had 
the most adherents at meeting for the time being, should be the 
minister for the day. In process of time the congregation settled 
Mr. Smith, a minister who for a time had officiated at Barnstable. 
Religious matters being settled at Sandwich, Mr. Bourne and Mr. 
Tupper directed their attention towards christianizing the Indians 
in the vicinity. Mr. Tupper founded a church near Herring river, 
which was supplied with a succession of ministers of his name till 
the decease of his great-grandson, Rev. Elisha Tupper, who died at 
Pokessett, in 1787. Mr. Bourne turned his attention towards the 
Marshpee Indians to the south and east. 

Sandwich is the most agricultural town in the county ; the lands 
however in the extreme part of the township are light and un- 

f)roductive. There are numerous ponds, some of which are very 
arge, which aflord fine fishiui; and fowling : deerKTO also found in 
this vicinity. There arc in the town 1 cotton mill, 1 woollen 



SANDWICH 



factory, a fiirnace, a nail factory, a iiinn1)or of carding-inachines, 
&<3., with an extensive niannfactory of glass. Tliere are 15 or 20 
sail of coasting or fishing vessels belonging here, and a considera- 
ble quantity of salt manufactured. Population 3,579. 




Westerji view of Sanchrkh, (^antral port). 

Sandwich village, containing about 100 houses, is situated on ris- 
ing ground in the northern section of the town, near the waters of 
Cape Cod Bay, 12 miles north-westerly of Barnstable, 30 east of 
New Bedford, and 53 miles south-east of Boston. The engraving 
shows the two Congregational churches, town-house, and in the dis- 
tance some of the buildings connected with the glass worses. It 
contains 4 churches : 1 Orthodox, 1 Unitarian, 1 Methodist, and 1 
Roman Catholic. There are in other parts of the town (") churches 
more : 4 Methodist, 1 for Friends or Quakers, and 1 (.'ongregatronal. 
It has been in contemplation for a long period to unite Cape Cod and 
Buzzard's Ba}?" by a ship canal across this town. The distance is 
five miles, and the land level. The following is from the statistics 
published by the state in 1837. " Nail factory. 1 : nails manufactur- 
ed. 500 tons: value of the same, <^57,500 ; liands employed, 20; 
capital invested, .^13.500 ; glass manufactory, 1 ; value of glass 
manufactured, $300,000 ; hands employed. 250 : capital invested, 
$250,000. 

Dr. .John Osborn, who was a physician in Middletown, in Coji- 
necticut, was born in this toAvn, in 1713. His father, an educated 
Scotchman, was then a schoolmaster, but afterwards settled in the 
ministry at Eastham. At the age of nineteen, young Osborn 
entered Harvard College, where he was noticed as a lively and 
eccentric genius, 
some celebrity : — 



The ibllowins: whalins: song of his has obtained 



A WHALING SONG. 



When spring; reuirns with western <ia\c 

And gentle hn'ezos sweep 
The ruffling seas, we spread our «iiU 

To plouj;!! llie wat'iy deep. 



Fur killi]!? northern whales prepared, 

Our iiiiiihle hnat,-' on tKi^ird. 
Witli enift and rum. (our chief ^e!»a^*> 

And udiid proviaioiis aliu'od. 



54 



TRURO 



Wo Tiew the monslers of Iha deep, 
Great whales in numerous swarm* ; 

And creatures there, that play and leap 
Of strange, unusual forms. 

Cape Cod, our dearest, native land, 

We leave astern, and lose 
Its Hiiikinc clifls and lessening sands, 

While Zephyr gently blows. 

Bold, hardy men, with blooming age, 

Our sandy shores produce ; 
With monstrous tish they dare engage, 

And dangerous callings choose. 

Now towards the early dawning ea.st 

We speed our course away. 
With eager minds, and joyful hearta, 

To meet the rising day. 

Then as we turn our wondering eye», 
We view one constant show, 

Above, around, the circling skies, 
The rolling seas below. 

When eastward, clear of Newfoundland, 

We stem the frozen pole, 
We see the icy islands stand. 

The northern billows roll. 

As to the north we make our way, 

Surprising scenes we find ; 
We lengthen out the tedious day. 

And leave the night behind. 

Now see the northern regions, whers 

Eternal winter reigin ; 
One day and night fills up the year, 

And endless cold maintains. 



When in otir rtation vre are placed, 

And whales around us play, 
We launch our boats into the mala 
And swiftly chase our prey. 

In haste we ply our nimble oars, 

For an assault design'd ; 
The sea beneath us foams and roara, 

And leaves a wake behind. 

A mighty whale we rush upon. 

And in our irons throw : 
She sinks her monstrous body down 
Among the waves below. 

And when she rises out again. 

We soon renew the fight; 
Tlirust our sharp lances in amain, 

And ail her rage excite. 

Enraged she makes a mighty bound ; 

Thick foams the whitened sea ; 
The waves in circles rise around, 

And widening roll away. 

She thra!!hes with her tail around, 
And blows her redd'ning breath ; 

She bre-iks the air, a deaf 'uing sound, 
While ocean groans beneath. 

From numerous wounds, with crimson flood 

She stains the frothy seas, 
And gasps, and blows her latest blood, 

While quivering life decays. 

With joyful hearts we see her die, 

And on the surface lay ; 
While all v/ith eager haste apply. 

To save our deathful prey. 



TRURO. 

The settlement of Truro commenced about 1700. Its Indian 
name was Pamet, and appears to have been purchased in 1697. In 
1705, it was erected into a town to be called Dangerjield ; in 1709 
it was incorporated by the name of Trnro. The first minister, Rev. 
John Avery, was ordained in 1711. He was a physician as 
well as pastor, and was greatly beloved by his people. He died in 
1754, and was succeedecl by Rev. Caleb Upham, who died in.] 786. 
Mr. Upham was succeeded by Rev. Jude Damon, who was ordain- 
ed in 1786. 

Truro is situated on the northern extremity of the peninsula of 
Gape Cod. The length of the township is about 14 miles, and the 
breadth in the widest part three. Excepting the salt marshes, the 
soil is light, sandy, and free from stone. Hardly any part of it 
produces English grass fit for mowing ; and it can scarcely be said 
to be clad with verdure at any season of the year. The face of the 
township is composed of sand hills and narrow valleys between 
them, running principally at right angles with the shore. The top 
of some of the hills spread into a plain : from some of these in the 
northern part of the town but few objects can be discerned but 
the ocean and one wide waste of sand. A traveller from the in- 
terior part of the country, where the soil is fertile, upon observing 
the barrenness of the northern part of Truro, would at the first 



T R U K O 



55 



thought wonder what could induce any person to remain in the 
place ; he will, however, upon reflection and observation, find that 
the inhabitants here, who derive their principal subsistence from the 
sea, are as " well oif " as any people in the commonwealth. 

There are four houses of worship, all in the south part of 
the town : 3 Congregational, one of which is Unitarian, and 
1 Methodist. . Population 1,806. In 1837 there were 39 esta- 
blishments for making salt, of which 17,490 bushels were 
manufactured : 63 vessels were employed in the cod and mack- 
erel fishery ; 16,950 quintals of cod-fish and 15,7.50 barrels of 
mackerel were taken, and 512 hands employed. 




Eastern view of Pond Village, Truro. 

The above is a representation of part of what is called the Pond 
village, and is a characteristic specimen of the scenery of this part of 
the Cape. The hills, which rise in regular and graceful swells, are 
of a light gravelly loam and covered v/ith short grass ; they are des- 
titute of trees and shrubbery, and are peculiar in their aspect. Not- 
withstanding the general appearance of the barrenness of the land 
in Truro, it is believed that all the inhabitants of the town might be 
sustained from the produce of its soil, were proper attention paid 
to its cultivation. The fisheries however at this time bring surer 
and better returns than the cultivation of the earth, throughout 
most parts of the Cape. 

The following engraving is a view of the ancient church now 
standing in the central part of Truro, about 8 miles from Province- 
town, 42 from Barnstable, and by land 109 from Boston. The 
" Clay PoiindsJ' a great body of clay, forming the high banks by the 
light-house, near the residence of James Small, Esq., are about a 
mile northward. This church is on one of the highest elevations in 
the town, a short distance southerly from the Pond village, and is 
seen at a great distance from almost every direction. Provincetown 
■with its hills of sand is .seen to the north-west : and the waters of 
the wide Atlantic on every side. This building shows that — 

8 



K 



WELLFLEST. 




Ancient Church in Truro, (south-eastern view). 

" The dark brown years " have passed over it. It stands alone, and on the hill of 
Btorms ! It is seen afar by the mariner as he passes by on the dark rolling wave! 



The following inscription is copied from a monument standing 
by the ancient church on the elevation near the Pond village : — 

Here lie the Remains of ys Revd. Mr. John Avery who departed this life ye 23d of 
April 1754 in the 69th year of his age and 44th of his ministry the first pastor ordained 
in this place. 

In this dark cavern, or this lonesome grave 
Here lays the honest, pious, virtuous Friend 
Him, kind Heaven to us as Priest k. Doctor gave 
As such he lived, as such we mourn his end. 



WELLFLEET. 

This town was incorporated in 1763. Before this, it was called 
the North Precinct in Eastham, and was originally included in the 
Indian Skeckeet and Pamet. The first inhabitants of the place 
attended public worship at Eastham. When their numbers and 
property were sufficient, they built a small meeting-house, in 
which the Rev. Josiah Oaks preached a niuiibcr of years. The 
Rev. Isaiah Lewis succeeded Mr. Oaks, and was ordained in 
1730; the next minister, Rev. Levi Whitman, was ordained in 
1785. 

The town of Wellfleet is situated on the northern section of the 
peninsula of Cape Cod, and is bounded on the east and west by 
the ocean. The soil is a sandy barren. From the table lands in 
Eastham, to Race Point, is a large range of high hills, all of them 
sandy, except one large hill or mountain, which is of solid clay, 
in Truro, called the Clay Pounds, because vessels have had the 
misfortune to be poiinded to pieces against it, in gales of wind. 
Within these hills in Wellfleet is a range of fresh ponds, where 
sea-fowl obtain fresh water : such as have outlets, receive ale- 
wives, which go up in the month of May. From the harbor 
there are many salt creeks, which are surrounded with salt marsh. 



WKLLFLKBT. 



iT 



The harbor, called the Deep Hole, is good for small vessels, and is 
about thirty miles north-easterly from Barnstable. 




Northern view of Wellfleet Harlots 



The above shows the appearance of Wellfleet Harbor, as it is 
seen from the north. It is surrounded by sand hills of different 
sizes, but mostly forming obtuse cones, smooth, regular, des- 
titute of verdure, and quite novel in their general appearance. 

The village of Wellfleet contains two Congregational churches, 
and is stated to be one hundred and five miles from Boston by 
land, and by water twenty leagues, and from the Plymouth light 
eight leagues. Population of the town, 2.303. Most of the inha- 
bitants follow the seafaring business. In 1837, there were thirty- 
nine establishments for manufacturing salt, and 10,000 bushels 
were made; sixty-two vessels were employed in the cod and 
mackerel fishery; 3,100 quintals, and 17,.500 barrels of mackerel, 
were taken ; and in this business 496 hands were employed. 

" No shipwreck is more remarkable than that of the noted pirate Bellamy, men- 
tioned by Governor Hutchinson, in his history. In the year 1717, his ship, with his 
whole fleet, were cast on the shore of what is now Wellfleet, being led near the shore 
by the captain of a snow, which was made a prize the day before, who had the pro- 
mise of the snow as a present, if he would pilot the fleet in Cape Cod harbor ; the 
captain suspecting the pirate would not keep his promise, and that, instead of clearing 
his ship, as was his pretence, his intention might be to plunder the inhabitants 
of Provincetown. The night being dark, a lantern was hung in the fhrouds of 
the snow, the captain of which, instead of piloting where he was ordered, approached 
so near tlie land, that the pirates' large ship, which followed him, struck on the outer 
bar : the snow, being less, struck much nearer the shore. The fleet was put in confu- 
sion ; a violent storm arose : and the whole fleet M'as shipwrecked on the shore. It is 
said that all in the large ship perished in the waters except twu. Many of the smaller 
vessels got safe on shore. Those that were executed, were the pirates put on board a 
prize schooner before the storm, as it is said. After the storm, more than an hundred 
dead bodies lay along the shore. At times, to this day, there are king William and 
queen Mary's coppers picked up, and pieces of silver, called cob-money. The violence 
of the seas moves the sands upon the outer bar ; so that at times the iron caboose of 
the ship, at low ebbs, has been seen.'' — 3d vol. Coll. Mass. Hist. Soc, p. 120. 

" For many years after this shipwreck, a man, of a very singular and frightlnl 
•spect, used, every spring and autumn, to be seen travellings on the Cape, who wiu 



58 YARMOUTH. 

supposed to have been one of Bellamy's crew. The presumption is '.nat he went to 
some place where money had been secreted by the pirates to get »uch a supply as 
his exigences required. When he died, inany pieces of gold were found in a girdle, 
which he constantly wore. Aged people relate that this man frequently spent the 
night in private hotises, and that, \vhenever the Bible or any religious book was read, 
or any family devotions performed, he invariably left the room. This is not impro- 
bable. It is also stated that, during the night, it would seem as if he had in his cham- 
ber a legion from the lower world ; for much conversation was often overheard which 
was boisterous, profane, blasphemous, and quarrelsome in the extreme. This is the 
representation. The probability is, that his sleep was disturbed by a recollection of 
the murderous scenes in v.'hich he had been engaged, and that he, involuntarily, 
vented such exclamations as, with the aid of an imagination awake to wonders from 
the invisible regions, gave rise, in those days, to the current opinion that his bed- 
chamber was the resort of internals. ■■ — Alden's Coll. Epitaphs, vol. iv. 



YARMOUTH. 

The peninsula of Cape Cod may be well represented by a man's 
arm bent into a certain position. Yarmouth is situated about mid- 
way from the shoulder to the elbow of the Cape. It was incorpo- 
rated in 1639. The early records of this town have been lost. 
In Mather's Magnalia, it is stated John Millar was a minister of 
Yarmouth. It is probable he v/as the first, and a Mr. Mathews 
(of whom some traditions remain) was the second. Mr. Millar is 
represented in the Slagnalia as one of the seventy-seven ministers 
wlio had been in the ministry previous to their embarkation to 
America, and who are represented as some of the first ministers in 
New England. If the above is correct, the Rev. Thomas Thorn- 
ton, from England, was the third minister of Yarmouth ; his name 
being found in the town records, which are preserved as far back 
as 1677. He continued in the ministry till about the year 1692, 
and was succeeded by Rev. John Cotton in 1693. Mr. Cotton died 
in 1705, and was succeeded by Rev. David Greenleaf in 1708. 
The following ministers here were ordained as follows : Rev. 
Thomas Smith, in 1729; Rev. Grindall Rawson, in 1755; Rev. 
Joseph Green, in 1762: the Rev. Timothy Alden, the ninth minis- 
ter, was ordained in 1769. 

This township extends across the Cape, and has a harbor both 
on the north and south shore, and its soil is similar to the other 
towns in this part of the Cape, mostly light, sandy, and barren. 
There are 5 houses of worship : 2 Congregational. 1 Methodist, 1 
Baptist, and 1 for Friends or Quakers. Population 2.454. Dis- 
tance, 3 miles east of Barnstable, and 72 S. E. of Boston. 

The cut shows the appearance of the eastern termination of 
Yarmouth village. From the church which is seen in the engrav- 
ing, to Barnstable court-house, whicli is upwards of four miles dis- 
tant, the road is lined with houses on both sides. From this spot 
the peculiar scenery of Cape Cod may be said to commence. As 
you proceed eastward, much of tiie land is \uienclosed, often pre- 
sentuig to the view, a drearv and wide waste of sand. There are 



YARMOUTH. 



$n 



two cJiurches in the village, a Congregational and Methodist, one 
newspaper establishment, and the " Barnstable Bank,"' with a 
capital of $150,000. South YarnwvtJt is situated about four miles 
south of the north village. In this place the salt-works are very 
extensive, and cover a tract of ground about a mile in length and 
one fourth in widtli. In 1S37, there were in the town 52 esta- 
blishments for making salt, and 365,200 bushels were manufac- 
tured- 13 vessels were employed in the cod and mackerel fishery; 
4,300 quintals of cod-fish, and 2,287 barrels of mackerel taken. 




Eastern view of Yarmouth. 

As late as the year 1779, there Avas a cluster of wigwams about 
a mile from the mouth of Bass river, in the south-eastern part of 
the town, inhabited by the remains of the PawkunnaiDkut Indians. 
About this time the small-pox was prevalent, and the most of them 
died. A little to the south-west of this Indian town., is a pond 
called Swan's Pond : on its north-eastern side, just above a spring, 
about eighty years ago, there stood an Indian meeting-house. 
Some anecdotes are preserved of Joseph Navhaiight^ a very pious 
and worthy Indian deacon, of which the following appears to be 
Avell authenticated : — 



" Deacon Nauhaught was once attacked by a number of large black snakes. Being at 
a distance from any mhabitants, he was, to be sure, in a very precarious situation ; for, 
unfortunately, he had not even a knife about him for his defence. To outrun them, 
he found utterly impossible ; to keep them oft", without any weapon, was equally so. 
He iherelore came to the determination to stand firm on his feet. They began wind- 
ing themselves about him ; in a little time, one of them had made his way up to the 
Indian's neck, and was trying to put his black head into his mouth. Nauhaught 
opened it immediately. T/ie black serpent thrust in his head, and Nauhaught. putting his 
jail's together, bit it of in a 'moment! As soon as the blood, streaming from the behead- 
ed, was discovered by the rest of the snakes, they left their intended prey with great 
precipitation, and Nauhaught was liberated from the jaws of impending death." 



Colonel Joseph Thacher, who died in this town in 1763, was a popular character, 
and through his influence principally a company of forty, thirteen of which were 
Indians, was raised, all except sis or eight, in Yarmouth, his native town, to go on the 



CO BKRKSHIRBCOUNTT. 

Cape Breton expedition, in 1745. A condition of their embarking in this bold enter- 
prise was, that Mr. Thacher should be their captain. It is remarkable that of 
the Indians, three only lived to return, two having been killed by the enemy, 
and eight, probably in consequence of a mode of living to which they had not 
been accustomed, dying of disease ; and that the rest of the company, though 
exposed to great hardships, were providentially all spared to see their native places 
again, and to participate with their fellow-countrymen in the joy which pervaded the 
land, on tht '•eduction of the strongest fortress in America. The following anecdote 
is related of him, by 3Ir. David Matthews, one of Thacher"s company, who is still 
living. It exhibits the unfeeling disposition of the American savage. Through the 
treacherous conduct of a certain Frenchman, a party of twenty provincial soldiers had 
been ambuscaded, nineteen of which were killed. The Frenchman was taken, and at 
first was given up to the Indians, to be destroyed by them as they might see proper. 
Isaac Peck, a blood-thirsty Indian, began immediately to sharpen his knife, and, 
thinking it too good for the traitor to die at once, said he was going to begin with his 
fingers, and would cut off one joint first, then another, and so on till he had separated 
all his bones, from head to foot. He would probably have executed his purpose, had 
not the crimmal been rescued from his hands. One of Thacher"s Indians, hired by 
Colonel Vaughan, for a bottle of brandy, was the first of the provincials who entered 
the grand battery at Louisburg. He crawled in at an embrasure, and opened 
the gate, which Vaughan immediately entered, the enemy having withdrawn from 
this battery, thoughj at the time, this circumstance was not known." — Aldeii's Collec- 
tion. 



BERKSHIRE COUNTY. 

The county of Berkshire is the western part of the state of 
Massachusetts, and extends entirely across it from north to south. 
It originally belonged to the county of Hampshire, or to what was 
designated the " Old county of Hampshire,'" until its divison in 
1812 into the three counties of Franklin, Hampshire, and 
Hampden. It was separated, and made a distinct county, by 
an act of the general court of the province at their May ses- 
sion in 1761, in the first year of the reign of George the Tliird. 
According to the report of the survey of the boundary line 
between this state and that of New York, the west line of the 
county is .50 miles 41 chains and 79 links in length. The width of 
the county on the north is 14 miles, and on the south 24. This 
county is rough and hilly in many parts, but there is a considerable 
quantity of fine land, mostly in the interval of the Housatonic. It 
produces mu.ch wool, and all sorts of grain, and exports great 
quantities of pork, beef, butter, cheese, A:c. It is the most elevated 
county in the state. The Green and Taconic mountains cross it 
from N. to S., the average height of Avhich is about 1200 feet above 
the level of the sea. The Housatonic and Hoosic are the two prin- 
cipal rivers in the county ; the former empties into Long Island, 
between Milford and Stratford, in Connecticut, and the latter into 
the Hudson, about ten miles north of Troy, N. Y. 

The county possesses in rich and inexhaustible abundance 
three very important articles of commerce, ?/-on, marble, and lime, 
and its wood and water power are sufficient to enable it to fit them 
for useful purposes. The following is a list of the towns in thi» 
county, which are 30 in number : — 



▲ DAMS 



61 



Adams, 

Alford, 

Becket, 

Cheshire, 

Clarksburg, 

Dallon, 

Egremont, 

Florida, 

Great Barrington, 

Hancock, 



Hinsdale, 

Lanesborough, 

Lee, 

Lenox, 

Mount Washington, 

New Ash ford, 

New Marlborough, 

Otis, 

Peru, 

Pittsficld, 



Richmond, 

Sandisfield, 

Savoy, 

Sheffield, 

Stockbridge, 

Tyringham, 

Washington, 

West Stockbridge, 

Williamstown, 

Windsor. 



The population of this county by the census of 1800 was 33,835; 
in 1810 it was 35,797; in 1820 it was 35,720; in 1830 it was 
37,825 ; and in the official returns in 1837 it was 39,101. 



ADAMS. 

The tract comprehended in this township was formerly called 
East Hoosic. It was explored and surveyed, and the limits 
traced, by a committee appointed by the general court of Massa- 
chusetts in 1749, and was laid out 7 miles in length from north to 
south and five in breadth. In 1750, Col. Williams, the founder 
of Williams College, obtained from the general court a grant of 
200 acres, on condition that he should reserve 10 acres for the use 
of the fort, and build a grist mill and saw mill, and keep them in 
repair 20 years for the use of the settlers. On the 2d day of June, 
1762, nine townships in the north-west corner of the state were sold 
at auction by authority of the general court. Of these, East 
Hoosac was No. 1. It was purchased by Nathan Jones, Esq., for 
the sum of £3,200, who after the purchase admitted Col. Elisha 
Jones and John Murray, Esq., as joint proprietors. 

These proprietors, in October of the same year, employed a sur- 
veyor to lay out 48 settling lots, containing 100 acres each. A 
line was drawn through the length of the township, dividing the 
best of the land into two equal parts, and on each side of this line 
was laid out a range of lots. E]ach lot was 160 rods long from 
west to east, and 100 rods wide. These 48 lots, occupying the 
valley through its whole length, comprised the heart of the town- 
ship. Four years after, Isaac Jones, Esq., who then resided in the 
township, was authorized to survey a further number of lots, not 
exceeding 20, of 100 acres each, and, as agent of the proprietors, 
to admit settlers to the number of 60. This number was men- 
tioned because it was required by the conditions of settlement, 
fixed by vote of the general court, that when the actual settlers 
should amount to that number, they should build a meeting-house, 
and settle a " learned gospel minister." The rest of the land was 
laid out in 1768 into lots of 200 acres each, and divided among the 
proprietors according to their shares in the property of the town- 
ship. 



62 ADA !H S-. 

During the French wars, the Indians traversed this region, but 
they appear to have had no permanent habitation here. No remains 
of Indian settlements have existed within the remembrance of the 
earliest wlhte inhabitants. 

Most of the first settlers of this town were from Connecticnt. Of 
these Abiel Smith. Gideon and Jacob, his sons, John Jvilbourn, 
his son-in-law, and John ^IcNeil. were from Litchfield ; Reuben 
Hinman and Jonatlian Smith came from Vroodbury. There were 
also the names of Parker, Cook, and Leavenworth from Walling- 
ford; and Rev. Samuel Todd, from Lanesborough, was previously 
from Woodbury. These people settled in the north village. The 
first settlers mostly disposed of tlieir lands to purchasers from 
Rhode Island, many of whom belonged to the society of Friends, 
and the population gradually clianged till nearly all liad sold out 
and removed from the town. The settlements of Friends became 
extensive and prosperous. Several other families, also irom Rhode 
Island, came in about the same time, and these two classes of 
inhabitants and their descendants have since occupied the greatest 
part of the town. 

The first settlers formed themselves into a Congregational church 
and society. Their first minister was the llev. Samuel Todd, from 
North Haven, Conn. The first meeting-house was built of logs, 
and was situated near the center of the tov.'u. The Friends' 
society was formed in the year 1781. David Anthony, Isaac Killy, 
Isaac Upton, Joshua Lapham, George Lapham, and Adam Hart- 
ness, with their families, constituted the societfy at its first organi- 
zation. They worshipped in a log dwelling-house till about 
the year 1786, Avhen they erected a meeting-house about half a 
mile north of the south village. The building lot, with land for 
a burying-ground, the whole containing about four and a lialf 
acres, was given to the society by Daniel Lapham. In 1819 the 
society numbered about 40 families. A Baptist churcli of 35 mem- 
bers was organized in 1808, under the ministry of Elder George 
Witherel. About 1785 a body of Methodists Avere located in the 
south part of the town. The society in the north village construct- 
ed their meeting-house in 1828. A second Baptist church was 
organized in 1826, in the south village, with 14 members, under the 
ministry of Elder Elnathan Sweet, of Cheshire. The present 
Congregational church was organized April 19, 1827. This town 
was incorporated October 15, 1778, and named Adams, in honor of 
Samuel Adams, afterwards governor of the state. 

The natural bridge on Hudson's Brook in this town is a curi- 
osity worthy the notice of travellers. The waters of this brook 
have worn a fissure from 30 to 60 feet deep, and 30 rods in 
length, through a body of white marble or limestone, and formed 
a bridge of that material 50 feet above the surface of the water. 
There is a cavern in this town containing a number of rooms, the 
longest of which, as far as it has been explored, is 30 feet long, 20 
high, and 20 wide. 

The following is a western view of the central part of North 



ADAMS. 



63 



Adams, taken from the western side of the south branch of the 
Hoosic river. The building appearing on the left, is the principal 
one connected with the Phenix factory. This manufacturing vil- 
lage is the largest in the county, containing, it is estimated, 2,000 
inhabitants. It is surrounded by lofty hills and mountains in 
every direction, excepting the narrow interval through which the 




Western view of the Center of North Adams, 

Hoosic passes. It contains 3 churches : 1 Congregational, 1 Bap- 
tist, and 1 Methodist; the " Adams Bank," with a capital of 
$200,000, and a printing-office. This village is about three miles 
south from the Vermont line, 27 miles from Lenox, 5 from Wil- 
liamstown, 34 from Greenfield, 40 from Troy, N. Y., and 120 from 
Boston. The village of South Adams is six miles south of the 
north village. It has 3 churches : 1 Baptist, 1 for Friends, and 1 
for various denominations. This is also a manufacturing village, 
having 8 cotton mills. In 1837, there were in the town, 19 cotton 
mills, having 20,800 spindles, which consumed 799,536 lbs. of cot- 
ton ; 4,752,567 yards of cotton goods, valued at f 334,649, were 
manufactured; males employed, 194; females, 434; capital 
invested, $295,725. Four woollen mills, with 7 sets of machinery ; 
wool consumed, 175,000 lbs. ; cloth manufactured, 215,000 yards ; 
value, $137,000; males employed, 51 ; females, 41 ; capital im^est- 
ed, $86,000. Two calico print works, which printed 4,56L680 
yards of calico, employing 93 hands. The population of the 
town exceeds any other in the county, being 4,191. 

The following shows the appearance of Saddle Mountnin. as 
seen from the Williamstown road about one and a half miles from 
North Adams village. The elevated peak seen on the left is called 
"Grey Lock," from its hoary aspect during winter. It is stated 
10 be 3,580 feet above the tide water at Albany, and is the highest 
land in the state. The other peak of this mountain, seen on tlie 
right, is called the " Saddle Ball." The depression between the 

9 



64 



ADAMS. 



two peaks is called " the Notch," and comprises several valuable 
dairy farms. The "Massachusetts Fort" so famous during the 




North-eastern vierv of Saddle Mountam, {Adams). 



French wars, stood near the barn represented in the fore part of 
the engraving. The following is from the History of Adams, by 
Rev. John W. Yeomans, in the History of Berkshire County. 

About 1741 or 2, Fort Massachusetts was built in a narrow part of the valley 
leading towards Williamstown. This was a part of the line of defence erected to 

frotect the northern and western settlements of New England against French and 
ndian hostilities. The enemy directed their principal movements towards Connecticut 
river. In general, they came down from Canada in the direction of the Connecticut. 
and were repelled by Fort Constitution, at Brattleborough, Vt., Fort Dummer, at 
Hinsdale, N. H., and Fort Wentworth, N. H., further up the Connecticut, all in 
connection with each other on the same line. But some came down the Hudson, and, 
proceeding eastward up the Hoosic, came upon this fortification, and several bloody 
skirmishes took place. They repeatedly appeared in smaller or larger bodies about 
the fort. The following facts are taken principally from the Appendix to the 
" Redeemed Captive," by the Rev. John Taylor, formerly of Deerfield. 

On the 6th of May, 1746, as serjeant John Hawks and John Miles were riding out 
from the fort, they were fired upon by two Indians and wounded. Miles made his 
escape to the fort ; Hawks fought for some time, and might have taken them both 
prisoners, had he understood their language, as appeared afterwards ; for they asked 
for quarters before he turned to make his escape. 

A party of the enemy appeared again at the fort on the 11th of June following, and 
attacked a number of men who were at a distance from the fort, and a skirmish 
ensued. After sustaining the fire a few moments, the enemy fled, having lost one of 
their men. Elisha Nims and Gershom Hawks were wounded, and Benjamin Tenter 
was taken captive. 

On the 20th of August, in the same year, an army of about 900 French and 
Indians, under Gen. De Vaudreuil, made an attack upon the fort. Col. Hawks, who 
commanded the fort at that time, had only 22 effective men with him, and but 33 
persons, men, women, and children, and was miserably supplied with ammunition. 
Notwithstanding these unfortunate circumstances, he defended the fort 28 hours, and 
probably would never have given it up, had not his ammunition failed. He was 
finally necessitated to capitulate, and offered such articles as were accepted. One 
special article was, that none of the prisoners should be delivered into the hands of 
the Indians. The next day, however, Vaudreuil delivered one half of them to the 
Indians, on the plea that there was danger of mutiny in his army, the Indians being 
irritated that they were cut off from the profits of the conquest. The savages imme- 
diately killed one of the prisoners, because, being sick, he was unable to travel. In 
the siege Col. Hawks lost but one man ; while the enemy, as near as could be ascer- 
tained, lost 45, who were either killed outright or died of their wounds. The 
prisoners were carried to Canada, where 12 of them sickened and died. The residue, 
with other prisoners, were sent on board a flag of tnice to Boston, where they arrived 



A L F O R D . 65 

?n the 16th of August, 1747. The chaplain of the fort at the time it was taken, the 
Rev. John Norton, wrote an account of his captivity, which was published. He after. 
wards settled in the ministry at East Hampton, a parish in Chatham, Conn. Another 
of the captives was Benjamin Simonds, who afterwards became a distinguished iaha. 
bitant of Williamstown, and a colonel of militia. 

While the fort was rebuilding, on the 25th of May, 1747, there being several hundred 
people present; an army of the enemy came with the design of hindering the under- 
takmg. About 100 men had been sent to Albany a few days before for stores of 
provisions and ammunition. As these were approaching the fort on their return, a 
scout was sent forward, who, coming within sight of the fort, discovered the enemy 
and began an attack, which gave alarm to the people at the fort, who had not as yet 
discovered the enemy. A few issued out and maintained a small skirmish, until the 
enemy fled. The people remaining at the lort, and the commander of the party with 
the wagons, were much blamed for not affording assistance, and were charged with 
cowardice. In this action three persons were wounded, and a friendly Indian from 
Stockbridge was killed. 

On the 1st of October following, Peter Burvee was taken captive near this fort. On 
the 2d of August, 1748, about 200 of the enemy appeared at the fort. It was then 
under the command of Capt. Ephraim Williams, afterwards Col. Williams, whose 
grant of 200 acres has been already mentioned. A scout was fired upon, which 
drew out Capt. Williams with about 30 men ; an attack began, which continued some 
time ; but, finding the enemy numerous, Capt. Williams fought upon the retreat, until 
he had again recovered the fort. The enemy soon withdrew ; but with what loss was 
unknown. A man by the name of Abbot was killed, and Lieut. Hawley and Ezekiel 
Wells were wounded. In 1755, in the second French war. Col. Williams was sent at 
the head of a regiment to join Gen. Johnson at the north, and was killed on the 8th 
of September in that year, near the southern extremity of Lake George. 

After the death of Col. Williams, the oversight of the fort was committed, it is 
believed, to one Capt. Wyman. He is known to have lived in the house within the 
pickets, and to have occupied the land reserved for the use of the fort. June 7, 1756, 
a body of the enemy came again to this fort, and Benjamin King, and a man by the 
name of Meacham, were killed. The Rev. Stephen West, afterwards Dr. West, 
minister of Stockbridge, was chaplain in 1758, and perhaps in 1757. The location of 
the fort is still indicated by the print of a cellar, and the horse-radish, which was 
planted by the soldiers, arid still grows upon the spot. 



ALFORD. 



This town is of irregular form. It is about 5 miles in length, 
and its greatest breadth is a little more than 3 miles. The south- 
west part, bordering on Egremont, called the Shawenon purchase, 
was bought of the Stockbridge Indians about 1736. The time 
when the settlement commenced is not exactly known. There 
were not many families here before 1750 or 55. Among the early 
settlers were Dea. Eleazer Barret, Ebenezer Barret, Dea. Robert 
Johnson, John and Simeon Hurlburt, and the ancestors of the 
Sperry, Wilcox, Kelsey, Hamlin, and Baker families ; most of them, 
perhaps all, from Connecticut. There were also families, who were 
early settlers, by the name of Brunson, Fenton, Hunger, and War- 
ner. This place has been remarkable for changing its inhabitants. 
The first settlers were Congregationalists, and a flourishing church 
of that denomination formerly existed here. The Rev. Joseph 
Avery was settled over it about 1780, but, owing to the tumults 
which occurred in the Shay's rebellion, he was dismissed in 1787, 
and the church and society soon after became extinct. A portion 
of the people early became Baptists, and about 1787 a number 
became Methodists. In 1817, the different denominations united 



66 B E C K E T . 

and built a meeting-house by subscription, 46 feet by 34, which 
they agreed to call the " Union Meeting-house." The Methodists 
were to occupy it half of the time, and the other denominations the 
other half 

The west part of the town is mountainous. The soil of the val- 
leys is generally good. The people are mostly engaged in agricul- 
ture. Population of the town, 441. The center of the place is 24 
miles east of Hudson, 14 S. by W. of Lenox, and 125 miles from 
Boston. 



BECKET, 



This town was granted to Joseph Brigham and 59 others in 
1735, and a few persons came into the town for the purpose of set- 
tling in it as early as 1740, but for fear of the Indians soon return- 
ed, but not till they had erected a saw-mill in the east part of the 
town, and some other buildings. The first permanent settlement 
was made in 1755, by people who emigrated principally from the 
eastern part of Connecticut. The first settlers were of the name 
of Birchard, Goss, King, Kingsley, Messenger, Wadsworth, Wait, 
and Walker. The descendants of these men, except Goss, yet re- 
main in the town, and those of Wadsworth are, in particular, 
numerous. The first white person born in the town was Jabez 
Wadsworth, in Dec. of the year of the settlement, who, after sus- 
taining a respectable and christian character, died in April, 1826. 

The first church was gathered and organized Dec. 28, 1758. 
Mr. Ebenezer Martin, a graduate of Yale College, was ordained 
their pastor, Feb. 23, 1759. He was dismissed Oct. 12, 1764, 
and succeeded by Mr. Zadoc Hunn, a native of Wethersfield, Con., 
June 5, 1771, He was dismissed in Oct. 1788. The first meeting- 
house of this society was built in 1762, and stood about 40 years. 
This society have a fund, raised by the subscription of 60 indi- 
viduals, (who were incorporated as the "First Congregational So- 
ciety in Becket," Feb. 17, 1798,) which now amounts to upwards of 
$5,500. In 1800 the society built a new meeting-house, which was 
dedicated Nov. 19. Rev. Joseph L. Mills was ordained pastor June 
5, 1806. The Baptist church was organized in Sept., 1764. Their 
first pastor was Elder Robert Nesbit. The Baptist meeting-house 
was erected in 1815. 

The town was incorporated by its present name June 21, 1765, and 
the first town meeting was held on the 5th of the succeeding month. 
The town lies on the Green mountain range. The surface is hilly, 
broken, and rocky, the soil hard and cold; very little clay or sand 
is found. When well cultivated the ground yields rye and corn in 
moderate quantities, but wheat will not succeed. The winters in 
that lown are usually very severe, during which season, high 
piercing winds prevail, yet it is generally healthy, and the lon- 
gevity of the inhabitants is uncommon even in New England. The 
center of this town is 15 miles E. S. E. of Lenox and 110 W. of 
Boston. Population, 957. 



CLARKSBURG. 67 



CHESHIRE 



This town was originally included in the towns of Lanesbo- 
rough, New Ashford, Adams, and Windsor. The form is very- 
irregular, as the line in passing round it takes 21 different courses. 
It was incorporated by its present name March 14, 1793. The 
settlement of the town commenced in 1767. Some of the principal 
settlers were Joseph Bennet, Esq., Col. Joab Stafford, John Buck- 
land, Esq., John Lippet, Samuel Low, Simon Smith, Amos Smith, 
Stephen Carpenter, Shubael Wilmarth and John Wilmarth, from 
Rhode Island ; Jonathan Richardson, Isaac Warren, and Charles 
Saben from Con. The inhabitants from the beginning have been 
generally of the Baptist denomination. There are two houses for 
public worship belonging to them in the town; one at Stafford's 
Hill, and one at the Four Corners. The first Baptist church was 
formed at Stafford's Hill, Aug. 28, 1769. Elder Peter Werden was 
the first pastor, from Warwick, R. I. The second Baptist church 
was formed at the Four Corners of 17 members, under the care of 
Elder Nathan Mason, from Nova Scotia, Sept. 21, 1771. From this 
church was formed a third, of 15 members, under the ministry of 
Elder Elnathan Sweet, Jan. 15, 1824. There is a society of Metho- 
dists in the town, which was formed in July, 1823. 

The center of the town is a rich and fertile valley. To the E. 
and W. of this the ground gradually rises into hills and moun- 
tains. The township is well adapted to grazing, to which the atten- 
tion of the inhabitants is principally given. Large dairies are kept, 
and the Cheshire cheeses are widely and deservedly celebrated. The 
famous Mammoth Cheese presented to President Jefferson, Jan. 1, 
1802, had no small influence to bring these into notice. On a day 
appointed the dairy women sent their curds to one place. The quan- 
tity sent proved to be too great to be pressed even in a cider-mill 
press, so that besides "the monster" three smaller ones were made 
of 70 lbs. weight each. The mammoth cheese weighed about 1450 
lbs. Mr. Jeflerson sent back a good-sized piece of this cheese to 
the inhabitants, to satisfy them of its excellence ; and he also sent 
pieces of it to the governors of the several states. The town is 
situated 16 miles N. by E. of Lenox and 120 W. N. W. of Boston. 
Number of inhabitants 924. 



CLARKSBURG. 

This town is seven miles in length and about two and a half in 
breadth. It received its name, it is supposed, from the numerous 
families of Clarks who settled there. The settlement was com- 
menced in 1769, by Capt. Matthew Ketchum, his son Matthew, 
and his cousins Epenetus, Daniel and Samuel. These came from 
Long Island. Nicholas Clark and his brothers Aaron, Stephen and 
Silas moved in about the same time from Cumberland, R. I. The 



68 D A L T O N . 

town was incorporated March 2, 1798. The petitioners desired to 
have it incorporated by the name of Hudson, from a man of that 
name who was supposed to have cut the first tree in the town 
which was felled by a white man. This man continued in the 
place only two or three months. Why the name inserted in the 
petition was changed, the inhabitants never knew. Hudson's brook 
yet bears the name. 

The surface of this township is uneven, and the soil is hard and 
stony. About two thirds of the town lies on the Bald and Hoosic 
mountains. The mountain land is cold and rocky. Its principal 
commodity is lumber ; considerable quantities of spruce and hem- 
lock timber being annually carried to Adams and Williamstown. 
The people are Baptists and Methodists, there being about an 
equal number of each. Situated 27 miles N. by E. of Lenox and 
125 miles W. by N. of Boston. Population, 386. 



DALTON. 



This town began to be settled about 1755. Among the first set- 
tlers were the Chamberlains, the Cadys, the Boardmans, Gallups, 
Lawrences, Merrimans, Parks, &c. Dr. Marsh, a graduate of 
Harvard College, and a judge of the county court, was also one 
of the early settlers. The venerable Dea. Williams moved into 
the town some years after from Hatfield. He was a leader and 
guide to the people for many years, and an ornament and glory to 
the town. He was a trustee of Williamstown College, and a 
senator in the state legislature. He died March 1, 1808, aged 
74. The town was incorporated in 1784, and named Dalton, after 
the Hon. Tristram Dalton, then speaker of the house of repre- 
sentatives. The length of the township is about 9 miles. The rich 
and beautiful vale of Dalton is in the center of the town. The 
eastern branch of the Housatonic runs through it, and, by a cir- 
cuitous route, encloses as on three sides an elevation of land of more 
than 100 acres in the center of the whole vale. Here are two 
meeting-houses, 1 Congregational and 1 Methodist, and about 25 
dwelling-houses in the vicinity. From this elevation it is esti- 
mated may be seen three fourths of the houses in the town. The 
land is generally productive. Spring wheat is more easily raised 
than in many towns in the county, and the soil is suitable for In- 
dian corn. The meadows on the Housatonic river are not so ex- 
tensive as on many towns below. The Congregational church in 
the town was formed Feb. 16, 1785. Rev. James Thompson was 
the first minister, ordained in March, 1795. The society have a 
parsonage-house, Avith 70 acres of land, purchased by the avails of 
lands lying in the town devised them by Col. Israel Williams and 
Dea. Obadiah Dickinson, of Hatfield. The present meeting-house 
was built in 1812. There are a few Baptist families in the town, 
and a society of Methodists. The center of the town is 10 miles 
northerly of Lenox, and 120 miles W. of Boston. Population 830 



EGREMONT. 69 

There is a woollen mill, and two paper-mills, which manufacture 
paper to the value of between 30 and 40,000 dollars annually. 



EGREMONT. 



The regular settlement of this town commenced about 1730, 
though it is said some Dutch people, supposing it belonged to the 
colony of New York, settled in it at an earlier period. Between 
1730 and 1756, many families moved into the place from New 
York and from the New England colonies. Among the first set- 
tlers were Nicholas Karner, Jacob Karner, Cornelius Spoor, Ebe- 
nezer Baldwin, Aaron Loomis, Josiah Phelps, John Perry, Timo- 
thy Hopkins, Elias Hopkins, Nehemiah Messenger, Benjamin 
Trumain, Samuel Colver, Samuel Younglove, William Webb, Jon- 
athan Welch, Samuel Welch, Robert Joyner, Gideon Church, 
Ebenezer Smith, Aaron Sheldon, Israel Taylor, William Roberts, 
Joseph Hicks, Edward Baily, Abraham Andrews, and John Fuller. 
The township is about five and a half miles in length and four and 
a half in breadth. It was incorporated as a district in 1760, and 
called by its present name. It was invested with full town privi- 
leges, except the right of sending a representative to the general 
court, which right was to be held in common with the town of 
Sheflield : some years after, this right was granted. The soil of 
the township is various, but generally productive. Most of it is 
better adapted to tillage than grazing. The inhabitants erected a 
house for public worship in 1767, and raised money for the support 
of the gospel. Feb. 5, 1770, they invited the Rev. Eliphalet 
Steele, a native of West Hartford and graduate of Yale College, to 
settle with them. On the 20th of the same month, the Congrega- 
tional church was organized, and Mr. Steele ordained on the 28th 
of June following. The people were generally united in their 
pastor, until the time of Shays' rebellion. As he was supposed to 
be friendly to the government, the malcontents became his ene- 
mies and opposers. On one occasion, several armed ruflians vio- 
lently entered his residence in the night, and, after treating him in 
an insolent and abusive manner, took away his watch and various 
articles of clothing. Difiiculties continuing to increase, Mr. Steele 
was dismissed by a council on the 29th of April, 1794, and removed 
into the state of New York. The church gradually decreased by 
deaths and removals until 1814, when it was considered to be 
extinct. In 181 6, the present Congregational church was organized. 
It was begun with 14 members. Rev. Gardner Hayden was ordain- 
ed their pastor Nov. 23, 1820. A Baptist church was formed in the 
north part of this town in 1787 ; the society obtained their act of 
incorporation in 1808, and in 1817 erected their meeting-house. 
There is a Methodist society in the south-west part of the town, 
who hold their meetings in a school-house. This town is 15 miles 
southerly of Lenox, and 128 W. of Boston. Population, 968. 



70 GREATBARRINGTON. 

FLORIDA. 

This town began to be settled about 1783. Dr. Daniel Nelson 
settled in it in that year, and in the course of two years he was 
joined by Paul Knowlton, Sylvanus Clark, Nathan Drury, Esq., 
Jesse King, Esq., and Stephen Staples. Soon after 1795 there was 
a considerable accession of inhabitants. The length of the town- 
ship on an average may be about 4 miles. It was incorporated in 
1805. It being situated on the height of the Green mountain 
range, the surface is broken and the climate cold and severe. The 
people derive their support chiefly from their stock and dairies. A 
Congregational church was formed May 4, 1814, consisting of 11 
members. A Baptist church was organized in 1810, with about 
20 members. Their meeting-house was built in 1824. There are 
a few Methodists in the town, living mostly on Deerfield river. 
Situated 27 miles N. N. E. of Lenox, and 120 W. by N. of Boston. 
Number of inhabitants 457. 



GREAT BARRINGTON. 

The settlement of this town commenced about 1730. The 
lower part of it was settled in connection with Sheffield. Some 
families it is said were located above the bridge before 1730. Of 
these were Laurens and Sydney Suydam (supposed to have been 
brothers), from Poughkeepsie, N. Y. Some of the first settlers were 
Dutch, others were English. Among the latter were Joshua White, 
Moses IngersoU, Moses and William King, Thomas Dewey, Heze- 
kiah Phelps, Israel Orton, and Joshua Root. 

This town is formed of parts of the upper and lower Housatonic townships, sur- 
veyed by authority of the general court in 1736. There were 30 proprietors of the 
upper Housatonic township. House or home lots were laid out for them on both 
sides of the river from the bridge to Monument mountain. Here improvements were 
begun. From the house lots, long parallel lots were laid out to Tyringhara line. 
The Hop lands (so called), in the north-east part of the town, in the region of Hop brook, 
were laid out in a similar manner. The land on Monument mountain and part of the 
north plain was laid out in equalizing lots, that is, in lots so proportioned as to render 
the preceding divisions equal to the particular right of each individual. The tract em- 
braced in the present town was formed into a parish about 1740, and called the second 
parish of Sheffield. In 17(J1 it was selected as the seat of justice for the county of 
Berkshire, and in the course of that year it was incorporated a town by the present 
name. County buildings were afterwards erected in the town, and courts held here till 
1787, when they were removed to Lenox. The town is about 7 miles in length, and 
fi in breadth. About 1755, in the second French war, a block-house was built, about 
a mile above the bridge on the west side of the river, as a place of security to which 
the inhabitants might flee in case of an attack. 

In 1743 (when there were only 30 families in the place) the 
people employed the Rev. Samuel Hopkins, afterwards Dr. Hop- 
kins, to preach with them, and after a short trial settled him the 
same year in the ministry. He was ordained the 28th of Dec, on 
which day the church was organized. He was dismissed at his 
own request on the 18th of Jan. 1769. 



GKEATBARRINGTON. 71 

He was born at Waterbury, Con., and was a direct lineal descendant of Stephen Hop- 
kins, one of the pilgrims who landed at Plymouth in Dec. 1620. He graduated at 
Yale College in 1741, and studied theology with the first President Edwards, then 
minister at Northampton. His mental powers were strong, and fitted him for 
deep and thorough investigation. While at Great Barrington, and Newport, R. I., 
(where he settled after he left Mass.) he published a number of sermons and books 
on subjects of doctrine Avhich excited considerable controversy. In 1793 he pub- 
lished his System of Divinity, the sentiments advocated in which were highly Calvin- 
istic, and are generally termed Hopkinsinian. 

The village of Great Barrington, which extends about three 
fourths of a mile on the western borders of the Housatonic, con- 
sists of upwards of 50 dwelling-houses, 2 churches, 1 Episcopal 
and 1 Congregationalist, a printing-office, and various mechanic 
shops. The village is weM built, and deeply shaded by elms and 
other trees. It is 6 miles from Sheffield, 14 south of Lenox, 25 
eastward from Hudson, and 125 from Boston. In 1837 there were 
in the town 4 cotton mills, which consumed 170,000 lbs. of cotton ; 
920,000 yards of cotton goods manufactured, valued at $64,600 ; 
there were 2 woollen mills, which consumed 32,000 lbs. of wool, and 
52,500 yards of cloth manufactured. There were in the town 
2,657 merino sheep, which produced 6,642 lbs. of wool, the value of 
which was $3,321 ; one furnace for the manufacture of pig iron, 
employing 20 hands ; ISO tons of pig iron were made, valued at 
$7,200. Population, 2,440. 

The Episcopal society in this town was formed about the 
year 1760. The church was instituted by the Rev. Solomon 
Palmer, then a missionary at Litchfield and New Milford, Con., 
from the society in England for propagating religion in foreign 
parts. The society have a parsonage-house and lands, and besides 
the church they have a chapel in Van Deusenville to accommodate 
the people in the north part of the society. The Congregational 
and Episcopal societies were incorporated by the legislature in 
1791, There are some Methodist people in town, who mostly 
reside in the east and north-east parts. 

The most noted mountain in this section of country is Monu- 
ment mountain, in the north part of this town, which rises up 
directly from the east bank of the Housatonic, and extends into 
Stockbridge. The engraving shows the appearance of this, as it 
is seen from the south-east on the road towards Stockbridge. It 
derived its name from a rude monument of stones on the south- 
eastern point, a short distance from the county road, which it is to 
be regretted is now demolished. The pile was six or eight feet in 
diameter, circular at its base, and raised in the form of an obtuse 
cone over the grave of one of the aborigines. It was a custom of 
the Indians whenever an individual passed by the tomb of his 
countryman to cast a stone upon it. By this slow method of accu- 
mulation, the heap in question rose in a series of years to the size 
just mentioned. According to tradition " the person buried here 
was a female, who had thrown herself from the cliffs of the moun- 
tain through the influence of a passionate love for a cousin, whom 
the religion of the natives would not allow her to marry, because 

10 



72 



GREAT BARRINOTON 




Sovth-faitirn virn- nf Monummt Mountain. 

the connection was deemed incestuous." Some ^^-ears since a poem 
was written on this tradition, entitled Monument Mouniain, by- 
William C. Bryant, a native of Cnmmington, then an inhabitant 
of this town. The following extract from the first part of the poem 
correctly delineates the scenery of this mountain, and in most re- 
spects the description is equally applicable to much of the mountain 
scenery in the western part of the state. 



Thou who woTildst see the lovely and the wild 

Mingled in harmony on Nature's face, 

Ascend our rocky mountain. Let thy foot 

Fail not with weariness, for on their tops 

The beauty and the majesty of earth 

Spread wide beneath shall make thee to forget 

The steep and toilsome way. There as thou stand'sl, 

The haunts of men below thee, and above 

The mouniain summits, thy expanded heart 

Shall feel a kindred with that loftier world 

To which thou art translated, and partake 

The enlargement of thy vislim. Thou alialt look 

Upon the green and rolling forest tops, 

And down into the secrets of the glen 

And streams, that with their bordering thicket-i strive 

To hide their windings. Thou slialt gaze at once 

Here on while villages, and tilth and herds, 

And swarming roads, and there on solitudes, 

That only hear the torrent and the wind 

And eagle's sliriek. There is a precipice 

That seems a fraement of some mighty wall 

Built by the hand that fashioned the old world 

To separate its natioi\«, and thrown down 

When the flood drowned (hem. To the north a path 



Conducts you up the narrow biittlement. 

Steep Is the western side, shaggy and wild, 

With mossy trees and pinnacles of flint, 

And many a hanging crag. But to the ea^t 

Sheer to the vale go down the bare old clitTs, — 

Huge pillars, that in middle heaven uprear; 

Their weather-beaten capitals here dark 

Witli the thick moss of centuries, and there 

Of chalky whiteness, where the thunderbolt 

Has splinler'd them. It is a fearful thing 

To stand upon a beetling verge and see 

Where storms and lightning from the huge gray wall 

Have tumbled down vast blocks, and at i^he base 

Dashed them in fragments, and to lay thine ear 

Over the dizzy depth, and hear the sound 

Of winds, that struggle with the woods below', 

Come up like ocean murmm-s. But ihe scene 

Is lovely round ; a beautiful river there 

Wanders amid the fresh and fertile meads, 

The paradise he made unto himself. 

Mining the soil for ages. On each side 

The fields swell upward to the hills; beyond, 

Above the hill, in the blue distance, rise 

The mighty columns with which earth props heaven. 



That there were anciently Indian settlements in this town, is evident from various 
circumstances. In addition to utensils and weapons of Indian manufacture, which 
have been often found, it is known that, as early as 1726, the river used to be cros.sed 
half a mile below the bridge, at what was then called the " Great Wigwam." This 
place was sometimes called the " Castle," or rather, perhaps, the great wigwam stand- 
mg upon it. There is also a tradition that there was a considerable Indian settlement 
at this spot. Indian graves have also been found three fourths of a mile above the 
bridge, on the east side of the river. One man, in digging thirteen post-holes to secure 
his barn-yard, discovered the remains of six bodies. 

This settlement must have been abandoned before the autumn of 1734 ; for at that 
time there were no Indians in the county, except at Stockbridge and Sheffield, and 
perhaps a family or two in New Marlborough. But in the two -winters following, the 



HANCOCK. 73 

Indians were collected from Stockbridge and Sheffield, somewhere in this town, for the 
purpose of receiving instruction more conveniently from the missionary and school- 
master sent among them, previous to the final establishment of the mission in Stock- 
bridge. They may have been collected at the Great Wigwam, but were probably 
further north. 

' The following circumstance is related by Dr. Dwight as having 
occurred at the great bridge in this town. It is too remarkable 
not to be introduced here. 

" A Mr. Van Rensselaer, a young gentleman from Albany, came one evening into 
an inn, kept by a Mr. Root, just at the eastern end of the bridge. The inn-keeper, 
who knew him, asked him where he had crossed the river. He answered, ' On the 
bridge.' Mr. Root replied, that that was impossible, because it had been raised that 
very day, and that not a plank had been laid on it. Mr. Van Rensselaer said that it 
could not be true, because his horse had come over without any difhculty or reluctance ; 
that the night was indeed so profoundly dark as to prevent him fi'om seeing anything 
distinctly ; but that it was incredible, if his horse could see sufficiently well to keep his 
footing anywhere, that he should not discern the danger, and impossible for him to 
pass over the bridge in that condition. Each went to bed dissatisfied, neither believ- 
ing the story of the other. In the morning, Mr. Van Rensselaer went, at the solicita- 
tion of his host, to view the bridge, and, finding it a naked frame, gazed for a moment 
with astonishment, and fainted." 



HANCOCK. 



The first and principal grant in this town was made by the 
legislature, in 1760, to Asa Douglass, Esq., and Timothy Hurl- 
bur t, of Canaan, Con., Col. John Ashley of Sheffield, and Josiah 
Dean. The first grantee became a settler in April 1762, with 
whom were soon associated John Clothier, Jesse Squire, Amasa 
and Martin Johnson, Benjamin Davis, Samuel Grippen, David 
Sprague, Samuel Hand, Esq., Capt. Caleb Gardner, David 
Vaughan, Reuben Ely, Henry Hazard and Jonathan Hazard, Esq. 
They were mostly from Connecticut and Rhode Island, and settled 
about the north village, and northward towards Williamstown. 

In 1761, Charles Goodrich, Esq., of Fittsfield, obtained a grant of land on the south 
end of the town, and in 1764 his nephew Daniel Goodrich settled upon it; and the 
following year Benjamin Goodrich, the father of Daniel, settled there, with all his other 
sons, viz. Benjamin, Samuel, Nathan, David, Ezekiel, Isaiah, Hezekiah, Jeremiah, 
and Enoch. Jeremiah and Hezekiah Osborn, father and son, and Israel Talcot, settled 
there about the same time The Goodriches and Osborns were from Ridgfield— Talcot 
from Wethersfield, Con. Soon after the grant to Charles Goodrich, small grants 
were made in the north part of the town to Dea. Samuel Brown, of Stockbridge, and 
Col. Farrington. The remainder of the town was sold by a committee of the general 
court to the actual settlers in 1789, at different prices per acre, according to the quality. 
The place was first called Jericho, on account of the high natural walls on each side, 
that is, the mountains. At the time of its incorporation in 1776, it was named Hancock 
m honor oi John Hancock, then president of the continental congress, and afterwards 
governor of the state. The township is nearly 16 miles in length, and about two in 
breadth. It was formerly wider, but when the line was finally established between 
Massachusetts and New York, in 1787, a tier of fine lots, upward of half a mile in 
length, were thrown into the latter state. A narrow valley extends south about 7 
miles from the line of Williamstown to the north village of Hancock, along which is a 
succession of good farms extending from the valley to the right and left on to the sides 
of the mountains. For several miles south from this village, the township is so 
broken and mountainous that no highway has been cut through it. 

The Shakers have a village in the .south-east part of the town, 



74 



HANCOCK 



which extends into the edge of Pittsfield. They sprung up in this 
town about 1780. Some persons about that time began to visit 
mother Ann and the elders at Escuania, near Albany. Approv- 
ing of the tenents of the Shakers, they immediately set up their 
meetings according to the customs of that sect. They built their 
meetinff-house in 1784. 




Sliaker Village in Hancock. 

The above is a view of some of the principal buildings in the 
Shaker village, which is 4 miles from Pittsfield, 7 from Lenox, 
and 5 from New Lebanon Springs. The large three-story build- 
ing seen in the central part of the engraving is constructed of 
brick, is 102 feet long, and 53 feet wide. There are six families, 
as they are termed, in the settlement, containing in the whole 
about 130 or 40 persons. The circular stone barn seen in the 
engraving in distance, a short distance southerly from the three- 
story building, was built in 1826, and is something of a curiosity. 
" It is 270 feet in compass, with walls laid in lime, rising 21 feet 
above the underpinning, and from three and a half to two and a half 
feet in thickness. The mast and rafters are 53 feet in length, and 
united together at the top. On the lower floor, immediateiy with- 
in the walls, are stables, 8 feet high, occupying 12 feet in length, 
with the manger, which is inwards, and into which convenient 
places are left for throwing hay and feed from above. In these 
stables, which open to and from several yards, a span of horses and 
52 horned cattle may be stabled. The covering of the stables forms 
the barn floor, on to which from an offset there is but one large 
doorway for teams, which make the circuit of the floor, and pass 
out at the same place. Eight or ten can occupy the floor at the 
same time ; and the hay is thrown into the large area in the center. 
For simply laying the stone of this building the masons were paid 
500 dftliars and boarded." 

Most of the inhabitants of the town have ever been of the Bap- 
,f,ist denomination. A congregation was early formed, which held 



HINSDALE. 75 

their meetings for a time in a log house about a mile and a quar- 
ter above the north village. Their present meeting-house was 
built in 1797. Elder Clark Rogers, from R. I., was their first 
minister, and was settled over them in about 1770. The town is 
15 miles N. by W. of Lenox, and 129 W. of Boston. Population, 
975. Agricnlture is the principal business of the inhabitants. 



HINSDALE. 



The settlement of this town was commenced about the close of 
the second French war, probably in the year 1762. The first who 
settled in the town were Francis, David, and Thomas Miller, 
brothers, from Middlebury. Francis Miller was a man of conside- 
rable note. He was employed as a surveyor by the government, 
and surveyed the road from Boston to Albany, and run the line 
between Massachusetts and New York. Other of the first settlers 
were Nathan and Wilson Torrey, from Rhode Island, and Joseph 
Watkins and 5 sons from Hopkinton. About 1771, Nathan Fisk, 
who was among the first settlers, built a grist and saw mill, for 
which he received a premium from the government of 250 acres 
of land. In 1774 and 75 Nathaniel Tracy, Abner Bixbe, James 
Wing, and two families by the name of Frost, settled in the town. 
In 1781 Richard Starr, from Groton, Con., came into the town, and 
was of great service to the religious interests of the people. 

This town originally belonged to Peru on the east aiid Dalton on 
the west. In 1795 they Avere incorporated as a parish, by the name 
of the west parish of Partridgefield (now Peru), and in 1804 they 
were mvested with town privileges and incorporated by the name 
of Hinsdale. In the year first mentioned the Rev. Theodore Hins- 
dale, after whom the town was named, (came from Windsor, Con.) 
and settled in the part of the town which then belonged to Dalton, 
and was very active, in connection with Dea. Starr, in gathering 
and organizing a Congregational church. This church was 
formed in Dec. of that year, consisting of 23 members. In 
1797 a Baptist church was formed, of which Elder Eleazer Smith 
was the first minister. They have a meeting-house, built in 1818. 
There are 3 churches in the center of the town, 1 Congregational, 
I Baptist, and 1 Methodist. 

This township is situated on the west side of the Green moun- 
tain range, and is 7 miles in length, and from 3 to 4 in breadth. 
It is 15 miles N. N. E. of Lenox and 124 W. of Boston. Population 
832. In 1837 there were 2 woollen mills, which consumed 57,000 
lbs. of wool ; 25,000 yards of cloth were manufactured, valued at 
$74,000. There were 2,000 Saxony and 8,920 merino sheep, and 
the value of the wool produced in the town was $19,266. 



76 



LANESBOROUGH. 



LANESBOROUGH 




Southern view of Lauesburough. 

In January, 1741, Samuel Jackson, with seventy-five others, 
inhabitants of Framingham, Middlesex Co., petitioned the general 
court to grant them a tract of wilderness land, situated near an 
Indian town on the Housatonic river. The grant Avas made, and 
they were authorized to survey and locate a township, which was 
done the same year. The settlement was commenced about 1754 
or 5, by Capt. Samuel Martin and two other families, which were 
driven off by the Indians in the second French war. Of these, 
Capt. Martin was the only one who returned. Among the earliest 
settlers were Nathaniel Williams, Samuel Tyrrell, John, Ephraim, 
Elijah and Miles Powel (brothers), Lieut. Andrew Squier, James 
Loomis and Ambrose Hall, William Bradley, James Goodrich, 
Thaddeus Curtiss, Ebenezer Squier, Benjamin and Joseph Farnum. 
They all settled here as early as 1760. A fort was built for the 
protection of the settlement from Indian assaults. On the approach 
of the Indians, on one occasion, the settlers fled to Pittsficld. A 
scout was sent after them from Massachusetts fort, who, following 
tracks which they found, discovered two Indian chiefs, who were 
stooping down, tying their moccasons. Each of the scouts selected 
one, and both chiefs were killed on the spot. The scouts escaped 
to the fort, though closely pursued by the Indians. A party 
shortly after set out from the fort in search of the bodies of the 
slain chiefs, who found them buried in their war costume. The 
town was incorporated on the 20th of June, 1765, and then com- 
prehended a large part of the present town of Cheshire. The pre- 
sent length of the town is 6 miles, and the average breadth about 
5 miles. There are beds of iron ore in the town, and several 
extensive quarries of valuable marble. 

The above shows the appearance of the village of Lanesborough 
AS it is entered from the south. It is situated on the eastern side 



LEE. 77 

of a branch of the Hoiisatoiiic, which passes through the central 
part of the town, and runs through Lanesborough Pond, which hes 
partly in this town and Pittsfield. The meadows on this stream 
are hixuriant and beautiful. There are 3 churches : 1 Congrega- 
tional, 1 Baptist, and 1 Episcopal. The Congregational church is 
the one seen in the central part of the engraving ; the Baptist is 
the one standing a little south. The Episcopal church, a Gothic 
building, stands about three fourths of a mile northward. 

The Congregational church in this town was organized March 
28th, 1764, by Rev. Samuel Hopkins, of Great Barrington, and 
Rev. Stephen West, of Stockbridge. It consisted at first of eight 
members. Their first pastor. Rev. Daniel Collins, was ordained 
April 17, 1764. He was a native of Guilford, Con., and a gra- 
duate of Yale College in 1760. The Episcopal church (called St. 
Luke's church) was instituted by the Rev. Samuel Andrews, of 
Wallingford, Con., Oct. 2, 1767, and their first house of worship Avas 
built in 1783. The Baptist church was formed in 1818, Avith 12 
members. Elder Augustus C. Beach was their minister. Their 
meeting-house was built in 1828, This town is 11 miles N. of 
Lenox, and 125 W. by N. of Boston. Number of mhabitants, 1,090. 
The following is from the " Statistical Tables," 1837, published by 
the state: "Saxony sheep, 7,814; merino sheep, 4,235; other 
kinds of sheep, 284 ; Saxony wool produced, 28,193 pounds ; merino 
wool, 13,510 pounds; other kinds of wool, 786 pounds; average 
weight of fleece, 3 pounds ; value of wool, $26,100; capital invested, 
1335,500." 



LEE. 

This toAvn was incorporated in the year 1777. The eastern part 
was taken from the town of Washmgton, called Hartwood ; the 
south-western, called Hopland, was taken from Great Barrington ; 
the remainder was made up of certain provincial grants, as Glass- 
works grant, Williams grant, &c. The town was named in honor 
of General Lee, then an active officer in the army of the Revolu- 
tion. The first white man who settled in the town was Mr. Isaac 
Davir,, in the year 1760, in quite the south part of the town, on the 
side of Hop brook. Most of the early inhabitants Avere from Tol- 
land, in Con., and from Barnstable, Sandwich, Falmouth, and 
Great Barrington, in Mass. One of the first settlers, Mr. Jesse 
Bradley, came from Ncav Haven, Con., another, Mr. .Jonathan 
Foot, from Colchester. The Congregational church in this town 
was organized on the 25th of May, 1780, by the Rev. Daniel Col- 
lins, of Lanesborough, consisting of 30 members. For the basis 
of their union, they adopted the same confession of faith which is 
acknowledged by the church at the present time. On the 3d of 
July, 1783, Mr. Elisha Parmelee, of Goshen, Con., a graduate of 
Harvard College, Avas ordained their pastor. 



78 



LEE. 



The township is 6 miles in length and 5 in breadth, and pre- 
sents a very diversified appearance. It embraces a part of the 
interval which lies between the Taconic and Green monntain 
ranges. The Green monntain range runs partly within the eastern 
limits of the town, and presents mnch picturesqne scenery. These 
monntains are, for the most part, of gentle acclivity, and in some 
places are cultivated qnite to their summits. From the base 
of these mountains the surface is uneven, but, upon the whole, 
descending, until we reach the plain on the banks of the Housa- 
tonic. In this town is good marble and iron ore. This town is 
5 miles S. E. of Lenox, and 120 W. of Boston. Population 2,095 




South-ivestcrn view of Lee, (^central part). 

The above shows the appearance of the central part of the prin- 
cipal village in Lee, as seen from the heights a few rods from the 
Stockbridge road. The principal part of the village is on the east 
side of the Housatonic, surrounded by lofty hills and mountains. 
South Lee is about three miles south-west from this place, near the 
Stockbridge line : it is much smaller than the central village, con- 
taining a number of ]iaper-mills, a church, and about thirty 
dwelling-houses. In 1837, there were 12 paper-mills in the limits 
of the town, which manufactured 1,200 tons of stock, producing 
paper to the value of ,^274.500. There was also a woollen mill, 
cotton mill, and forge for manufacturing bar iron. The first paper- 
mill in the town was built by Mr. Samuel Church, in South Lee, 
about thirty years since. 

In September, 1824, a scene of most appalling desolation was exhibited in this town. 
It was the explosion of an extensive powder factory, o-rnied by Messrs. Laflin, Looinis 
&' Co. At the time, it was estimated that there were about 5 tons of powder in the 
different buildings. On a very pleasant morning, when the workmen thought all 
things were going on securely, in a moment every building was razed from its foun- 
dation M'ith a tremendous explosion. Three of the unfortunate workmen were 
mstantly killed, and a fourth, who was thrown into the river, lingered for a short 
time, till death, like a friend, relieved him from his pains. Every house and building 
m the neighborhood was more or less injured, and every breast was shocked. Such 



LENOX. 79 

was the consternation produced in the minds of the inhabitants, that they universally- 
protested against the rebuilding, and. the feelings of the proprietors coinciding, the 
site and water privilege were soon after sold^ and an extensive paper-mill erected. 



LENOX. 

The Indian name of the greater part of the tract embraced in this . 
township was Yokwi, so called after an Indian sagamore of that 
name. Some small individnal grants united ; the town was incor- 
porated in 1767, and called Lenox, (the family name of the Duke 
of Richmond). Its length is about 6 miles, and its mean breadth 
4. The first Enghsh inhabitant of this town was Mr. Jonathan 
Hinsdale, from Hartford, Con. He moved into the place in 1750, 
and built a small dwelling about 50 rods south of Court-house hill, 
on the east side of the county road. A Mr. Dickinson soon after 
built a house just north of Mr. Hinsdale. In 1755, these, with 
some other families who had settled in the vicinity and in Pitts- 
field, removed to Stockbridge, through fear of the Indians, who 
were instigated to hostilities by the French in Canada. While the 
few families north of Stockbridge were hastening to that place for 
safety, a man by the name of Stephens, while passing a ledge of 
rocks in the south part of the town, was shot by the Indians, and 
fell dead from his horse. The horse was also killed, but a young 
woman by the name of Percy, who was on the horse with Mr. 
Stephens, by the aid of Mr. Hinsdale, escaped unhurt. Among the 
first permanent settlers were Jacob Bacon, Messrs. Hunt, McCoy, 
Gleason, Steel, Waterman, Root, Dewy, Miller, Whitlocke, Parker, 
Richard, Collins, Treat, Andrus, Wright, and others. A majority 
of the familes who first settled in the town, moved from West 
Hartford and Wallingford, Con. The first town officers were 
chosen March 5, 1767. The inhabitants about this time began to 
make preparation for the organization of a church and the settle- 
ment of a minister. The church was formed in 1769, by the Rev. 
Samuel Hopkins, then of Great Barrington. Rev. Samuel Munson, 
of New Haven, a graduate of Yale College, was ordained pastor 
November 8, 1770. Soon after his settlement, a house for public 
worship was erected near the place where the present Congrega- 
tional meeting-house is located, and was occupied till Jan. 1, 1806, 
when the present one was dedicated. The first burying-ground 
was more than a mile north of the village, and west of the county 
road. Soon after the first meeting-house was built, a piece of 
ground near it was marked out for a grave-yard. It has since 
been enlarged, and is now the principal burying-place in the town. 
The land on which the meeting-house stands, and for the burying- 
ground, was given to the society by a Mr. Reynolds. Mr. Mun- 
son was a man of good abilities, of ardent piety, sound in the faith, 
and zealous in promoting the cause of religion, but he lived in 
times of trouble. The revolutionary war occasioned very bitter 
animosities among the people ; and, subsequently, what is called 



80 



LENOX 



the Shays' insurrection was productive of much evil in the town. 
There has been an incorporated Episcopal society in the town 
since 1805. They have a handsome church, standing a few rods 
east of the court-house. There are also in this town a few fami- 
lies of the Baptist and Methodist denominations. Lenox academy 
was incorporated in 1803. At the time of the incorporation, the 
legislature made to it the grant of half a township of land in the 
state of Maine, which at that time belonged to Massachusetts. 
This land, for a number of years, was wholly unproductive, but it 
was sold a few years since, and produced a respectable fund, 
the avails of which are appropriated to the support of the institu- 
tion. 

Lenox is the shire town of Berkshire county. It is situated 
130 miles W. of Boston, 6 S. of Pittsfield, 42 from Springfield, 56 
from Hartford, 30 from Hudson, and 34 from Albany. Popula- 
tion, 1,275. The judicial courts have been held here since 1787, 




Northern vietv of Lenox. 



The above is a representation of Lenox village, as it is seen from 
near the Congregational church, which is situated on an eminence 
at the northern extremity of the village. On this spot the observer 
has a fine prospect of the village ; beyond which, are seen various 
ranges of lofty hills and mountains, and, far in the distance, is 
seen, towering above all others, the lofty summit of Mount Wash • 
ington. The village is uncommonly beautiful in its situation and 
general appearance : it consists of about forty dwelling-houses, 3 
churches, (1 Congregational, 1 Episcopal, and 1 Methodist,) a 
court-house constructed of brick, in a handsome style of architec- 
ture, a hotel, academy, printing-office, and other public buildings. 
The refined state of society in this place, the fine mountain air 
and scenery, and the superior accommodations at the hotel now 
kept by Mr. Wilson, all render Lenox a most desirable place of 
jresort during the warm season of the year. 



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LENOX, 



81 



The following, termed "the Covenant signed in Lenox, 1774," 
was, by a unanimous vote of the town, in 1828, ordered to be put 
upon the town records, " at the special request of Hon. William 
Walker and Col. Elijah Northrup, the only persons now living in 
the town whose names are in the following list." 

Whereas the Parliament of Great Britain have of lat« undertaken to give and grant 
away our money, without our knowledge or consent, and, in order to compel us to a 
servile submission to the above measures, have proceeded to block up the harbor of 
Boston ; also have or are about to vacate the charter and repeal certain laws of this 
province, heretofore enacted by the General Court, and confirmed to us by the king 
and his predecessors : therefore, as a means to obtain a speedy redress of the above 
grievances, we do solemnly and in good faith covenant and engage with each other, — 

1st. That we will not import, purchase, or consume, or suffer any person for, by, 
or under us, to import, purchase, or consume in any manner whatever, any goods, 
wares, or manufactures which shall arrive in America from Great Britain, from and 
after the first day of October next, or such other time as shall be agreed upon by the 
American Congress; nor any goods which shall be ordered from thence from and 
after this day, until our charter and constitutional rights shall be restored, or until it 
shall be determined by the major part of our brethren in this and the neighboring 
colonies, that a non-importation or non -consumption agreement will not have a ten- 
dency to efiect the desired end, or until it shall be apparent that a non-importation or 
non-consumption agreement will not be entered into by the majority of this and the 
neighboring colonies, except such articles as the said General Congress of North Ame- 
rica shall advise to import and consume. 

2dly. We do further covenant and agree, that we will observe the most strict obe- 
dience to all constitutional laws and authority, and will at all times exert ourselves 
to the utmost for the discouragement of all licentiousness, and suppressing all disor- 
derly mobs and riots. 

3dly. We will exert ourselves, as far as within us lies, in promoting peace, love, 
and unanimity among each other, and for that end we engage to avoid all unnecessary 
lawsuits whatever. 

4thly. As a strict and proper adherence to the non-importation and non-consump- 
tion agreement will, if not seasonably provided aigainst, involve us in many difficulties 
and inconveniences, we do promise and agree, that we will take the most prudent care 
for the raising of sheep, and for the manufacturing all such cloths as shall be most 
useful and necessary, and also for the raising of flax, and the manufacturing of linen , 
further, that we will, by every prudent method, endeavor to guard against all those 
inconveniences which might otherwise arise from the foregoing agreement. 

5th] y. That if any person shall refuse to sign this or a similar covenant, or, after 
having signed it, shall not adhere to the real intent and meaning thereof, he or they 
shall be treated by us with all the neglect they shall justly deserve, particularly by 
omitting all commercial dealing with them. 

6thly. That if this or a similar covenant shall, after the first day of August next, 
be offered to any trader or shopkeeper, in this county, and he or they shall refuse to 
sign the same, for the space of forty-eight hours, that we will, from thenceforth, pur- 
chase no article of British manufacture or East India goods from him or them, until 
such time as he or they shall sign this or a similar covenant. 

Witness our hands, dated at Lenox, this 14th dayof July, A. D. 1774. 



Israel Dibbell, 
Samuel Guthrie, 
Lazarus HoUister, 
Moses Miller, 
Bildad Clark, 
Jared Ingersol, 
Elisha Bangs, 
Moses Wood, 
John Adams, 
Amos Stanley, 
Timothy Way, 
Jcdidiah Cruttenden, 
Jesse HoUister, 



Isaiah Smith, jr., 
Samuel Northrup, 
David Clark, 
Joel Goodrich, 
Joseph HoUister, 
Isaac Bateman, 
John Root, 

Prosper , 

Timothy Steel, 
Noah Yale, 
Mathias Hall, 
Silas Blin, 
Paul Dewy, 



Timothy Cruttenden, 
Isaiah Smith, 
Titus Curtiss, 
Thomas Tracy, 
Enos Curtiss, 
Joseph Dwight, 
Rozel Ballard, 
Joel Blin, 
Moses Hyde, 
Charles Mattoon, 
Jehiel HoUister, 
James Richards, 
Ephraim Gary, 



Reuben Root, 
Elijah Northrup, 
Samuel Munson, 
David Clark, jr., 
Eleazer Barret, 
Rufus Branch, 
Solomon HoUister, 
Job St. Leonard, 
Uriah Cross, 
Thomas Gates, 
Samuel Jerome, 
Thomas Benedict, 
Charles Dibbell, 



82 



MOUNT WASHINGTON. 



Thomas Steel, 
Oliver Beldin, 
Caleb Hyde, 
John Paterson, 
Ephraim Smith, 
Edward Gray, 
Elias Willard, 
Allen Goodrich, 
Alexander Mackay, 
Thomas Landers, 
Abraham Northrup, 
Thomas Baleman, 
William Maltby, 
Luther Bateman, 
Israel Dewey, 



Elias Willard, jr., 
Matthew Miller, 
Ashley Goodrich, 
Reuben Sheldon, 
James Guthrie, 
Jonathan Foster, 
William Walker, 
Samuel Whedon, 
Jonathan Hinsdale, 
William Marti ndale, 
Simon Willard, 
Caleb Bull, 
Samuel Bement, 
Lemuel Collens, 
Thomas Foster, 



Ebenezer Turrill, 
David Root, 
Jacob St. John, 
Daniel Keeler, 
Stephen Cruttenden, 
David Hinsdell, 
Gorden Hollister, 
Amos Benton, 
Ephraim Hollister, 
Samuel Wright, 
Jeremiah Hull, 
Neheraiah Tracy, 
John Gray, 
Samuel Goodrich, 
Zenas Goodrich, 



Gershom Martindaie, 
Titus Parker, 
Ashbel Treat, 
John Treat, 
James Richards, jr.,* 
Stephen Titus, 
Asa Bacon, 
Hopson Beebe, 
Caleb Culver, 
Samuel Pond, 
Elisha Osborn, 
David Perry, 
Enos Stone. f 



MOUNT WASHINGTON. 

As early as 1753 or 4, a few families moved into the town. 
George Robinson, Joseph Graves, Thomas Wolcott, and .Tohn Dib- 
ble, were among ihe first settlers. In 1757, the Indian right to the 
land, whatever it might have been, after the sale of the two Hou- 
satonic townships, was purchased for £15. Soon after this, John 
Dibble, John King, Nathan Benjamine, Peter Wooden, Benjamin 
Osborn, Charles Paterson, and others, petitioned the legislature to 
grant them a township here ; and in 1760 the township was actu- 
ally surveyed, under the direction of the legislature, into 50 lots, 
though the grant prayed for was not made until 1774. The town 
was incorporated in 1779. The form of the township is irregular ; 
its length is about six miles, and its average breadth three and a 
half. It was formerly called Tagonic or Taconic Mountain. Its 
surface is uneven, and is very elevated, the center being nearly 
2,000 feet above the neighboruig towns, while a mountain ridge 
around this center rises nearly 1,000 feet higher. This ridge con- 
sists mostly of broken ledges of rocks, and but few trees of much 
size grow upon it. There is only soil enough intermingled with 
the rocks to support shrubs from one to four feet high. The 
whortleberry-bush abounds, and the inhabitants in the vicinity 
resort to it in the months of August and September, to gather the 
fruit. This town is 22 miles S. S. W. of Lenox, and 135 W. by S. 
of Boston. Population, 377. In 1835, it is stated in the "Mas- 
sachusetts Directory," that this town " has no minister of any 
denomination, no doctor, no lawyer, no postoffice, and no tavern." 
Since this period a house of worship has been erected in the cen- 
tral part of the town. 



* Mr. R. adds this to his signature : " I, James Richards, jr., do sign the whole 
of this paper, except these words put in, ' particularly by omitting all commercial 
dealing with them :' these words I refuse. J. R." 

t One of the first principal settlers of Rochester, N. Y. 



NEWMARLBOROUGH. 83 



NEW ASHFORD. 

This town began to be settled about 1762, by emigrants from the 
eastern part of the state, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. Among 
the early settlers were Nathaniel, Abel, and Gideon Kent, Uriah, 
Peter, and Eli Mallory, William Green, Jacob Lyon, Samuel Grid- 
ley, Jonathan Beach, Samuel P. Tyler, Abraham Kirby, William 
Campbell, Amariah Babbit, Evans Rice, Capt. Martin, and a Mr. 
Mason. This place was incorporated as a district Feb. 26, 1781, 
and enjoyed all the privileges of a town, except that it could not elect 
a representative to the legislature. A small, neat house, for pub- 
lic worship, was erected here in 1828, and dedicated in Jan., 1829. 
Most of the inhabitants are Methodists, who enjoy circuit preach- 
ing about half of the time. 

This town is about 4 miles square, and is situated principally on 
the steep and rugged hills which make from Saddle mountain on 
the east, and the Taconic range on the west, and which here 
approach each other. In the narrow valley between these hills, 
along the rise of the western branch of the Housatonic and the 
eastern branch of Green river, are some small tracts of more feasi- 
ble land. Valuable quarries of blue and white marble were opened 
in this town about 1822, which furnish a considerable branch of 
business. This toAvn is 18 miles N. of Lenox, and 130 W. by N. 
of Boston. Population, 253. 



NEW MARLBOROUGH. 

This township was originally called No. 2, and was granted in 
1736 to 72 proprietors, mostly belonging to Marlborough and its 
vicinity, in the county of Middlesex, by " The Great and General 
Court or Assembly of his Majesty's Province of the Massachusetts 
Bay in New England, held at Boston." The proprietors obtained 
the township of the Indians and took a deed, which was confirm- 
ed by the general court. Among other divisions of land into 
which the township was surveyed, were house lots consisting of 
60 acres each, to the number of 63, besides one for each grantee. 
The first improvements were made in 1739, by Mr. Benjamin 
Wheeler, from Marlborough. During the hard winter of 1739-40, 
he remained the only white inhabitant in the town. The Indians, 
though in most respects friendly, forbade him the use of the gun, 
lest he should kill the deer, and thus withheld from him part 
of the means of his support. His nearest white neighbors were in 
Sheffield, a distance of 10 miles, some of whom came on snow- 
shoes to see him. In the following summer he visited Marlborough 
and returned with his family. Among the other first settlers were 
Noah Church. Jabez Ward, Thomas Tatlow. Elias Keyes, Joseph 
Blackiner, Jesse Taylor, John Taylor, William Witt, Philip 
Brookins and Samuel Bryan, from Marlborough or the vicinity, in 



84 NEW MARLBOROUGH. 

1741 ; Joseph Adams, Moses Cleaveland, Silas Freeman, in 1744; 
and Charles Adams, Solomon Randsford, Nathan Randsford and 
Jarvis Pike, in 1745, from Canterbury, Con. Families by the name 
of Sheldon, Wright and Allen, from Northampton, Mass. and Shel- 
don, Norton, and Harmon, from Suffield, Con., moved in about 1745, 
and William Alexander and John Thompson the succeeding year, 
from Dedham. The first born in town were twins, children of Mr. 
Brookins. 

The first church ia the town was organized on the 31st of Oct. 1744, with 5 members 
On the following day, the Rev. Thomas Strong, a native of Northampton and graduate 
of Yale College, was ordained pastor of this church. His salary was £50. The first 
meeting-house was erected in 1743. The expense of building it was defrayed by the 
proprietors of the town. The second meeting-house of this society was built in 1793 
In consequence of some disagreement concerning the location of this house, anothei 
house was built the same year, and in 1794 the town was divided by the legislature, 
and a new parish, called the south parish, incorporated. On the 25th of April, 1794, the 
second or South church was formed, of 21 members, from the first church. The first 
pastor of this church. Rev. John Stevens, a native of Danbury, Con., and graduate of 
Yale College, was settled over the society Oct. 22, 1794. This parish has a ministerial 
fund, obtained by subscription in 1794, amounting to about $3,150. 

This town was incorporated in 1759, is eight and a half miles 
in length and 5 in breadth. The surface is generally uneven and 
hilly, and, like most of the more elevated towns in the county, stony ; 
though at the time of the settlement, the stones were so deeply 
covered with vegetable mould that the first inhabitants are said to 
have expressed their fears that they should not find stone enough 
to answer the purposes of building. Their fears were removed by 
finding a quarry of white stone, split by nature into blocks of dif- 
ferent sizes nearly square, on an elevation called Dry Hill. In the 
north-west part of the town is Six-mile pond, first so called by some 
Indians who lived six miles distant from it in Great Harrington, 
and who resorted to it, for the purpose of fishing. The outlet from 
this pond is called Konkapot, from the circumstance that an Indian 
family of that name lived by its side in the borders of Sheffield, 
A stream called Umpachene rises in the east part of the town, and 
passing by the center, runs S. W. and empties in the Konkapot. 
This stream also derives its name from an Indian. In the S. E. 
part of the township is a pond nearly two miles in circumference, 
called Hermit pond, which is the source of a stream, which runs 
S. W. into Canaan. This pond derived its name from the circum- 
stance that a hermit lived for several years on the south-eastern 
side. 

The name of this hermit was Timothy Leonard. He came from Fredericksburg, 
Dutchess county, N. Y., five or six years before the revolutionary war ; and though 
he purchased a farm, he led a solitary life till his death. He died June 13, 1817, from 
infirmity and old age, being, as was supposed, in his 70th year. Unwilling that any 
one should remain with him during a single night, he died as he lived, alone and un 
attended. The cause of his leading a solitary life is supposed to be explained by the 
fact that he was an inveterate hater of woman. His description of them was, 

" They say ihey will, and they won't ; 
What they promise to do they don't." 

" Let none smile at the history of Timothy Leonard, for he is not a solitary instance 
in which disappointed hope and mortified pride have been suffered tc blot out the social 
ftffections, and produce uselessness, wretchedniess and ruin." 



OTIS, 8» 

In the west part of the town is a cave of some httle note. It 
has several apartments of various dimensions, whose sides and 
roofs are hmestone, on which stalactites are continually forming. 
About one fourth of a mile S. W. of the south meeting-house is a 
rock judged to weigh 30 or 40 tons, so equally balanced on another 
rock, that a man may move it with one finger. This town is 20 
miles S. by E. of Lenox, and 130 S. W. by W. of Boston. Popu- 
lation, 1,570. 

OTIS. 

This town consists of the former town of Loudon and the dis- 
trict of Bethlehem. Loudon was incorporated in 1773. Previously 
it was called Tyr'mgham Eqidvalent^ because it had been granted 
to the proprietors of that town to compensate them for some losses 
which they had sustained. Bethlehem was incorporated in 1789. 
This was originally called the north eleven thousand acres, in refer- 
ence to Southfield, which was called the south eleven thousand acres. 
The settlement of Loudon commenced probably about 1750 or 55. 
Some of the earliest inhabitants whose names can be ascertained 
were David Kibbe, Stephen Kibbe, Isaac Kibbe, Dan. Gregory, 

Larkeom from Enfield, Con., Jeremy Stow, Eldad Bower, E. 

Pelton, George Troop, Ebenezer Trumbull, Jacob Cook, Timothy 
Whitney, Jonathan Norton and Samuel Marcy. The vote to 
build the first school-house was passed in 1774. The town settled 
but very slowly. Bethlehem began to be settled several years after 
Loudon. The names of some of the first settlers were Thomas 
Ward, Daniel Sumner, Phineas Kingsbury, John Plumbe, Adonijah 
Jones, Ebenezer Jones, Miles Jones, James Brackenridge, John 
Spear, and Robert Hunter. Most of these, and the subsequent in- 
habitants who moved into the district, came principally from Con. 
In June 1809 the district of Bethlehem was united with the town 
of Loudon, the town still bearing the name of Loudon. At a town 
meeting held in May 1810 it was proposed to have the name of the 
town altered at the discretion of P. Larkeom, Esq., then representa- 
tive at the general court; and in June he obtained for it the name 
of Otis^ in honor of the speaker of the house of representatives, the 
Hon. H. G. Otis of Boston. 

It appears from the records of the town that money was voted from year to year to 
hire preaching. About 1772, before the incorporation of the town, a person came into 
it by the name of George Troop, who asserted himself to be a candidate for the minis- 
Xvy, whom the inhabitants employed several years ; though it appeared finally that 
he had no license to preach. On a time appointed some of his hearers undertook to 
ordain him, and he on his part to form them into a church, after which he led them to 
the choice of deacons. The people at length becoming dissatisfied with him, an eccle- 
siastical council, convened in 1775, decided that he had no authority to preach or to 
organize a church, and that his church was not a regular church of Christ. He left 
the town in 1776 and joined the United States army in the character of chaplain, and 
his church separated and dissolved. On the 2d of Feb. 1779 a regular church was 
formed of 7 members. The Bethlehem church was organized Sept. 14, 1795, of 8 
members. At a conference of these churches, held June 5th, 1810, it was mutually 
agreed to become one church. No house of worship was ever built in Loudon, though 
different attempts were made for the purpose. Before the union of the town and dis- 
trict in 1809,the united society agreed to erect a meeting-housC; and procured timber and 



86 PERU. 

fixed upon a place to set it. This house was built by subscription, and was dedicated 
in the autumn of 1813. For a while after, the society had the services of Rev. Aaron 
Kinne, and some other clergymen. In Nov. 1814, the Rev. Jonathan Lee was invited 
to preach in the place, and was ordained pastor June 28, 1815. 

When Shays' insurrection broke out in 1786, a number of people who lived in the 
north part of the town, and attended meeting at Sandisfield, became alienated from 
their minister, the Rev. Mr. Storrs, on account of his opposition to the party of Shays. 
They withdrew from his ministry and professed themselves Baptists, and united with 
some inhabitants in the western part of Bethlehem in forming a Baptist church. They 
built a meeting-house, which stands in the south-western corner of this town. In the 
south-eastern section is a Methodist society, who have a meeting-house, which was 
erected by subscription in 1816. There is an Episcopal society in the center of the 
town, which was organized on the 1st of Jan. 1828. 

The general aspect of this town is uneven and broken. It 
abounds with granite rock, which renders the tillage difficult and 
expensive. At the distance of half a mile west of the center is a 
rock, with an opening or cavity in it, near the surface of the ground, 
where crystals of quartz and iron pyrites have been found. In 
the early settlement of Bethlehem, Daniel Sumner, while hunting 
for deer near by this rock, heard a sudden loud explosion, which 
much surprised and alarmed him. Curiosity leading him to exam- 
ine from what source it proceeded, he found an unusual appear- 
ance of the rock, which was discolored, where a fissure had been 
made, from which he concluded that the sound had proceeded 
from that place. It was probably produced by the combustion of 
hydrogen gas. This town is 15 miles S. E. of Lenox, and 120 W. 
by S. of Boston. Population, 1,077. 



PERU. 

This township included the greater part ot Hinsdale until 1804. 
The whole was purchased at auction, at Boston, June 2, 1762, for 
£1,460. This was denominated No. 2 of the nine townships which 
were sold at that time. It went into the hands of Oliver Partridge 
and Elisha .Tones, and, in honor of the former gentleman, was called 
Partridgefield from its incorporation in 1771 until 1806, when it 
received its present name. It is about 6 miles long and four and a 
half broad. Within these limits the settlement commenced about 
1764. Between this time and 1768, Henry Badger, from New 
Jersey, Nathaniel Stowell, from Connecticut, Peter, Daniel, and 
Nathan Thompson, brothers, from the eastern part of this state, set- 
tled in it, and Ebenezcr Pierce shortly after. This town, occupying 
the height of land on the Green mountain range, has a cold, severe 
climate. The surface is uneven, and the soil hard and stony, and 
best adapted to grazing. There is a limestone quarry, from which 
lime is made of the best quality. The first team is said to have 
crossed the mountain in this town in 1767, over which a turnpike 
road now passes. 

The inhabitants of this place have been distinguished for their 
zeal in supporting the institutions of the gospel. They are mostly 
Congregationalists, though there are some Baptists and Methodists 



.TTP. 




PITTSFIELD. 87 

belonging to societies in the adjoining towns. The church was 
organized with about 35 members, in 1770, and the Rev. Stephen 
Tracy, from Norwich, Connecticut, was ordained their pastor in 
April, 1772. The first meeting-house was erected in 1780, and 
the present one July IS, 1807. It is a remarkable fact, that the 
rain from the east roof of this house flows into Connecticut river, 
and from the west into the Housatonic. This town is about 15 
miles N. E. of Lenox, and 111 W. of Boston. Population, 656. 



PITTSFIELD. 



The settlement of this town was commenced in 1752, by Solo- 
mon Deming, who moved with his family from Wethersfield, Con., 
and settled in the east part of the town. Charles Goodrich and a 
number of others soon followed. Mrs. Deming was the first white 
female who came into the town, and was often left alone through 
the night by the necessary absence of her husband, when there 
Avas not another white inhabitant in the town, and the wilderness 
was filled with Indians. She was the last, as well as the first, df 
the settlers, and died in March, 1818, aged 92. Mr. Goodrich 
(who died in 1815, in the 96th year of his age,) drove the first cart 
and team into the town from Wethersfield, and was obliged to cut 
his way through the woods a number of miles. In the year 1753, 
Simeon Crofoot, Charles Goodrich, Jacob Ensign, Solomon Deming, 
Stephen Crofoot, Samuel Taylor, and Elias Willard, obtained an 
act from the general court, incorporating them by the name of 
" The proprietors of the settling lots in the township of Poontoo- 
suck." This was the Indian name of the place, which was retained 
until 1761, when the town was incorporated by the name of Pitts- 
field, in honor of the celebrated statesman William Pitt. The pro- 
prietors were driven off once or twice by the Indians in the time 
of the second French war. Three small forts were erected in dif- 
ferent parts of the town, as places of safety against the Indians. 

The first meeting-house was erected a little south of the present 
Congregational church. The Rev. Thomas Allen was ordained 
the first pastor, April 18, 1764. He continued in that relation till 
his death, which occurred Feb. 11, 1810. Owing to political differ- 
ences this church was divided from 1808 till 1817, during which 
time the minority were a separate church, and settled Mr. Thomas 
Punderson their minister, but Avere again united in the last-men- 
tioned year, and Rev. Heman Humphrey installed their pastor. 

Pittsfield is finely situated at the junction of the principal branches 
of the Housatonic river, and occupies a beautiful expansion of the 
valley between the Taconic and Green mountain range. The 
soil of this township is of a superior quality, and is divided into 
farms exhibiting fine specimens of agriculture. The village in the 
central part of the town is one of the largest and best built in the 
county. There is a public square in the center, containing about 



88 RICHMOND. 

four acres : in the center of this square is a large elm, which 
was left standing when the original forest was cleared away. It 
is 126 feet in height, and 90 feet to the hmbs. It is a striking 
object, and never fails to attract the notice of strangers. There are 
in the village 4 churches : 1 Congregational, 1 Episcopal, 1 Bap- 
tist, and 1 Methodist; the Berkshire Medical Institution, and a 
number of other public buildings. There is also a bank, the 
" Agricultural Bank," incorporated in 1818, with a capital of $100,- 
000 ; a printing-office, an academy, and other seminaries of learn- 
ing. The Berkshire Medical Institution was incorporated in 1823, 
and is connected with Williams College, at Williamstown. There 
is a Lyceum of Natural History connected with this institution, 
formed by its trustees, according to act of the legislature. Pitts- 
field is 6 miles from Lenox, 33 E. S. E. from Albany, and 125 W. 
from Boston. Population, 3,575. 

In 1837, there were in the town 2 cotton mills, consuming 125,- 
000 lbs. of cotton ; 500,000 yards of cotton manufactured ; 6 woollen 
mills, consuming 315,000 lbs. of wool; 233,000 yards of cloth 
manufactured, valued at $547,000. There were 2,135 Saxony 
sheep; 10,534 merino sheep; other kinds of sheep, 293 ; the value 
of the wool produced, $19,443 ; capital invested, $349,974. The 
value of muskets manufactured, ,$24,000 ; and 30 hands employed. 
Value of carriages manufactured, $20,000 ; hands employed, 30. 
Beside the above, various other articles are manufactured, such as 
buttons, brooms, hats, leather, chairs, &c. 



RICHMOND. 



This township was first purchased of two chieftains of the Stock- 
bridge tribe of Indians, by the agency of Samuel Brown, jr., Esq., of 
Stockbridge, in or about the year 1763. The consideration for the 
purchase was £1,700. It appears that by a resolve of the general 
court, passed Feb. 17 of the same year, the purchase was confirmed 
to the several proprietors on condition of their paying the stipulated 
sum of money to the Indians, and that they should, within five 
years' time, have 50 settlers residing within the limits, who should 
each have a good dwelling-house, and that they should have a 
learned Protestant minister settled among them within the time 
specified. The settlement of the town commenced in 1760. In 
the summer of that year, Capt. Micah Mudge moved his family 
into the place, and in the succeeding autumn Mr. Ichabod Wood, 
from Rehoboth. These two families settled about 3 miles apart, 
and remained alone in the wilderness through a long and gloomy 
winter. In the year 1761, several families moved to this place, 
viz. Elijah and Isaac Brown, John Chamberlain, David Pixley, 
Joseph Patterson, and Daniel, Timothy, and Aaron Rowley, who 

fenerally settled in the south and west parts of the town. In 1762, 
oseph and Paul Raymond, and John and Daniel Slosson, from 



SANDISFIELD. »y 

Kent, Con., moved in, and some others. From that time, the set- 
tlement advanced rapidly, until every part of the town was inha- 
bited. The most part of the first settlers were from Connecticut 
and Long Island. The church was formed in Richmond about 

1765. In that year, the Rev. Job Swift, afterwards the minister 
of Bennington, Vt., was settled as their pastor. He was a native 
of Sandwich, Mass., and a graduate of Yale College in 1765. 
President D wight says, " Dr. Swift was one of the best and most 
useful men I ever knew. To the churches and ministers of Ver- 
mont he was a patriarch : and wherever he was known he is 
remembered with the greatest veneration." The present Congre- 
gational meeting-house was built in 1794, at the cost of f 4,000. 
The Methodist society have a neat and convenient meeting-house, 
which was built in 1825. 

This town was incorporated on the 20th of June, 1765, by the 
name of Rlchmo7id^ (after the Duke of Richmond). In the year 

1766, on the 26th of February, the township was divided by an 
act of the legislature, and the easterly part incorporated by the 
name of Lenox. The tract included between the mountains is a 
pleasant and fertile valley, averaging about 3 miles in width, 
enclosed by hills on the east and west, commanding delightful 
prospects. An intelligent gentleman, who had spent many years 
in foreign countries, after passing through this town, and viewing 
the valley from the hill on the west, observed that in natural 
scenery it excelled the view from the famous Richmond Hill, in 
England. This town joins Lenox : distance from that place, 5 
miles, and 135 W. of Boston. Population, 820. There is a fur- 
nace in the town for the manufacture of pig iron, which in 1837 
employed 40 hands, who manufactured 600 tons, valued at $26,400. 
There were 4,835 merino sheep, whose fleeces averaged 3 pounds 
and valued at $8,703 ; capital invested, $90,000. 



SANDISFIELD 



This town, in connection with others, was granted to a company 
who petitioned for the same in 1735. It was called No. 3. The 
proprietors mostly lived in the county of Worcester. The patent 
of the town was granted in 1736, and soon after the location of 
town lots was made. No family moved into the place till 1750. 
Thomas Brown was the first. Soon after, his father, Daniel 
Brown, Esq., moved in with his numerous family. He was one 
of the principal men ; was born near Boston, but had lived for 
some time in Enfield, Con. The settlement of the town advanced 
rapidly. A large number of families came in from Wethersfield, 
Con., and the adjoining towns, and also a considerable number from 
the towns below Plymouth, on Cape Cod. The first white child born 
in the town was named Lot Smith, Aug. 7, 1757, because the pro- 
prietors, meeting on the day he was born, proposed giving him a 
lot of land. The town enjoyed the preaching of the gospel within 



90 SAVOY. 

5 or 6 years of the first settlement. The first meeting-house was 
erected m 1757, and stood till 1796, when a new one was built. 
The site is nearly in the center of the town, and the house is lite- 
rally founded on a rock. The church was formed in 1756. Rev. 
Cornelius Jones, a native of Bellingham, and a graduate of Har- 
vard College in 1752, was the first minister in the place. He was 
ordained at the time the church was organized. The place of the 
transactions of the day, for the want of a more convenient place, 
was a bcum. The first President Edwards, then settled over the 
Stockbridge Indians, was moderator of the council, and preached 
the ordination sermon. There are two Baptist churches in this 
town, though the meeting-house of the second society is in the N. 
W. corner of Otis. The first was organized Aug. 21, 1779. Their 
first pastor was Elder Joshua Morse, who was ordained Oct. 2, of 
the same year. The second Baptist church, consisting of 19 mem- 
bers, was constituted April 25, 1788. Mr. Benjamin Baldwin, a 
native of Otis, was ordained over this church June 9, 1790. This 
town was incorporated in 1762, and now includes the original 
township of Sandisfield, and the tract formerly called the south 
11,000 acres. This tract was incorporated as a district in 1797, 
and annexed to Sandisfield in 1819. The length of the township 
is about 9 miles and the breadth six. The surface is hilly ; the 
hills rise to a considerable height, but not abrupt, they being 
mostly large swells. A considerable mountain rises, however, on 
the western bank of Farmington river, in the S. E. section of the 
town, known by the name of Hanging mountain. It is 450 feet 
in height above the bank, and presents to the S. E. a mural perpen- 
dicular front. This town was originally Indian hunting-ground. 
In clearing a piece of wood-land a few years ago, a large number 
of arrow-heads of stone were found carefully deposited between 
two rocks, probably placed there ages ago. It does not appear 
that the town was ever an Indian settlement. This town is 20 
miles S. E. by E. of Lenox, and 112 W. by S. of Boston. Popu- 
lation, 1,493. 



SAVOY. 

The general court, in 1770 or 71, granted to Col. William Bul- 
lock, of Rehoboth, agent for the heirs of Capt. Samnel Gallop and 
company, a township of land 6 miles square, in consideration 
of the services and sufferings of the said Gallop and com- 
pany in an expedition into Canada in 1690, in King William's 
war. The greater part of this grant composes the present town 
of Savoy. The first family settled in this town in Sept., 1777, 
and within 10 years from that time 35 families were located in 
the place. Some of these were Lemuel Hatheway, Daniel 
Wetherell, William Wilbore, Zachariah Padelford, and Joseph, 
William, Thomas, and Joseph (jr.) Williams, from Taunton, John 



SHEFFIELD. 91 

Bourn, Joseph Bishop, Comfort Bates, Abiel Dunham, Michael 
Sweet, and David Matthews, from Attl-eborough, and families of 
the names of Babbit, Shearman, Reed, Bennet, Ingraham, Nelson, 
Rogers, Fuller, Putney, and Heath, from other places. Public 
worship was early established in this town. Most of the people 
ire Baptists, though there are some Methodists and Congregation- 
alists. The Baptist church was organized June 24, 1787. Their 
first minister was Elder Nathan Haskins, a native of Shutesbury, 
ordained in 1789. The society built their meeting-house half a 
mile north of the hollow, in 1804. Savoy is a mountainous town- 
ship, and a large portion of it too broken for cultivation. The 
best lands are in the north and east parts. The inhabitants are 
mostly farmers, who raise stock and keep large dairies. The vil- 
lage called ^Savoy village is in the south part of this town, on the 
north branch of the Westfield river. This little village consists 
of 2 churches, (1 Baptist, 1 Methodist,) 2 taverns, 2 stores, and 
about 15 dwelling-houses. Distance, 25 miles from Lenox, 7 from 
South AdamSy 28 to Northampton, 29 to Greenfield, and 44 to 
Troy, N. Y. 



SHEFFIELD 



As early as 1722, Joseph Parsons and 176 other persons within 
the county of Hampshire, petitioned the general court of Massa- 
chusetts for two townships of land on the river Hovsatonic or 
Westbrook. This petition was granted Jan. 30, 1722-3, and a 
committee appointed for the purpose of making the purchase of 
the Indians, dividing the tract, granting lots, admitting settlers, 
&c. On the 25th of April, 1724, the committee made the par- 
chase of the Indians and received from them a deed, " in conside- 
ration of £460, three barrels of cider, and thirty quarts of rumV 
This deed was signed and sealed by Konkepot and twenty other 
Indians at Westfield, before John Ashley, justice of the peace. The 
Indians in this deed reserved to themselves two small tracts, which 
on their removal, about 10 years after, they exchanged for land in 
Upper Housatonic, Avithin the present town of Stockbridge. There 
were two or three small Indian settlements in this town, though 
but a few traces of them are now to be found. On a gravelly 
hillock in the north part of the town, in a tract which they reserved, 
it is supposed was their burying-place. Human bones were 
discovered in making the turnpike road through the tow)i two 
and a half miles south of the meeting-house, on the rise of ground 
a few rods south of the turnpike gate, which led< to the conclusion 
that this spot too was an Indian burying-place. 

In 1725, Capt. John Ashley and Capt. Ebenezer Pomroy, two 
of the committee, made a general division of the lower township, 
especially of the part lying upon the river ; and soon after the 
place began to be settled by individuals from the county of Hamp- 

13 



92 



SHEFFIELD, 



shire, and mostly from the town of Westfield. In 1726 the settlers 
were subjected to much inconvenience and vexation by some of 
the Dutch inhabitants of the province of New York, who con- 
tested the titles to the lands. They were also subjected to priva- 
tion through fear of the Indians, and were obliged for safety to 
picket in two or three dwellhigs in different parts of the town, to 
which they resorted to spend the night. 




tlhirii view of Sheffield, (central part). 



In 1733 the lower township Housatonic was set off and 
incorporated as a town, eight miles long on the river, and wide 
enough to include 7 square miles ; and was named Sheffield, pro- 
bably from Sheffield in England. It extended north to Great 
Barrington bridge. In 1761 the town was reduced to its present 
limits, 8 miles in length and 7 in breadth. Among the first settlers 
of this town were those of the name of Noble, Austin, Westover, 
Kellogg, Pell, Callender, Corban, Huggins, Smith, Ingersoll, Dewey, 
Root, &c., hi all about 60, who had their lands, from 250 to 1,000 
acres each, confirmed to them by the committee. Mr. Obadiah 
Noble, from Westfield, was the first white man who resided in the 
town. He spent the first winter here with no other human being 
than the Indians. In spring he went back to Westfield, and in 
June returned with his daughter. The first church in this town 
was organized on the 22d of Oct., 1735. Mr. Jonathan Hubbard, 
of Sunderland, and a graduate of Yale College, was ordained their 
pastor on the same occasion. The people had built a meeting- 
house the summer previous, 45 feet by 35. This house stood till 
1762, when a new one was erected. 

The engraving above is a view of the Congregational church 
(the only church in the town) and some other buildings in the 
central part of the town, with the east mountain in the distance. 
The first meeting-house stood about half a mile north of the pre- 
sent house, near the house of Mr. Hubbard, the first minister, 
which is still standing and occupied by his son. This place is 
20 miles from Lenox, 28 from Hudson, 28 from Litchfield, 48 from 
Hartford, and about 125 from Boston. Population, 2,308. 



SHEFFIELD. 93 

A Baptist church was formed in this town on the 7th of July, 
1825, with 15 members. There are a few Episcopahans and 
Methodists in the town. 

The town includes an extensive vale, and, except on the east, is 
generally level. In that part there is an extensive chain of con- 
siderable hills, extending from one end of the township to the 
other. On the west it is mountainous : Taconic, or Mount Wash- 
ington, as this part of the Taconic range is more generally called, 
is about 2500 feet in height, and presents a magnificent spectacle. 
A part of this mountain is within the limits of Sheffield. This 
town affords great abundance of wliite marble, and much of ex- 
cellent quality. The soil of the township is generally productive, 
and in the vale easily tilled. Large quantities of hay are easily 
obtained from the extensive intervals lying upon the river. The 
Housatonic, which passes through the length of the town, is here 
a silent, sluggish stream, from 6 to 8 rods in breadth. From this 
town it passes into Connecticut, and, flowing through the western 
part of the state, empties into Long Island Sound between Mil- 
ford and Stratford, 13 miles west of New Haven. 

The following singular occurrences are said to have taken place 
near the boundary line between Massachusetts and Connecticut. 
Part of these occurrences took place in this town, aiid part in the 
adjoining town of Salisbury, in Connecticut. The relation of 
these circumstances was obtained from Mr. S. Sage and his family, 
who are still living on the spot, (June, 1836,) and could be corro- 
borated by great numbers of people now living : — 

" These occurrences commenced Nov. 8th, 1802, at a clothier's shop. A man and 
two boys were in the shop ; the boys had retired to rest, it being between 10 and 
11 o'clock at night. A block of wood was thrown through the window ; after that, 
pieces of hard mortar, till the man and boys became alarmed, and went to the house 
to call Mr. Sage, who arose from bed and went to the shop, and could hear the glass 
break often, but could not discover from whence it came, notwithstanding the night 
was very light. He exerted himself to discover the cause without success. It con- 
tinued constantly till day-light, and then ceased till the next evening at 8 o'clock, 
when it commenced again, and continued till midnight ; then ceased till the next 
evening at dusk, and continued till some time in the evening, and then ceased. The 
next day it commenced about an hour before sun-down, and continued about an hour, 
and then it left the shop and began at the dwelling-house of Mr. Ezekiel Landon, 100 
rods north, in the town of Sheffield. It continued several hours, and ceased till 
the next morning: when the family were at breakfast it began again, and continued 
two or three hours, and ceased till evening, when it began again and continued 
several hours, and ceased till the next morning, when it began again and con- 
tinued all the forenoon, and then ceased altogether. The articles thrown into the 
shop were pieces of wood, charcoal, stone, but principally pieces of hard mortar, 
such as could not be found in the neighborhood. Nothing but stones were thrown 
into the house of Mr. Landon, the first of which were thrown into the dooi. There 
were 38 panes of glass broke out of the shop, and 18 out of the dwelling houses ; 
in two or three instances persons were hit by the things that were thrown. What 
was remarkable, nothing could be seen coming tilt the glass broke, and whatever 
passed through, fell directly down on the window-sill, as if it had been put through 
with a person's fingers, and many pieces of mortar and coal were thrown through 
the same hole in the glass in succession. Many hundreds of people assembled to 
witness the scene, among whom were clergymen and other gentlemen, but none 
were able to detect the source of the mischief. The more credulous readily 
believed it to be witchcraft, but it was generally thought to be some slight of hand, 
effected by a combination of individuals, as the windows were broken on different 
• •'!»<; of the buildings nearly at the same time." 



94 STOCKBRIDGE. 

The following inscriptions are taken from monuments in the 
grave-yards in this place. 

Sacred to the memory of Jonathan Hubbard, and Mrs. Rachel Hubbard his consort, 
this monument is erected. The Rev. J. Hubbard was the first pastor of the church in 
Sheffield. He was blessed with a lively genius and solid judgment. His public dis- 
eources were judicious, and his conversation instructive. He departed this life July 
6th, 1765, in the 62d year of his age. Our Fathers where are they ? and do the Pro- 
phets live forever ? 



Beneath this stone lies the body of the Rev. John Keep, A. M., pastor of the church 
in Sheffield, who died Sept. 3d, A. D. 1781, JElat. 36, et ministerii 13, calmly resign- 
ing his mortal life in hope of a blessed immortality thro' the atonement of Jesus 
Christ. He was blessed with natural genius improved by education, and a benevolent 
heart, and was illustrious as a Divine, a Preacher, a Friend and a Christian. 

When Suns and Planets from their orbs be hurl'd 

And livid flames mvolve this smoking world ; 

The Trump of God announce the Savior nigh 

And shining hosts of angels crowd the sky 

Then from this tomb thy dust shall they convey 

To happier regions of eternal day. 



Sacred to the memory of the Rev. Ephraim Judson, Pastor of the church in Sheffield. 
He died on the 23d of February, A. D. 1813, in the 76th year of his age, and 23d of his 
ministry in Sheffield, having been previously the pastor of the church in Norwich, 
and also in Taunton. Mr. Judson was esteemed as a learned divine, an acute 
logician, and an evangelical preacher. He was mild, courteous, and hospitable. 
By his numerous friends he was deemed a w ise counsellor, an active peace-maker, 
6c a sineerfi christian. What he was in Truth, the Great Day will disclose. 



Here lies deposited the body of Major General John Ashley, who died Nov. 5, 1799, 
in the 64th year of his age. 

Make the extended skies your tomh. 
Let stars record your worth ; 
Yet know vain mortals all must die, 
As natures sickliest birth. 



This monument is erected to perpetuate the memory of Col. John Ashley, who 
departed this life Sept. 1st, 1802, in the 93d year of his age. 

Virtue alone has majesty in death, 
And triumphs most when most the tyrant frowns ^ 
Earth highest station ends in Here he lies 
And dust to dust concludes her noblest song. 



STOCKBRIDGE. 

This town was originally laid out by the general government 
of the state in 1735, for the accommodation of the Indians. In 
the year previous a mission was commenced among the Housa- 
tonic Indians by Mr. John Sergeant, then a candidate for the 
ministry, assisted by Mr. Timothy Woodbridge as schoolmaster, 
under the patronage of the board of commissioners for Indian 
affairs in Boston, of which his excellency Jonathan Belcher, then 
British governor of Massachusetts, was an active and influential 
member. At that time about half of these Indians lived in the 



STOCKB RIDGE. 95 

great meadow on the Housatonic in this town, called by them 
Wnahktukook. Here Konkapot the chieftain resided, who had 
just before been honored by Gov. Belcher with a captain's com- 
mission. His cabin stood on a knoll a few rods north of the 
Konkapot brook, on the east side of the county road. The other 
Indians lived on their reservation in Sheffield, called by them 
Skatehook. For the better improvement of their moral condition 
it was soon found desirable to have these united and settled in one 
place, with such other Indians in the vicinity as might be disposed 
to join with them. Being made acquainted with their situation, 
the legislature, on the 17th of March, 1735, granted them a town- 
ship 6 miles square, to be laid out on the Housatonic river, 
immediately north of Monument mountain, provided the proprie- 
tors and settlers of the Upper Housatonic could be induced to 
give up their right to that portion of their lands on which the new 
township would partly fall. It was wished to include the fine 
alluvial ground at Wnahktukook, where the chieftain resided, and, 
which, to some extent, was under cultivation. The committee met 
with but little difficulty in performing the duties assigned them, 
and in April, 1736, they laid out the town in a square, which inclu- 
ded the present townships of Stockbridge and West-Stockbridge. 

Early in May of that year the Indians began to move into their plantation, and by 
the last of June there were more than 90 persons in the settlement. In Jan., 1737, 
the subject being laid before the legislature by the governor, they ordered that a 
meeting-house 40 feet by 30, together with a school-house, should be built for the 
Indians at the charge of the province. On the 7th of May in this year, the grant of 
the town was confirmed to the Indians, their heirs and assigns ; and in 1739, the town 
was incorporated by the name of Stockbridge, after the town of that name in Eng- 
land. Their meeting-house was first opened for public worship on the 29th of Nov., 
1739, the day of thanksgiving in the commonwealth. It stood a few rods north-east 
of the site of the present south meeting-house. The settlement gradually increased 
for many years, until they numbered, at one time, nearly 500, though it is probable 
that their average number, while they remained in the town, was about 400. A short 
time before the revolutionary war, a to\niship, 6 miles square, was given them by 
the Oneidas, in the state of New York. After the close of the war, in 1783, some of 
them removed, a large proportion of them in 1785, and the residue in 1788. In 1810, 
they are represented to have numbered more than 600. In 1822 these Indians began 
to move to Green Bay, on the southern shore of Lake Michigan, on to a tract of 
5,000,000 acres, purchased for them and other Indians in the state of New York, for 
$500, of the Menominie and Winnebago tribes. The head of Green Bay is near the 
center of their purchase. The residence of Capt. Konkapot has been mentioned ; 
that of King Ben [Benjamin Kokkewenaunaut] was on the elevated ground back of 
the Housatonic, half a mile west of the plain. In 1771, being then 94 years old, 
this chieftain told his people that they must appoint another king, and king Solomon 
[Solomon Unhaunnauwaunnutt] was chosen his successor. His house was on the 
south bank of the Housatonic, opposite Little Hill. He died in Feb., 1777, aged 50. 
King Ben lived till April 1781, being 104 years old. Some of the Indians' houses 
were on the plain, some on the meadows near the river, and a few about Barnum's 
brook. These Indians at first were called by the English Eiver Indians, afterwards 
more generally Housatonic Indians, until the incorporation of this town ; since which 
they have more generally been called Stockbridge Indians. They have also some- 
times, as well as the tribe at Norwich, Conn., been called Mohegans, which is a cor- 
ruption of their proper name Mahhekaneew or Muhhekaneok, signifying "the people 
of the great waters, continualhj in jnotion." 

One very important effect which this mission produced was, that the friendship of 
these Indians was eflectually secured to the English. They performed numerous 
kind offices for the early settlers of the county ; in time of war they were spies for 
the English, and often fought and sometimes shed their blood for them in the army. 



99 STOCKBRIDGE. 

Though Fort Massachusetts was repeatedly attacked in the time of the first French war, 
and terror was spread through all this region, yet, in consequence of the well-known 
friendship of the 3Iuhhekaneews, no hostile Indians ventured down into the vicinity 
oJ I his place, and the southern section of the county was saved from such calamities 
as befel some of the settlements on Connecticut river, and others to the west, in the 
state of New York. Though in the second French war a few families in different 
parts of the county were disturbed, yet the mischief was small compared with what 
probably would have been done, had it not been for the friendship of the Stockbridge 
tribe. In this war many of the Indians were received as soldiers in the service of 
Massachusetts, and showed their fidelity by fighting for the whites. In the revolu- 
tionary war a part of the company of minute men under the conmiand of Captain 
Goodrich, of this town, was composed of these Indians. A company went to 
White Plains under Capt. Daniel Nimham, where some were slain, and others died 
with sickness. Numbers served at other places. At the close of the war General 
Washington directed the contractors for supplying a division of the army at West 
Point with provisions, to give the Indians a feast, in consideration of their good conduct 
in the service. An ox weighing 1,10U lbs. was roasted whole; the whole tribe partook of 
it; the men first, and then the women, according to custom. The Fiev. John Sergeant 
(the younger) and a Mr. Deane presided at the table, and the principal men of the 
place attended. The feast was kept near the residence of King Solomon, and after 
this was over the Indians buried the hatchet in token that the war was past, and 
performed some other ceremonies in their own style for the gratification of the com- 
pany. The school commenced among these Indians by Mr. Woodbridge, in the 
autumn of 1734, was kept by him many years, and was regularly kept afterwards 
(for some time by Mr. John Sergeant, Jun.) until the Indians emigrated to the region 
of the Oneidas. 

The following account of Mr. Sergeant's labors is taken from 
the History of Stockbridge, by the Rev. David D. Field. 

In 1741, Mr. Sergeant projected the plan of a boarding-school, which M'as summa- 
rily this : That a tract of land of about 200 acres should be set aside for the use of 
the school, and a house erected upon it ; that a number of children and youth, be- 
tween the ages of 10 and 20, should be received, and placed under the care of two 
masters, one of whom should take the oversight of thein in their hours of labor, and 
the other in their hours of studij, and that their time should be so divided between the 
hours of labor and study, as to make one the diversion of the other; that the fruit of 
their labors should go towards their maintenance, and to carry on the general design ; 
and that a stock of cattle should be maintained on the place for the same piu"pose. It 
was also proposed to take into the number, on certain conditions, children from any 
of the Indian tribes around, that by their means the principles of virtue and Christian 
knowledge might be spread as far as possible. 

This project was very popular among the Indian and English inhabitants of this 
place, and much was eventually done by them, considering their circumstances, for 
promoting it. It was also popular with the commissioners and their friends in Boston. 
But before much was done, the first French war commenced, which rendered it neces- 
sary that the actual establishment of the school should be postponed for a season. In 
the mean while, as the Corporation for Indian Affairs, under which the coinmissioners 
acted, existed in London, the project attracted the favorable notice of such blessed 
men there as Dr. Isaac Watts and Capt. Thomas Coram, who exerted themselves to 
raise funds for the support of the .school. The Prince of Wales headed a subscription 
with 20 guineas, and a lew others high in rank and office subscribed for it. Mr. Isaac 
HoUis made provision at first for supporting 12 boys, and afterwards for supporting 
24, and was so anxious that the children should be instructed immediately, that Mr. 
Sergeant took 12 under his care in the beginning of 1748. But as it was not alto- 
gether safe for them to remain here during the war, he procured Capt. Martin Kel- 
logg, of Newington, in Wethersfield, Conn., to take them in May, and instruct them 
for a year. In 1749, the war being closed, a house for the hoarding-school was erected, 
which stood on the southern end of the garden belonging to Mr. IJenoni C. Wells. 

The heart of Mr. Sergeant was drawn exceedingly towards this school. His suc- 
cessor, President Edwards, thought much of it, and, directly after his settlement in 
this place, a large council from the Six Nations sat here to consider the subject of 
sending their children to the school. After it was opened, the Rev. Gideon Hawley, 
afterwards missionary at Marshpee, it is understood, instructed it for a time. " He 
taught a few families of Mohawks, Oneidas and Tuskaroras." The Rev. Cottoa 



STOCKBRIDGE. 97 

Mather Smith, who afterwards settled in Sharon, Conn., also instructed it for a season. 
But arrangements for managing the school were never very thoroughly made ; and 
admirable as was the plan, and as much as it promised, the occurrence of the second 
French war nearly destroyed it. 

Notwithstanding this unhappy issue, however, in this school, in connection with the 
common school, a considerable number of Indians received a good education. A few 
also were instructed at the Indian charity school at Hanover, N. H., and Peter Poli- 
quonnoppeet was graduated at the college in that town in 1780. This Sir Peter, as 
he was commonly called, was a man of good talents and character, and connected with 
Joseph Quanaukaunt, Capt. Hendrick Aupaumut, and Capt. John Konkapot, in a 
council, which, after the decease of King Solomon, regulated the affairs of the tribe. 
The regal power, it is said, belonged to Joseph Quanaukaunt ; but being a very modest 
and unassuming, as well as sensible man, he chose not to be king, but wished the 
tribe to be governed by a council. 

Many of the Indians were fitted for the transaction of all ordinary business. A part 
of the town offices were uniformly sustained by them while they remained in this 
place. The speech of one of the chiefs to the Massachusetts congress in 1775, in 
Bingham's Columbian Orator, tendering his services in the revolutionary war, may 
be taken as a specimen of the talent at oratory which some of them possessed. 

As to religion, it is evident that the Spirit of God was poured forth under the minis- 
try of Mr. Sergeant, and that his labors were blessed to the conversion of many souls. 
The Lord's supper was first administered here on the 4lh of June, 1738 ; but as a 
number had made a profession years before, the church must be considered as pre 
viously existing, although we have no express account of the time and manner of its 
organization. About 100, from first to last, made a profession of Christianity ; and 
though it is not certain all these were genuine converts, yet we have no authority for 
restricting the operations of grace entirely to those who became professors, nor indeed 
to the members of this tribe ; for considerable numbers from other tribes occasionally 
listened here to the instructions of the gospel. 

But the extent to which they were civilized and christianized, will be more fully un 
derstocd by attending to the labors of the successive missionaries. 

At the time Mr Sergeant received his appointment, he was a tutor in Yale College. 
He visited the Indians in the autumn of 1734, and again in the spring of 1735, and 
in July in the latter year, having relinquished the duties of the tutorship, he took up 
his residence with the Indians for life. On the 31st of August following he was or- 
dained at Deerfield, where Gov. Belcher had made an appointment to meet some In- 
dian tribes about that time, for the purpose of making a treaty with them. The or- 
dination took place on the Sabbath, in the presence of the congregation usually wor- 
shipping there, of the governor and a large committee of both houses of the legisla- 
ture, of the Indians collected from several tribes, and of some of the Housatonic 
Indians, who sat by themselves, and formally received Mr. Sergeant as their mis- 
sionary. 

In the winters of 1734 and 5, and of 1735 and 6, the Indians were instructed in 
Great Barrington, and in the intermediate summer in Sheffield and Stockbridge. 
Upon their removal to this town in May in the year last mentioned, Mr. Woodbridge 
removed here and boarded with Capt. Konkapot. Mr. Sergeant boarded with a fami- 
ly in Great Barrington until January, 1737, when he moved into town, and boarded 
with Mr. Woodbridge, who had settled in a family state. The first residence of Mr. 
Woodbridge was on the " Hill," eastward from the house of Dea. Josiah Jones. He 
afterwards built a house on the farm now owned by Mr. Samuel Goodrich. In the 
course of 1737, Mr. Sergeant built the house on the " Plain," occupied at the present 
time by the widow of Gen. Silas Pepoon, and which is now the oldest house in town. 
He afterwards built the house on the Hill, now occupied by his grandson, Maj. Sewall 
Sergeant. In this he died. 

Ignorant of their language, Mr. Sergeant at first instructed the Indians, of neces- 
sity, by the aid of an interpreter. In this way he translated into their language some 
prayers for their daily use, and Watts's first catechism for the benefit of children. But 
as the disadvantages of this mode were many, he applied himself diligently to the 
study of the language, and in August, 1737, began to declare unto them in their own 
tongue the wonderful works of God. Afterwards he made such proficiency in it, that 
the Indians were accustomed to say he spoke their language better than they did. 

The effect of his labors upon the Indians was very happy. From 8 or 10 families 
they had increased to more than 50, during his ministry, had been reclaimed from 
many errors and vices, had assumed a stable character as a society, regularly attended 
public worship, had 20 houses built after the English manner, and paid considerable 



STOCKBRIDGE. 



attention to the cultivation of the earth. In singing they were great proficients. Fifty 
or sixty who had become hopeful converts were admitted to full communion by him ; 
some of whom died in the faith before him: 42 survived him. He baptized 182 na- 
tives, adults and infants. His services were also greatly useful to the English who 
settled here. 




Ancient House in Stockbridge. 

Tlie above is a south-eastern view of the house of Mr. Daniel 
B. Fenn, in the central part of Stockbridge village. It was built 
by Mr. Sergeant in 1737, and is the oldest house in the town. 
This house was occupied by the Rev. Jonathan Edwards while he 
resided in this town, and within its walls he completed his cele- 
brated production, " The Freedom of the Will," which is thought 
by many to be the greatest production of the human mind. His 
study was on the lower floor in the south-west corner of the build- 
ing, and was quite contracted in its limits, being but about five feet 
by four, as it appears by the marks of the partition still remain- 
ing. The walls of the house are lined with brick. After Presi- 
dent Edwards left it was occupied by Jehiel Woodbridge, Esq., then 
by Judge Sedgwick, then Gen. Silas Pepoon, and now by Mr. 
Fenn. 

Mr. Sergeant was a native of Newark, N. J,, and graduate of 
Yale College 1729. In stature he was rather small, but possessed 
a very intelligent, expressive countenance. He died on the 27th 
of July, 1749, and was succeeded in the labors of the mission by 
the Rev. Jonathan Edwards. He entered upon the same general 
course of instruction which his predecessor had pursued, and dis- 
charged his dtities with his wonted faithfulness, and to the good 
acceptance of both the people and commissioners. Besides per- 
forming his ministerial duties, he here wrote some of his greatest 
works. Mr. Edwards continued here till Jan., 1758, when he was 
dismissed, to take the presidency of Princeton College. At the 
time of his dismission, the number of Indian families were reduced 
to 42. Rev. Stephen West, of Tolland, Conn., and a graduate of 
Yale College, was ordained the next pastor of this church, June 
13th, 1759, and continued over them until the removal of the 
Indians to the state of New York. 



STOCKB RIDGE. 99 

This town was gradually settled by the English, who bought 
out the Indian rights one after another before their emigration. 
Some of the earliest white settlers, next to Mr. Sergeant and Mr. 
Woodbridge, were Col. Williams, .Tosiah Jones, Joseph Wood- 
bridge, Samuel Brown, Samuel Brown Jr., Joshua Chamberlain, 
David Pixley, John Willard, John Taylor, Jacob Cooper, Elisha 
Parsons, Stephen Nash, James Wilson, Josiah Jones Jun., Thomas 
Sherman, and Solomon Glezen. Families by the name of Ball, 
Hamilton, Cadwell, and Lynch were in the west part of the town, 
of Curtis and Churcliill in the north, and of Bradley and Williams 
in the east, at an early period. 

The great body of the people in this town have ever been C'on- 
gregationalists ; though there are some Episcopalians, a few Bap- 
tists and Methodists. The principal village, about half a mile in 
extent, is beautifully situated on the Plain, a tract of level land 
between " the Hill" and the Hoasatonic, moderately elevated above 
the river. It consists of about 40 dwelling-houses, a Congrega- 
tional church, a bank, and academy. The scenery of the town 
has been much admired by strangers. It is situated 6 miles S. of 
Lenox, 44 from Springfield, .59 from Hartford, ?>2 from Hudson, 
34 from Albany, and 130 W. of Boston. Population, 2,036. There 
are in the town a cotton mill with 3,780 spindles, 2 woollen mills 
with 8 sets of machinery, and 2 furnaces, one of which is for the 
manufacture of pig iron, of which in 1837 thirteen hundred and 
thirty-seven tons were made, valued at $53,480. 

[From the Boston Post Boy, Sept. 3, 1739.] 

"In a letter from a friend in the country, dated Aug. 21, 1739, we have the follow- 
ing passages. I have lately been to see my friends at Housato?inoe, (now called Stock- 
bridge,) and was well pleased to find the Indians so well improv'd, particularly in 
hasbandry, having good fields of Indian corn, and beans, and other sorts of grain, as 
oats, &c. They liave good fence about their field, made with their own hands. Some 
of them live in houses built after the English manner, and Capt. Concopot has built a 
barn that is well shingled, &c. They have several horses among them, and some 
cows, hogs, &C. They are many of them grown industrious and diligent in busi- 
ness ; I observed several young women sewing cloth, making shirts, &c. But I was 
in special gratify'd to find them improv'd in learning ; several of them have made good 
proficiency, can read in their Testaments and Bibles, and some of them can write a 
good hand : the children are in general as mannerly as you find in any country town. 
There are about 20 families of Indians that live there ; and now the great and general 
court have taken such effectual care, and put them in possession of the land, they 
have designed for them, (which hitherto they have been hindered from possessing,) 
I make no doubt but they will greatly increase in number ; for several Indians have 
been with them, and manifested a desire to tarry with them, could they have land to 
work upon. There is a church gather'd and fourteen Indian communicants ; the 
number of the baptiz'd is near sixty. While I was at Stockbridge, the Rev. Mr. Ser- 
geant (the minister there) was married to Mrs. Abigail Williams, a virtuous and 
agreeable young gentlewoman, daughter of Ephraim Williams, Esq. There were 
ninety Indians present at the marriage, who behaved with great gravity while the 
prayers were made, yea, during the whole solemnity ; and seem'd exceedingly well 
pleased that their minister was married ; they show him great respect, (Sec. And 1 
hope he may prove yet a great blessing among them, and be instrumental of turning 
many of them from darkness to light. 

lam your^s, (f-c" 

The following is the inscription on the monument of Mr. Ser- 
geant, in the grave-yard near the Congregational church. 

14 



J 00 T Y R I N G H A M . 

Here lies the body of the Rev. Mr. John Sergeant, who dy'd the 27th day of July, 
A. D. 1749 in the 4(3th year of his age. 

Where is that pleasing form I ask. thou canst not show, 
He's not within false stone, there's nought but dust below ; 
And Where's that pious soul that thinking concious mind, 
AVilt thou pretend vain cypher that's with thee inshrin'd ? 
Alas, my friend's not here with thee that I can find, 
Here's not a Sergeant's body or a Sergeant's mind: 
I'll seek him hence, for all's a like deception here, 
I'll go to Heaven, and I shall find my Sergeant there. 



TYRINGHAM 



The settlement of this town commenced in 1739. In April of 
that year Lieut. Isaac Garfield, Thomas Slaton, and John Chad- 
wick, moved into the place. In August following, Capt. John 
Brewer, from Hopkinton, moved into the town and put up a 
house ; and erected mills for the use of the inhabitants, agreeably 
to a contract with the proprietors, on the site of the present Lang- 
don mills. Concerning Capt. Brewer, it is worthy of notice that 
he was the father of 13 children, and his youngest child, Col. Jo- 
siah Brewer, (born in 1744,) had exactly the same number. In 
the French war beginning in 1744, several houses were fortified, 
and the fortifications were rebuilt upon the alarm produced by two 
or three murders in the vicinity, in August, 1755. The first and 
principal of these fortifications was around the house of Capt. 
Brewer, at which some soldiers were placed by the provincial gov- 
ernment. Among these were William Hale, Avho had assisted in 
building Fort Massachusetts, in Adams. He became a settler here 
as early as 1747, and was afterwards a deacon in the church. 
About 1750, John Jackson moved into the town from Weston, and 
persons by the names of Thomas and Orton ; and four brothers 
by the name of Warren, with their father Joshua, (the first person 
born in Watertown.) moved into it about the same time. The 
south part of the town, sometimes called South Tyringham, was 
generally settled at an early period ; but Hopbrook, or North Ty- 
ringham, was left as an insalubrious marsh for more than 20 years. 
The first log house in this section of the town was erected by Dea. 
Thomas Orton, about 1762. The first settlers were Congregational- 
ists, and in 1743 they erected a meeting-house. The church was 
formed of S members, Sept. 25. 1750, and on the 3d of October fol- 
lowing Rev. Adonijah Bidwell, a native of Hartford, Con., and 
graduate of Yale College in 1740, was ordained its pastor. In 
1796, the society built tlie second meeting-house near the old one, 
which was dedicated July 4, 1798. In 1782, a portion of the peo- 
ple became Shakers, and set up meetings at each other's houses, 
according to the customs of this sect. In 1792, they collected 
together in a body, and formed themselves into what they 
denominate church order. Their settlement is in the north part 
of the town, at Hopbrook, where they own nearly 2,000 acres of 
land. The spiritual concerns of the three settlements at Tyring- 



WASHINGTON. 101 

ham, Hancock, and Enfield, in Con., are superintended by a presid- 
ing elder, assisted by a subordinate elder in each settlement. After 
the close of the revolutionary war some Baptists moved into the 
town from Rhode Island, and there are also some families of 
Methodists. These denominations have meeting-houses in the 
north part of the town. 

This town is 7 miles in length and 5 in width. It was incor- 
porated by the general court May 18, 1762. It is said the name 
was given at the suggestion of liord Viscount Howe, who owned 
property at Tyringham in England, and who passed through this 
town a few days before he fell near Ticonderoga, July 6, 1758. 
This town is 14 miles S, E. of Lenox, and 116 W. of Boston. 
Population, 1,288. 



WASHINGTON 



This town was purchased of the Indians, in 1760, by a com- 
pany, most of which lived in Hartford and Suffield, Con. Some of 
the proprietors settled on their lands the same year. These were 
George Sloan, Andrew Mumford, William Milekan, Elijah Crane, 
Amos Beard, William Beard, .Toseph Knox, Nathan Ingraham, 
Joseph Chaplin, and Matthew DeWolf. After the settlement was 
commenced, the proprietors met with some difficulty by the pro- 
vince authorities claiming a right to the township ; whereupon 
Nathaniel Hooker, John Townly, and Isaac Sheldon, of Hartford, 
in behalf of themselves and 57 others, proprietors, in the begin- 
ning of 1762 petitioned the general court of Massachusetts to grant 
them the township. This grant was made in February of the \ 
following year, from which time till 1777 it was called Hartwood. -^ 
The church in this town was formed as early as 1772. After two 
unsuccessful etforts to settle a pastor, the Rev. William G. Ballan- 
tine, of Westfield. was ordained, June 1.5, 1774. The first meet- 
ing-house was built ill 1773, which stood till 1792, when a new 
one was erected. An Episcopal church, called St. .John's church, 
was formed here in 182.5. There are a considerable number of 
Baptists and also of Methodists in the town. 

This town was incorporated by its present name April 12, 1777. 
It being situated on the Green mountain range, the surface is 
uneven, diversified by hills and valleys. The township is well 
watered by pure springs and brooks, and furnishes in every part 
good farms for grazing. A few years since a considerable number 
of the principal farmers exchanged their improved farms in this 
place for new lands in Ohio, on the St. Lawrence, in New York, 
and elsewhere, and removed, by which the population and prop- 
erty of the town have been much diminished. This town is situ- 
ated 8 miles E. of Lenox, and 120 W. of Boston. Population, 758. 



T02 



WEST STOCKBRIDGE. 



WEST STOCKBRIDGE. 



mm^^m^zj^-^^^'^^ 




North-Tvestern vieiv of West Stockbridge Village. 

This town originally belonged to the Stockbridge Indians, and 
was sold by them in parcels to individual purchasers. The first 
person who settled in the town was Joseph Bryan, from Canaan, 
Conn., in 1766. In the fall of the same year Col. Elijah Williams, 
from Stockbridge, settled in that part of the town now called 
West Stockbridge village. Between this time and 1774, about 
40 families settled in the town, among whom were the families of 
Increase Hewings, Elisha Hooper, Lemuel Burghardt, Christopher 
Brazee, John Mmkler and Samuel Boynton, from different places 
in this state, and Ichabod Miller, Samuel Mudge, Elijah Slosson, 
Josiah Arnold, John Deming, Matthew Benedict, Roderic Messen- 
ger, Benjamin Lewis, John Ford, Ambrose Collins, and Amasa 
and James Spencer, from Connecticut 

The early settlers generally planted themselves down in the north part of the Xovra, 
where the lands are the most feasible and productive. The first meeting-house in this 
town was built in 1788, and the church organized June 4, 1789. Their first minister 
was the Rev. Oliver Ayres. The Baptist church was organized in 1792, and the 
society incorporated and a meeting-house built in 1794. The Rev. Samuel Whelpley, 
from Stockbridge, preached to them lor a number of years from the time the society 
was formed. 

This town was incorporated in 1774, and its name was derived from its relation to 
Stockbridge. Before its incorporation it was called Queensborough. A collection of 
rugged hills occupy the center of the town. Near the south-west corner is a mountain 
called Tom Ball, extending into Great Barrington and Alford, while Stockbridge moun- 
tain is on the eastern side. The south and south-eastern parts consist generally of 
rough, broken land. Lime quarries abound. There is much valuable marble in the 
town, of various colors ; some hardly less inferior in whiteness to snow, some parti- 
colored, mostly with blue; some is dove-colored, some is gray, and some is black. In 
Boynston's quarry, near the village, (in 1828.) an opening or fissure in the rocks, 
about 15 feet deep and from 18 to 4 inches in diameter, was charged with 204 pounds 
of powder. Upon firing it a mass of marble was raised, about 60 feet square on the 
surface and 8 feet thick, and at least twice that quantity was loosened. 

West Stockbridge village is situated near the north line of the town, on Williams' 
river, a mill stream passing through the whole extent of the town. It consists of about 
30 dwelling-houses, 2 churches, 1 Congregational and 1 Methodist, (erected in 1838,) 
and a number of mills for sawing marble. Stockbridge mountain rises immediately 
eastward of the village, and is the boundary between the towns. This place is 3 miles 
from Lenox, 5 from Stockbridge, 47 from Springfield, 63 from Hartford, 28 from Hud- 
son, 30 from Albany, and 135 from Boston. Population of the town, 1,244. 



W ILLI AI\1 STO W N. 



103 



W I L L I A M S T O W N 



This town is in the north-west corner of the state. It was ex- 
plored, together with the town of Adams, and the hmits traced, oy 
a committee of the general court, in 1749. The committee con- 
sisted of Col. Partridge, of Hatfield, and Col. Choate and Capt. 
Nathaniel Dwight, of Belchertown. Both towns were intended to 
be 6 miles square, but for some reasons they were laid out 7 miles 
in length and 5 in width. This township was called West Hoo- 
sic and the adjoining one East Hoosic. This was the Indian 
name of the tract embraced in these towns. The first meeting of 
the proprietors of which any record is preserved was held Dec. 5, 
1753, by virtue of a warrant of William Williams, Esq., of Pitts- 
field, " issued in pursuance of a vote of the general court of Mas- 
sachusetts Bay," Sept. 10,1753. But " the house lots" in the 
north part of the town were laid out previous to this meeting. 
The settlement of this town, like that of others of that day, was 
retarded by Indian hostilities. Nehemiah Smedley, William and 
Josiah Hosford, and some other young men, came to prepare for 
themselves and families a settlement here, it is beheved, in 1751 or 
52. But they were interrupted by the increasing hostility of the 
Indians in those years. Returning to Connecticut, they enlisted in 
a company raised to protect the frontiers, and came again with 
others to this place and garrisoned a fort, which stood a few rods 
north of the present meeting-house, and also a block-house near 
the west college. A few soldiers were kept here in garrison till 
1760. But the inhabitants were exposed to frequent alarms. Some 
were carried into captivity, and in an attack July 11, 1756, Capt. 
Chapin and two persons by the name of Cliidestree were killed. 
The dangers nearly ceased at the close of the French war. The 
following are most of the early settlers from the first, till about 
1770. 



Capt. Nehemiah Smedley, 

William Hosford, 

Josiah Hosford, 

Col. B. Simmons, 

Seth Hudson, 

Richard Stratton, 

Jonathan Meacham, 

James Meacham, 

Thomas Train, 

Thomas Dunton, 

Wilson Webb, 

Derrick Webb, 

Elkanah Paris, 

Capt. Isaac Searle, 

John Newbury, 

Elisha Higgins, 

Dea. Nathan Wheeler, 

Mr. Seely, 

Elisha Baker and Son, 

William Hine, 

Seth Lewis, 

David Nichols, 

Stephen Davis, 



Titus Harrison, 
Isaac Ovitt, 
Thomas Ovitt, 
Josiah Wright, 
Jesse Ryan, 
Samuel Birchard, 
Joseph Wheeler, 
Asa Johnson, 
Robert Hawkins, 
Derrick Smith, 
Joseph Talmadge, 
Elisha Higgins, 
Stephen Olmsted, 
Nathan Smith, 
Isaac Stratton, 
Daniel Burbank, 
Robert SIcMaster, 
John McIMaster, 
Moses Rich, 

Bartholomew Woodcock, 
Nehemiah Woodcock, 
David Johnson, 
Samuel Sloane, 



Alexander Sloane, 
Thomas Roe, 
Ichabod Southwick, 
Jesse Southwick, 
John Torrey, 
William Torrey, 
Capt. Samuel Clark, 
Moses Young, 
Andrew Young, 
William Young, 
Zebacliah Sabin, 
David Johnson, 2d, 
Asa Corben, 
Amasa Corben, 
Joseph Corben, 
Samuel Mills, 
Jonathan Sherwood, 
Samuel Sherwood, 
Isaac Sherwood, 

Deming, 

Lieut. Sampson Howe. 



Capt. Smedley (at the head of this list) had five brothers who settled in the place. 



104 WILLIAMSTOWN. 

The town received also a large number of inhabitants at differ- 
ent times, between 1770 and 1800, from Colchester, Con., among 
which were all the Buckleys, Bridgeses, Chamberlains, Days, 
Fords, J adds, Northams, Skinners, Tylers, Judah and Elisha 
Williams, Elijah, Thomas, and Solomon Wolcott, At a meeting 
of tlie proprietors, March 10, 1763, it was voted, "that for the 
future'' tiiey " would have preaching," and accordingly a call was 
given to Rev. Moses Warren to preach on probation. Two years 
after tliis, and immediately after the incorporation of the town, the 
proprietors called Mr. Whitman Welch " to the work of the min- 
istry in this town," July 26, 1765. His settlement was £80, 
($267) to be paid one half the first year, the other half the year 
following. His salary was at first £40, and was to be increased 
£3 annually, until it should amount to £70, and he was to have 
the use of the ministry-house lot. He was ordained the latter part 
of the year 1765, and continued the pastor of the church nearly 12 
years. 

Mr. Welch was a native of Milford, Con., and great-grandson of Thomas Welch, 
one of the 53 " first planters" of that town. His father dying early, the care of his 
education devolved on an uncle, with whom he went to reside in New Milford. He 
graduated at Yale College, in 17(32. He was a man of intelligence, and was social in 
his habits, and at suitable times gay and sportive. He was an animated preacher, 
and attentive to the duties of his otfice. In the winter of 1776, he went with the 
American army to Canada as chaplam, in a regiment to which a party belonged, 
commanded by Lieut. Zebadiah Sabin, of Williamstown. Mr. Welch died of the 
small-pox in March of the same year, near Quebec. 

The first proposal to build a meeting-house was in 1766, in De- 
cember of which year it was voted to build a house 40 feet by 30, 
and to raise £180 for this purpose. The house was erected in 
1768, and was occupied by the congregation for 30 years, when it 
was removed and fitted up for a town-house, and a new meeting- 
house erected, 76 feet in length and 55 in width, at the cost of about 
$6,000. The meeting-house at the south part of the town was 
erected by subscription in 1812, by the united exertions of Con- 
gregationalists and Baptists. There was early a small Baptist 
■congregation in this town. In May, 1791, the town refused " to 
incorporate MatthcAV Dunning and 14 others into a Baptist socie- 
ty," according to their petition. The next year " Isaac Holmes 
was chosen tythingman for the Baptist society in this town," 
{to7on 7'ecords). This church included some members from Han- 
cock, but was always small, and was dissolved in 1811. In 1814, 
another Baptist church was organized, which is now in a flourish- 
ing state. 

The principal street in WilliamstoMm passes over the highest part 
of three eminences ; on the first of which stands the east college and 
the chapel, on the second the west college, and on the third the 
Congregational church, from which the drawing for the engraving 
was taken. There are about 50 dwelling-houses near the colleges, 
standing compactly enough together to be called a village. This 
place is 20 miles from Pittsfield, 45 from Northampton, 14 from 
Bennington, 34 from Troy, and 135 miles from Boston. 



WILLIAMSTOWN 



105 



Williams College, in Williamstown, was founded in 1790, was 
incorporated June 22, 1793, and held its first commencement in 
1795, on the first Wednesday in September, which is still its anni- 
versary. It was thus called in honor of Col. Ephraim Williams, 
a native of Newton, near Boston, and eldest son of Col. Ephraim 




u vttir vj Williams College and otktr buildviL 



Williams, who was afterwards one of the first settlers of Stock- 
bridge, and a justice of the court of common pleas in the county 
of Hampshire. The following account of Williams College, and 
of Col. Williams its founder, is by the Rev. Chester Dewey, and is 
extracted from the History of Berksire County. 

" Col. Williams, the younger, led for a number of years a seafar- 
ing life, but was induced to relinquish it by the persuasion of his 
father. In his several voyages to Europe, in which he visited 
England, Spain, and Holland, he acquired graceful manners, and 
a considerable stock of useful knowledge. In the war between 
England and France, which continued from 1744 to 1748, he dis- 
tinguished himself as commander of a company in the army rais- 
ed in New England for the Canada service. After the peace, he 
retired a while to Hatfield, but was soon appointed commander of 
the line of Massachusetts forts on the west side of Connecticut 
river, and resided principally at Fort Massachusetts, which stood 
not far from the north-eastern end of Saddle mountain, on the 
north border of the Hoosic, in the edge of Adams, three and a 
half miles from Williamstown. Under the protection of this fort, 
and a small one in Williamstown, which stood a few rods north- 
west of the present site of the meeting-house, the settlers in this 
section of the county began their improvements. Col. Williams, 
who owned considerable land among them, was much conversant 
with them, witnessed their dangers, difliculties and hardships, and, 
for the purpose of encouraging them, intimated an intention of 
doing something liberal and handsome for them at a future time. 
In the second French war, in 1755, he was colonel of a regiment, 



106 W I L L I A M S T O W N . 

and was ordered to join Gen. Johnson at the north. On his way 
to that station, on the 22d of July in that year, he made his will 
at Albany. On the morning of the 8th of September following, 
he was ordered out at the head of a scouting party, 1,200 strong, 
and was shot through the head by an ambush party of French 
and Indians, near French mountain, a little east of that point of 
Lake George on which Fort George was built in 1759, in the 42d 
year of his age. His detachment returned to the main army, 
which the same day obtained a memorable victory over the 
enemy. 

In his will, after several bequests to his relatives and friends, 
he directed, " that the remainder of his land should be sold, at the 
discretion of his executors, within five years after an established 
peace ; and that the interest of the monies arising from the sale, 
and also the interest of his notes and bonds, should be applied 
to the support of a free school, in a township west of Fort Mas- 
sachusetts, forever; provided said township fall within Massachu- 
setts, upon running the line between Massachusetts and New 
York, and provided the said township when incorporated shall be 
called Williamstown :" otherwise it was to be applied to certain 
other pious and charitable uses. Both of these conditions took 
place. 

The executors of the will sold the land agreeably to the direc- 
tions of the testator, and by their provident and faithful manage- 
ment the fund was annually increased. In the year 178.5, they 
applied to the general court for an act to enable them to carry into 
effect the benevolent intention of the testator ; and an act was ac- 
cordingly passed, incorporating a free school in WUliamstown. 
Nine gentlemen were appointed trustees of the fund and of the 
school, viz. William Williams of Dalton, Theodore Sedgwick, 
Woodbridge Little, John Bacon, Thompson Joseph Skinner, 
Esquires, the Reverend Seth Swift and Daniel Collins, Mr. Israel 
Jones and Mr. David Noble, who voted in 1788 to erect a building 
for its use. The legislature granted them a lottery, which yield- 
ed about ,^3,500, the inhabitants of the town raised by subscrip- 
tion $2,000 more towards the building, and in 1790 the brick 
edifice, now the west college, was built on the middle eminence 
in the principal street, 82 feet long, 42 broad, four stories, contain- 
ing 28 rooms and a small chapel. The expense of the building 
was about ,^11,700, and the funds then remaining at interest 
amounted to about the same sum. 

The school was opened in October, 1791, under Mr. Ebenezer 
Fitch, a native of Canterbury, Conn., who had been a tutor at 
Yale College. It consisted of two departments, an academy or 
grammar school, and an English free school : and, under the direc- 
tion of this gentleman, immediately became prosperous. A con- 
siderable number of students resorted to it from Massachusetts 
and the neighboring states, and even from Canada. Upon the de- 
sire of the people of Williamstown and others, and to effect more 
perfectly the object of the donor, the legislature, in June, 1793, 



WILLIAMSTOWN. 107 

erected this into a college, and accompanied the charter with a 
grant of ^4,000. The trustees of the original school, together with 
Henry Van Schaack, Esq., of Pittsfield, Elijah Williams, Esq., of 
Deerfield, and the Rev. Stephen West, were constituted trustees of 
the college. In the charter it was provided that the trustees might 
be seventeen in nmnber, (of whom the president ex officio is one,) 
that they might fill their own vacancies, and hold property, the 
annual income of which shall amount to ,'$20,000. Mr. Fitch, 
now the Rev. Dr. Fitch, was elected president, and the college be- 
gan its operations in October of this year, by the admission of 
three small classes. The English free school was discontinued, 
but the academy continued for some years in connection with the 
college. In 1 794, a lot was purchased and a house built for the 
president, which together cost $2,400. In January, 1796, the 
legislature granted to the president and trustees, two townships 
of land in the district of Maine, which were sold in May for about 
$10,000 ; which, with a considerable sum besides, were applied in 
1797 and 8 to build the east college. This stands on the eastern 
eminence in the principal street, about 60 rods from the other col- 
lege, on the south side of the road. This is also of brick, 104 feet 
long, 28 broad, four stories, containing 32 suites of rooms. Both 
colleges front the east. 

Two townships have since been granted to the college, and sold 
less advantageously. The college also received from the com- 
monwealth three thousand dollars annually for ten years, begin- 
ning with 1814; the interest of one fourth of which ($7,500) is 
applied annually to the payment of the bills of such students as 
need assistance. Woodbridge Little, Esq., of Pittsfield, one of the 
first trustees, made a donation of $2,500 in 1811, and raised the 
sum to near $5,700 at the time of his death, in June, 1813; the 
interest of which is applied also to assist young men intended for 
the Christian ministry. In 1820, more than $17,500 were added 
to the funds of the college by subscription ; and in 1826, $25,000 
more were raised in the same manner, for the establishment of a 
new professorship, and the erection of a new chapel. In the sum- 
mer of 1828, the chapel was erected, and on the 2d of September 
dedicated to the service of God. It is of brick, stands on the op- 
posite side of the road from the east college, facing the south, 93 
feet long, 38 wide, and three stories high. It contains, besides the 
large and convenient room for the chapel, a chemical laboratory, 
lecture rooms, apartments for the philosophical apparatus, the 
mineralogical collection, the libraries, the meetings of the trustees, 
&c. In addition to the buildings already mentioned, the corpora- 
tion own a house and lot, designed for the accommodation of one 
of the professors, and a right in the meeting-house. 

The fast property of the college, with the library, apparatus, 
and cabinet of minerals, has cost about $44,000, and the produc- 
tive fund is $66,000. 

The college hbrary is a choice selection of books, amounting 
to little more than 2,000 volumes. The library of the students, 

15 



108 WILLIAMSTOWN. 

called the Adelphic Union Library, the Hbrary of the Theologi- 
cal Society, and a collection of class books, called the Franklin 
Library, for the immediate use of the indigent students, amount to 
about half that number. 

The philosophical and chemical apparatus is well selected. 

The immediate instruction and government of the college is 
placed in the president, professors and tutors, who compose the 
faculty. Besides the president and tutors, there is established a 
professorship of divinity, of law, of moral philosophy and rhet- 
oric, of mathematics and natural philosophy, of chemistry and 
natural history, and of languages, and a lectureship of anatomy. 
There was formerly a professorship of the French language. 

The terms of admission and the course of instruction are the 
same substantially as in the other New England colleges. 

With this college, the Berkshire Medical Institution, at Pittsfield, 
is connected. 

Williamstown was incorporated by the general court of Massa- 
chusetts in 1765. The township is nearly 7 miles in length and a 
httle more than 5 in breadth. The general character of the 
soil is clayey, though loam predominates in some places, and a 
few spots of some extent may be called gravelly. Some of the 
best lands lie along the Hoosic, particularly in the eastern part 
of the town, though not a very large tract can properly be called 
meadow. A tract of considerable extent in the south part of the 
town, about the junction of the two principal branches of Green 
river, and along up those streams, is also particularly fertile and 
beautiful. But the hills also, and generally the mountain sides, 
almost, and sometimes quite, upto their tops, have a good and in 
many places an excellent soil, suited both to grazmg and tillage, 
though generally best for the former. In 1837, there were in the 
town 2,000 Saxony sheep, merino sheep 5,800, other kinds of 
sheep 200; Saxony wool produced, 5,000 lbs., merino wool, 17,400 
lbs. ; 1 cotton and 2 woollen mills. Population, 1,981. 



The following facts, though remarkable, are not solitary ; seve- 
ral similar cases are recorded. 

In 1806, a strong and beautiful biig eat out of a table made from an apple-tree, 
which grew on the farm of Maj. Gen. Putnam, in Brooklyn, Con., and which was 
brought to Williamstown when his son, Mr. P. S. Putnam, removed to that town. It 
was cut down in 178t). sixty-five years after it was transplanted, and if the tree was 
then fifteen years old, it was 80 years old when cut down. As the cortical layers of 
the /eo/of the table are about sixty, and extend within about /ye of the heart, as the 
inner ones are quite convex, about fifteen layers have been cut off from the outside. 
In 1814, a third bug made his way out, the second having appeared two or three years 
before. The last bug came forth from nearest the heart, and 45 cortical layers distant, 
on the supposition of its age, from the outside. The tree had now been cut down 28 
years. Of course, the egg must have been deposited in the wood seventy-three years 
before. This bug eat about three inches along the grain, till it emerged into the light. 
The eating of the insect was heard for weeks l)efore its appearance. These /ac?5 were 
given by Mr. Putnam, in whose possession the table still remains, and were first pub- 
lished in the Repertory at Middlebury, Vt., in 1816. One of the bugs, preserved for 



WINDSOR. 



109 



some time by the Rev. Dr. Fitch, "was about an inch and one fourth long, and one 
third inch in diameter ; color, dark glistening brown, with tints of yellow."— Hist, of 
Berkshire, p. 39. 



WINDSOR 



This township was purchased at Boston, by Noah Nash, for 
£1,430, on the 2d of June, 1762, and called, among the townships 
purcliased at that time, No. 4. When it was incorporated in 1771, 
it was called Gageborough, in honor of General Gage, then British 
governor of Massachusetts. In 1778, at the request of the inha- 
bitants, the general court gave to it its present name. The first 
inhabitants of the town were Joseph Chamberlain and Ephraim 
Keyes, from Ashford, Con., Edward Walker, from Hadley, John 
Hall, .Tereraiah Cady, and Josiah Lawrence, from Plain field. Con. 
Though Mr. Hall has many descendants still living here, he soon 
moved to Castleton, Vermont, and was killed by a party of Indians, 
about the time of the capture of Burgoyne. The first child born 
in the place was a daughter of Mr. Lawrence ; born May, 1768. 

For many years the people had but one place of worship, and 
most of the inhabitants are yet Congregationalists. The first 
meeting-house erected was unfortunately burnt before it was com- 
pleted. The present brick meeting-house was built in 1823, and 
dedicated the next year, on the 7th of January. The first church 
was formed in 1772, and on the 25th of March, 1773, the Rev. 
David Avery, a native of Groton, Con., and graduate of Yale 
College, 1769, was installed their pastor, having been previously 
ordained an evangelist. He was dismissed April 14, 1777, that 
he might accept the office of chaplain in the army of the United 
States, during the revolutionary war. He was much esteemed by 
the people here, who were extremely unwilling to part with him. 
A second Congregational church was formed in the autumn of 
1811, in the north-east part of the town, with 20 members, taken 
principally from the church in Windsor. A few families in Savoy 
united with them, and they held their meetings, for a time, in a 
dwelling-house, fitted up for the purpose, on the line between the 
two towns. The Rev. Jephthah Poole, from Plainfield, was 
ordained their pastor Oct. 11, 1811. There is a Baptist society in 
this town, who erected their meeting-house in 1819. Elder Noah 
Y. Bushnel preached to them for some years. 

This township is about 7 miles in length and 5 in breadth. The 
surface is uneven. A height of land lies a little west of the center, 
in a north and south direction, from which the descent is gradual, 
both to the east and west. On the east side rises Westfield river, 
and on the west the Housatonic. The origin and sources of these 
streams are but a few rods apart, a little south of the Congrega- 
tional meeting-house. On the Housatonic, in the south-west part 
of the town, near the line of Dalton, are falls, judeed to be about 



110 



ATTLEBOROUGH 



70 feet. Though the quantity of water is not great, yet it is pre- 
cipitated down the rock with such violence that it affords a pros- 
pect truly sublime. The soil of the township is various ; in the 
eastern section it is sandy. In general it is well adapted to grazing 
and mowing. In 1837, there were in the town 7,157 sheep, pro- 
ducing wool to the value of $10,500. This town is situated 18 
miles N. N. E. of Lenox, and 120 W. by N. of Boston. Popula- 
tion 887. 



BRISTOL COUNTY. 

This county was incorporated in 1685. The surface of the 
county is somewhat broken, but generally level and sandy. It 
has a maritime coast of considerable extent, and many of the inha- 
bitants of this county are engaged in navigation, and a large num- 
ber employed in manufactures. Iron ore is found in large quanti- 
ties in various parts. Taunton and Pawtucket rivers, both passing 
into Narragansett Bay, are the principal streams, and there is abun- 
dant water-power in many of the towns. The tonnage of the two 
districts in this county (New Bedford and Dighton.) is 75,188 
tons. In 1837, there were 57 cotton mills, having 104,507 spindles ; 
4,814,238 lbs. of cotton were consumed, and 18,382,828 yards of 
cotton goods were manufactured, the value of which was $1,678,- 
226. Population of the county in 1837 was 58,152. The follow- 
ing is a list of the towns. 



Attleborough; 

Berkley, 

Dartmouth, 

Dighton, 

Easton, 



Fairhaven, 
Fall River, 
Freetown, 
Mansfield, 
New Bedford, 



Norton, 

Pawtucket, 

Raynham, 

Rehoboth, 

Seekonk, 



Somerset, 
Swansey, 
Taunton, 
Westport, 



ATTLEBOROUGH. 

In 1661, Capt. Thomas Willett, of Rehoboth, having been em- 
powered by the court, purchased of Wamsitta, a sachem of Poka- 
noket, a tract of land, which was called the Rehoboth North Pur- 
chase. It was bounded west by Pawtucket river, now the Black- 
stone ; north by the Massachusetts colony, or the Bay line ; east by 
the Taunton North Purchase ; and south by the ancient Rehoboth, 
This purchase included Attleborough, Cumberland, R. I., and a tract 
extending east and west a mile and a half The land was divided 
into seventy-nine and a half shares. The following are the names 
of the purchasers.* 



* This list is copied from the History of Attleborough, by John Daggett, Esq. It is to 
this work the autiior is almost entirely indebted for the history of this town. 



ATT LEKO ROUGH 



111 



Capt. Thomas Willett, 
Mr. Stephen Paine, 
Mr. Noah Newman, 
Lieut. Peter Hunt, 
Mr. James Browne, 
Samuel Newman, 
John Alien, sen., 
John Woodcock, 
Thomas Estabrooke, 
Thomas Willmot, 
Sampson Mason, 
Anthoney Perry, 
John Butterworth, 
Philip Walker, 
John Ornisby, 
Kichard Martin, 
Stephen Paine, 
Rober Joans, 
Obadiah Bowen, 
John Pecke, 
James Redeway, 
Samuel Carpenter, 
John Titus, 
Mr. John Myles, 
William Carpenter, 
Joseph Pecke, 
Thomas Cooper, 
Ensign Henery Smith, 



Thomas Cooper, sen., 
Samuel Pecke, 
William Buckland, 
Joseph Buckland, 
Benjamin Buckland, 
John Reade, sen.. 
John Reade, jr., 
Nicholas Pecke, 
Elizabeth Winchester, 
Hannah Winchester, 
Lydia Winchester, 
Daniel Smith, 
Jonathan Bliss, 
Rice Leonard, 
William Saben, 
John Perrin, sen., 
George Kendricke, 
George Robenson, 
John Doggett, 
John Fitch, 
Richard Bowen, 
Elizabeth Bullucke, 
John Miller, 
Robert Fuller, 
Robert Wheaten, 
Ester Hall, 
John Miller, sen., 
Jaret Ingraham, 



John Tiingsiey, 
Gilbert Brookes, 
Thomas Reade, 
Thomas Grant, 
Jonathan Fuller, 
James Gillsoii, 
Samuel Luther, 
Nicholas Tanner, 
John Allen, jr.. 
Preserved Abell, 
Francis Stephens, 
Nicholas Ide, 
Richard Whittaker, 
Nathaniel Pecke, 
Israel Pecke, 
Jonah Palmer, 
Robert Miller, 
Nathaniel Paine, 
Jeremiah Wheaton, 
Joanna Ide, 
,Iohn Savage, 
Thomas Ormsby, 
Jacob Onnsby, 
John Policy, 
William Allen, 
John Lovell, 
Eldad Kingsley. 



The first settlement in the town was commenced by Mr. John 
Woodcock and liis sons, in the neighborhood of the Baptist meeting- 
house, where Hatch's tavern now stands : it was soon after the 
division in 1669. He built a public house on the Bay road, and. 
laid out about 300 acres of land for his farm. He took up in seve- 
ral parts of the toAvn about 600 acres, some on his own shares, and 
the rest on rights which he purchased of Roger Amidowne, James 
Redeway, Andrew Willett, &xj. His house was occupied for a 
garrison. It was licensed in 1670, according to the following 
record: "July 5th, 1670. John Woodcock is allowed by the court 
to keep an ordinary at the Ten-mile river (so called), which is in 
the way from Rehoboth to the Bay ; and likewise enjoined to keep 
good order, that no unruliness or ribaldry be permitted there." 
Woodcock was a man of some consequence in those days. His 
name often appeared in town offices and on committees. In 1691, 
he was chosen deputy to the general court from Rehoboth, and at 
several other times. He was shrewd, hardy, and brave. He did 
not much regard the rights of the Indians. On one occasion, he 
took the liberty of paying himself a debt due to him from an 
Indian, without his consent, for which act the court passed the 
following sentence upon him ; an example of the strict justice of 
the Puritans. 

" 1654. John Woodcock, of Rehoboth, for going into an Indian 
house, and taking away an Indian child and some goods, in lieu 
of a debt the Indian owed him, was sentenced to sit in the stocks 
at Rehoboth on a training-day, and to pay a fine of forty shillings." 
Woodcock died in 1701, at an advanced age. After his death the 



112 



ATTLEBOROUGH 



scars of seven bullet-holes were counted on his body. He was a 
strong and implacable enemy to the Indians. His garrison was 
well known as a place of rendezvous in the great Indian war. It 
was part of a chain of fortifications extending from Boston to 
Rhode Island. There was one in Boston, one in Dedham, one in 
Rehoboth, and one at Newport, on the island. This stand, now 
owned and occupied by Col. Hatch, is the oldest in the county of 
Bristol : a public house has been kept on the spot without intermis- 
sion nearly one hundred and seventy years. It is located on the 
Boston and Providence turnpike. 

In 1S06, the old garrison was torn down, having stood one hun- 
dred and thirty-six years. The greater part of the timber was 
said ro be perfectly sound, though pierced by many a bullet in 
king Philip's time. A large and elegant building has been erected 
on the spot. There was another early settlement at the Falls, 
now the Falls Factories. The advantage of a fine fall of water 
attracted many to the spot. John Daggett, of Rehoboth, was the 




West view of Atthborough. 

first person who laid out lands at the Falls. In 1677, he sold 50 
acres of it to his brother, Thomas Daggett, of Martha's Vineyard. 
Edmund Hall also owned 50 acres here, which he gave to his son 
John, who sold it to John Stevenson and Samuel Penfield, in 1686. 
Penfield sold it to Thomas Daggett, of Edgartown, and Joseph 
and Nathaniel Daggett, of Rehoboth. 

The first mill built at the Falls was a corn-mill, owned and 
occupied by Joseph Daggett. The south-east part of the town 
was early settled by people from Rehoboth. The borders of the 
Bay road that passed through the neighborhood of Newell's and 
the City, were occupied by some of the first settlers. This was 
the first road in town. 

The above is a view taken in the principal village in Attlebo- 
Tough. The Boston and Providence railroad passes through it, 



AT TL EB ORO U GH. 113 

and is but a few rods eastward of the Congregational church seen 
in the engraving. The " Attleborough Bank," in this village, is 
the first building westward of the church. This place is 11 miles 
from Taunton, 11 from Providence, and 21 from Boston. Popula- 
tion of the town, 3,396. The foUowhig is from the statistical tables, 
published by the state in 1837. Cotton mills, 8 ; cotton spindles, 
13,078 ; cotton consumed, .510,680 lbs. ; cotton goods manufac- 
tured, 2,500,811^yards; value of the same, $229,571; males em- 
ployed. 157 ; females, 220 ; capital invested, .$259,000 ; manufac- 
tory of metal buttons, 1 ; metal buttons manufactured, 37,560 
gross ; value of the same, $90,000 ; males employed, 42 ; femaleSj 
21 ; capital invested, $90,000 ; value of jewelry manufactured, 
$92,000; hands employed, 112; capital invested, $50,000; value 
of planing machines manufactured, $40,000 ; hands employed, 15 ; 
capital invested, $18,000 ; value of boots and shoes manufactured, 
$10,000. 

The Rev. Matthew Short was the first settled minister in this 
town; he was ordained in 1712. Difficulties between him and his 
people soon conmienced, which resulted in iiis dismission in 1715. 
According to the agreement made with Mr. Short, he was to be 
paid £50 a year, for the first six years, one third in money, and the 
other two thirds in grain, beef, pork, butter or cheese, at the cur- 
rent price. =^ " At the 7th year, his salary was to be raised to £60, 
payable as above, and then to continue until there should be 100 
families in town capable of paying public taxes, in the judgment 
of the selectmen, and then it was to be £70 per annum." The 
second minister was Rev. Ebenezer White ; he was the pastor 
for 11 years, and died in 1726. He was succeeded by the Rev. 
Habijah Weld. He was distinguished for his usefulness in the 
ministry, and highly respected as a man, both at home and 
abroad. He united, to an uncommon degree, the affections of 
his people, for a period of 55 years, during which he was 
their pastor. He was a man of talents and respectable acquire- 
ments, and was extensively known. He was ordained in 1727, 
and died 1782, in the 80th year of his age. 

" Mr. Weld was below the middle stature, and, in the latter part of his life, corpu- 
lent. His constitution was vigorous, and his mind almost singularly energetic. The 
stipend he received from his parishioners consisted of an annual salary of two hun- 
dred and twenty dollars, and the use of a parsonage-lot, which furnished him with 
wood and a little pasture. With his patrimony, he purchased a farm of about 70 
acres, of moderately good land, and a decent house. He had fifteen children, ten of 
whom were married during his life, and one after his death. The remaining four 
died while young. This numerous family he educated, with the means which have 
Deen mentioned, in a manner superior to what is usually found in similar cir- 
cumstances ; entertained much company in a style of genuine hospitality; and was 
always prepared to contribute to the necessities of others. For the regulation of his 
domestic concerns, he prescribed to himself and his family a fixed system of rules, 
which were invariably observed, and contributed not a little to the pleasantness and 
prosperity of his life. His children, laborers, and servants, submitted to them with 

* These articles were then valued as follows. Corn, 2s. 6d. per bushel ; rye, 3s. 6d. 
per bushel ; pork, 3d. per lb. ; beef, 2d. per lb. ; butter, 6d. ; and good new milk cheese, 
4d. per lb. 



114 ATT L EB ROU GH . 

cheerfulness; and his house became the seat of absolute industry, peace, and good 
order. Breakfast was on the table precisely at six o'clock, dinner at twelve, and sup- 
per at six in the evening. After supper he neither made visits himself, nor permitted 
any of his family to make them."' From the death of Mr. Weld to the settlement of 
Mr. "Wilder, in 1790, nearly 8 years, the first parish was destitute of a settled minis- 
ter. Rev. John Wilder was dismissed Nov. 28, 1822, having been settled upwards of 
32 years. 

The first meeting of the East Parish was on the 6th June, 1743. On the 20th a 
meeting was called "to consider and see what the parish will do in order to placing 
a meeting-house for the public worship of God." This is the first record of an attempt 
to build a meetinghouse in this part of the town. The Rev. Peter Thatcher, their 
first minister, was ordained in 1748. The second meeting-house was built in 1825. 

The North Baptist Church was constituted in 1769. Its existence may be traced 
back as early as 1747. It was a small and feeble church, and of the Congregational 
order, though differing from that denomination in some respects. In 17tJ9, they, by a 
vote, changed their constitution from a Congregational to a Baptist church, in what is 
called open communion. Previous to this, in 1767, the church moved Mr. Abraham 
Eloss from Sturbridge to Attleborough ; he preached to them till his death in 1769. 
He was succeeded by Elder Job Seamans, of Sackville, Cumberland county, then in 
Nova Scotia ; he requested a dismission in 1788, which was granted. His successor 
was Elder Abner Lewis, who was settled 1789, and continued until 1795, when he 
was dismissed. After this, Mr. Laben Thurber preached two years, and then gave 
up the otfice of the ministry. He was followed by Elder James Reed, who commenced 
preaching here in 1800. He gave so much satisfaction, that in December of the same 
year the church invited him to settle, which invitation he accepted. He was installed 
in 1801. He died in 1814, universally respected as a man. His successor was the 
Rev. Stephen S. Nelson, who settled in 1815, and was dismissed in 1820. The first 
meeting-house was not finished till 1784. The present house was built in 1817. 

South Baptist. The records of this church cannot be found. In 1789, the first and 
second churches in Attleborough met and agreed upon fellowship as sister churches. 
Elder Eiihu Daggett was the first preacher. The next in succession was Elder Eli- 
sha Carpenter, who settled in 1780, and continued till 1798, when he removed to Pro- 
vidence. This church is now extinct. 

First Universalist Society was incorporated in 1818. The first minister was the Rev. 
Richard Carrique, who was ordained 1818, and dismissed in 1822. His successor was 
the Rev. Robert Kilham, who commenced preaching in 1822, and was dismissed in 
1828. 

Hebronvilh Church was gathered by Rev. Thomas Williams, after his dismission from 
the west parish in 1827. A small but neat house was built on the line between Attle- 
borough and Seekonk, half in one town and half in the other, to which and the neigh- 
borhood was given the name of Hebronville by the founder. Mr. Williams' connec- 
tion with the church was dissolved in 1832. 

Rev. Naphtali Daggett^ D. Z>., president of Yale College, a 
native of this town, was born 1727. His ancestor, John Daggett, 
ancestor of all the Daggetts here and in Connecticnt, came to 
Attleborough from Chilmark, Martha's Vineyard, in 1709. 

Rev. Naphtali Daggett entered Yale College in 1744, and graduated in 1748. He 
was settled as minister of Smithtown, on Long Island, in 1751. In 1755 he was 
elected Professor of divinity in Yale College, which he accepted, and removed to New 
Haven. After the resignation of Mr. Clap in 1766, he officiated as president till 1777. 
During the barbarous attack on New Haven in July, 1779, he distinguished himself 
for the part he took in the defence of the country. He had made himself obnoxious 
by his bold opposition to the British cause. In the pulpit and in the lecture-room, he 
inculcated upon the students the duty of resisting British oppression; consequently he 
incurred the marked displeasure of the invaders. What he preached, that he practised. 
When the enemy landed, he shouldered his musket to repel them. He was taken pri- 
soner, and treated with all possible indignity. His clerical character did not exempt 
him from their most outrageous abuse. When asked by them who he was, he imme 
diately replied, ^'^ My name is Naphtali Daggett; I am one of the officers of Yale Col- 
lege. I require you to release me." " But we understand that you have been pray- 
ing against our cause." " Yes, and I mver made more sincere prayers in my lifi.'' He 



BERKLEY 



115 



was saved by the courage of the lady into whose house he had been conveyed. The 
enemy having retired, they sent back an officer and file of soldiers to convey him as 
prisoner on board their fleet. They came to the house, and were refused admittance 
by the lady, who pleaded the excuse that he was so badly wounded that it would be 
impossible to convey him on board alive. "My orders," said the ofticer, " are positive 
to take iiim with me." But she pleaded that he was in the agonies of death. After 
continual demands and refusals, the officer left to report the case, but never returned. 
He died in 1780, in consequence of the wounds he had received in his engagement 
with the British. He held the office of professor of divinity twenty-five years, and 
presided over the University about eleven years. 

The following inscriptions are from monuments in this town. 

Bezaleel Mann, mort. die Octo. tert. 1796, an. setat. 74. Early imbued with the prin- 
ciples of moral rectitude, he sustained through the diversified concerns of a long and 
active life, the character of an honest man. As a physician, he commanded, during 
the period of ne.ar 50 years, that unlimited confidence and respect which talents alone 
can inspire. The features of his mind were sketched by the glowing pencil of nature, 
filled up with qualities that adorn huinauity, and shaded with few infirmities, the fre- 
quent attendants on mental excellence. 

"Bebe Mann, his wife, mort. die Octo. tert. 1793, getat. 61. She was a person of 
bright genius, of few words and much reserved in mind. From early youth, she 
marked all her paths with virtue, and timely took the advice Christ gave to his disci- 
ples, and made to herself a friend of the mammon of unrighteousness, and, when she 
failed, could with christian confidence say, that her witness was in heaven and her 
reward on high." This stone is erected by the grateful hand of filial piety to protect 
the awful dust of revered parents. 

In memory of Dr. Herbert Mann, who with 119 sailors, with Capt. James Magee, mas- 
ter, went on board the Brig General Arnold in Boston Harbor 25th Dec. 1778, hoisted 
sail, made for sea, and were immediately overtaken by the most tremendous snow 
storm with cold, that was ever known in the memory of man, and unhappily parted 
their cable in Plymouth harbor, in a place called the Cow-yards, and he with about 
100 others was frozen to death ; sixty-six of whom were buried in one grave. He 
was in the 21st year of his age. And now Lord God Almighty, just and true are all 
thy ways, but who can stand before thy cold ? 

The following is an epitaph on the negro slave Csesar, who was 
given to Lieut. Josiah Maxcy by his mother when he was a child. 
He was a member of the Baptist church, honest and faithful. He 
survived his first master, and after his own death was buried in 
the same grave-yard. A decent stone was erected to his memory 
by his younger master, Levi Maxcy, with this inscription, which 
may be seen in the north-east corner of the burying-ground, near 
Hatch's tavern. 



Here lies the best of slaves 
Now turning into dust; 
Csesar the Ethiopian craves 
A place among the just. 

His faithful soul has fled 
To realms of heavenly light. 



And by the blood that Jesus shed 
Is changed from Black to White. 

January 15, he quitted the stage, 
In the 77th year of his age. 
1780. 



BERKLEY. 

This town, situated on the east side of Taunton river, was for- 
merly a part of Dighton. It was incorporated in 1735. It is 5 
miles S. of Taunton, 18 E. of Providence, and 37 S. of Boston. 
Population, 878. In five years previous to 1837, there were 13 

16 



116 DA R TBTOUTH . 

vessels built ; tonnage of the same, 1,267 ; valued at $-38,010. This 
place has about ten sail of coasting vessels, and some iron ore. 
The celebrated " Dighton" or " Writing Hock " is in the limits 
of this town, being situated on the eastern shore of Taunton river, 
which divides tliis town from Dighton. For a description of this 
rock, see Dighton. 



D A R T M () U T H 



This town was incorporated in 1664, and formerly included 
-within its limits the present towns of Westport, New Eedford and 
Fairhaven. During Philip's war a great part of this town was 
laid desolate and many of the inhabitants killed. The most of 
the Plymouth forces were ordered thither. In coming to Russell's 
garrison at Ponaganset or A/Jonaganset, in this town, they met 
with a number of the enemy th<it liad surrendered themselves 
prisoners on terms promised by Captain Eels of the garrison, and 
Ralph Earl, who persuaded them to come in, by a friendly Indian 
whom he employed. It is to be regretted, however, that, notwith- 
standing the promises made by the above persons to the Indians, 
they were by the superior authorities carried away to Plymouth, 
" then sold and transported out of the country, being about eight 
score persons." That part of Dartmoutli which was destroyed 
is about 5 miles S. W. of New Bedford. The cellars of Russell's 
garrison are still to be seen. They are on the north bank of the 
Aponaganset, about a mile from its mouth. It is stated that the 
Indians had a fort on the opposite side of the river, and used to 
show themselves, and act all manner of mockery to aggravate the 
English, they being at more than a common gunshot off. It is 
related, however, that an Indian came out at one time, and, hav- 
ing turned his back sides, as usual, in a contemptuous manner 
towards the English, some one, having an uncommonly long gun, 
fired, and put an end to his mockery. 

Dartmouth is principally a farming and fishing town ; the cen- 
tral part of which is about 3 miles from New Bedford, and 21 
from Taunton. There are 3 postoffices, Dartmouth, (at Smith's 
Mills,) North Dartmouth, and South Dartmouth. This last place 
is called Padan Aram ; it is a fishing village, containing a Congre- 
gational church, and perhaps 50 or 60 dwelling-houses. There 
are in the limits of the town 4 houses of worship for Friends, 3 for 
Baptists, 2 of which are Christian, 1 Congregationalist, and 1 for 
Methodists. Population of the town. 3,958. In 1837, 5 vessels 
were employed in the whale fishery; tonnage of the same, 1,490; 
sperm oil imported, 74,000 gallons ; whale oil imported, 73,978 
gallons ; hands employed in the whale fishery, 129. There were 
13 establishments for the manufacture of salt ; ship-building is car- 
ried on to some extent. 



DI G H T N 



117 



D I G H T O N . 

This town was incorporated in 1712, previous to which time it 
formed a part of the town of Taunton. It is finely situated on 
the west side of Taunton river, and is a port of entry. About 
half a mile from the landing place for sloops, there is a village of 
about 20 dwelling-houses, 7 miles from Taunton and 43 from 
Boston. Population of the town, 1,453. There are 3 cotton mills, 
with 3,564 spindles; a woollen mill, furnace, and nail factory. 
Ship-building is also carried on. 




Dighton Rock as seen from Dightoii Shore. 

The celebrated " Dighton Rock,^' the inscriptions on which 
have caused such a variety of speculations, is on the Berkley side 
of the river, opposite the landing place mentioned above. The 
engraving shows the appearance of the rock and the surrounding 
objects as seen from the Dighton shore. The " Writing Rock," as 
it is sometimes called, is the one by which two persons are seen 



^ -^^ .^ '/ 



'/7: 









J 





Western side of Dighton Bock. 

Standing. The above shows the shape of the rock, with some- 
thing of the appearance of the inscriptions upon it; which are^ 



118 DIGHTON. 

to some extent, followed in the engraving. The lower part of 
this stone is generally covered to the dotted line at high water. 
Several drawings of these inscriptions have been taken at various 
periods ; the inscriptions, however, are so indefinite, that no two 
of them agree entirely with each other. Several of these draw- 
ings have been copied and recently published in Copenhagen, in 
a splendid work on the Antiquities of America. It is the opinion 
of some learned men, that these inscriptions are the work of the 
Norwegian adventurers who it is supposed visited this coast about 
the year 1000 of the Christian Era. The following account of this 
rock is extracted from the second volume of Kendall's Travels. 
Mr. Kendall travelled through the northern parts of the United 
States in 1807 and 1808 ; he made a careful examination of the 
Dighton Rock, visiting it several times for the purpose. 

" The rock is an insulated mass of fine-grained gray granite or grunstein, lying 
north-west and south-west, on the sands of the river, a few feet above the present low- 
water mark, but covered at every tide. Its length is eleven feet, and its height four 
and a half. Toward the land, its form is broken and irregular, but inclining gradu- 
ally outward from the summit to the base ; toward the water, it presents a regular 
face, and nearly smooth, forming an inclined plane, of about sixty degrees elevation. 
Of this face, which is of the length of the rock, and about five feet broad, the whole 
appears to have been originally filled with sculptures ; but those immediately at the 
base, if such there were, are now entirely worn away. A little above, sculptures dis- 
cover themselves but faintly ; while those at the summit are very perfect. 

"The whole is composed of outlines, hollowed, or cut in intaglio, and of which the 
breadth is generally less than an inch, and the depth, where deepest, does not exceed 
half an inch. From the appearance of the sculpture, and from the hardness of the 
stone, it is probable that the upper parts have suffered little injury ; and yet the edges 
are here broken, and the whole execution appears barbarous. The different states of 
preservation, observable in the lower figures and the upper, may be attributed to the 
action of the water, and perhaps to the collision of floating bodies of ice, both of 
which agents must operate on the lower part of the stone in a greater degree than on 
the upper; the upper being covered, at every tide, for a much shorter space of time 
than the lower. The alternate action of salt and the atmosphere have produced an 
equal diversity of color on the surface of the stone; the upper part being of a deep 
red or purple color, and the lower gradually fading toward the base into a pinkish 
gray. The interior substance is gray. 

"After viewing the rock and its sculptures, which last are sufficiently conspicuous to 
attract notice I'rom the deck of a vessel sailing in the channel of the river, we demand, 
if not the meaning of the sculptures, at least the history of their formation ; but, upon 
the second subject, there is very little to be said, and upon the first, absolutely noth- 
ing. The only solid history is, that the rock, with its sculptures, was found in its 
present place, and apparently in its present condition, by the earliest colonists. 

" But, in the absence of history, there has been an abundance of conjecture. Two 
opinions, though with some subordinate varieties, chiefly divide the learned and 
unlearned. The unlearned believe that the rock was sculptured by the order of a 
pirate, either Captain Kyd or Captain Blackbeard, in order to mark the site of buried 
treasure ; and the shore, for more than a hundred fathom on a side, has been dug, in 
the hope of a discovery. The learned are more attached to a Phoenician origin, and 
suspect that the Writing Rock may be a momument of the first navigators that passed 
the Pillars of Hercules; indeed, they find the Pillars of Hercules among the 
sculptures. 

" In accounting for the diversities observed in the copies, a favorite resource is 
that of supposing that the stone moulders away; but this theory, which would well 
enough explain why sculptures seen in the year 1700 were not seen in the year 
1800, will by no means explain why those seen in ISOO were not seen in 1700: it 
will account for disappearance, but not for variation. Professor Sewall's drawing, 



E A STON. 119 

which is the earliest, Dr. Mather's excepted, contains no figures that I did not see on 
the rock ; but the two later drawings contain several. 

" But, the question of decay in the sculptures affects the question of their antiquity ; 
and Professor Sewall's drawing, and even Dr. Mather's, is evidence with me, that no 
perceptible decay has taken place within the last hundred years ; and this evidence, 
added to that derived from the durable quality of the stone, and from the degree ol 
the decay that is really observable, induces me to believe that the sculptures are very 
ancient. 

"As to traditions, there is, though but in a few mouths, an Indian tradition, which 
purports that, some ages past, a number of white men arrived in the river, in a bird ; 
that the white men took Indians into the bird, as hostages ; that they took fresh water 
for their consumption at a neighboring spring ; that the Indians fell upon and slaugh- 
tered the white men at the spring ; that, during the affray, thunder and lightning 
issued from the bird ; that the hostages escaped from the bird; and that a spring, 
now called White Spring, and from which there runs a brook, called White Man's 
Brook, has its name from this event. 

" This story believed, the inference is, that the rock, which is doubtlessly a monu- 
ment of some event in Indian history, is a monument of the adventure and slaugh- 
ter of the white men of the bird ; but, upon visiting the spring, which is at the distance 
of a quarter of a mile from the rock, on the farm of a Mr. Asa Shove, I could hear 
nothing of the affair : on the contrary, a son of Mr. Shove's related to me, that he 
had always understood the spring and brook to have received their names from the 
death of a white hunter, (a colonist,) who, being heated with the chase, drank freely 
at the spring, and died in consequence, upon the spot. In regard to the spring, one 
neighbor had told me that it was a hot spring, and another that it was remarkable 
for its intense coldness ; and I found it neither warmer nor colder than springs in 
general. The spring is to the north-east of the rock, and the brook enters Taunton 
river a little above the rock. The rock itself is on the farm of a Mr. Deane ; and 
Asonnet Neck is said to have been a place of banishment among the Indians. I was 
informed that another sculptured rock had been seen in the river, at times when the 
water was particularly low ; but this account, on tracing it to its source, appeared to 
be untrue. The only sculptures on any rock, not on the Writing Rock, consist in 
two or three figures or characters, having some similitude to the letters X 0, and 
which are seen on the corner of a slab of stone, lying within a few yards of the 
Writing Rock." 



E A S T O N 



This town, formerly a part of Taunton, was incorporated in 
1725. It forms the north-eastern corner of Bristol comity. Popula- 
tion, 1,976. It is situated 10 miles northerly from Taunton, 22 
from Providence, and 22 from Boston. The manufacture of iron 
has been carried on extensively, and the manufacture of shovels, 
spades, (fcc, is an important branch of business in this town. 
According to the statistical tables published by the state in 1837, 
there were two manufactories of shovels, spades, forks, or hoes, at 
which 84 hands were employed; value of articles manufactured, 
$108,000; capital invested, $51,000. There were employed in 
the manufacture of boots and shoes, 141 males and 40 females ; 
"56,200 pair of boots, and 26,400 pair of shoes, bottomed." 
Four cotton mills ; cotton spindles, 1.824; cotton goods manufac- 
tured, 180,000 yards; value of the same, $32,400; males em- 
ployed, 11 ; females, 45 ; capital invested, $31,000. Four air and 
cupola furnaces, which made 250 tons of iron castings, valued at 
$20,000 ; 20 hands were employed ; 1 furnace for the manufacture 
of pig iron ; 1 manufactory of cutlery ; value of cutlery made, 
^5,000 i 1 wire manufactory; value of wire, $20,000; 1 manufac- 



1^20 F A I R H A V E N . 

tory of surveyors' instruments ; value of instruments, $4.500 ; 1 
manufactory of pegs, employing 14 hands; 15,000 straw bonnets 
were manufactured, valued at $14,000. 



FAIRHAVEN. 



This town was formerly included within the limits of New 
Bedford : it was incorporated as a distinct town in 1812. The 
village was settled in 1764, and it is said to have received its 
name, Fair-haren, from the beauty of its situation. It is united to 
New Bedford by a long bridge, about three fourths of a mile m 
extent, and is associated with it in many of its enterprises. 




Western view of Fairhmen. 

The above shows the appearance of the village as it is seen 
from near the bridge on the New Bedtbvd side of the riyei;^ or 
inlet. It contains 3 churches, 1 Congregational, 1 Freewill Bap- 
tist, and 1 Methodist, a bank, (the Fairhaven Bank.) and an insn- 
rance office. This place, m 1837, had 37 vessels employed m the 
whale fisherv, the tonnage of which was 11,564 tons: sperm oil 
imported, 168,524 gallons; whale oil imported, 350,944^ gallons ; 
value of sperm oil, !i^l44,178 56 ; valae of whale oil, $lo2,/b0; 
hands emploved in the fishery, 945: capital invested m the 
same, $957,000 ; whale-bone. 101,-554 lbs.; value of whale-bone, 
$25,312 86. Population of the town, 3,649. ^ ^ ^ 

During the revolutionary war, on the night of the 7th ot bop- 
tember, 1778, the British troops made an attempt to destroy the 
villac^e'of Fairhaven, but were bravely repulsed by a small force 
in the command of Major Israel Fearing. The enemy a day or 
two previously had burnt houses and destroyed a large amount 
of property at New Bedford. The follov^nng is from Dwight s 
Travels, vol. 3d, p. 71. 

" From this place thev marched around the head of the river to Sconticut Point, oti 
Wip. ea.starn side, leavins; in their course, for some nnl^nown reason, the viUa^e^ oi 



FALL RIVER. 121 

Oxford and Fairhaven. Here they continued till Monday, and then re-embarked. 
The following night a large body of them proceeded up the liver with a design to finish 
the work of destruction by burning Fairhaven. A critical attention to their move- 
ments had convinced the inhabitants that this was their design, and induced them to 
prepare for their reception. The militia of the neighboring country had been sum- 
moned to the defence of this village. Their commander was a man iar advanced in 
years. Under the influence of that languor which at this period enfeebles both the 
body and the mind, he determined that the place must be given up to the enemy, and 
that no opposition to their ravages could be made with any hope of success. This 
decision of their olhcer necessarily spread its benumbing influence over the militia, 
and threatened an absolute prevention of all enterprise, and the destruction of this 
handsome village. 

"Among the oflicers, belonging to the brigade, was Israel Fearing, Esq., a major 
of one of the regiments. This gallant young man, observing the torpor which was 
spreading among the troops, invited as many as had suthcient spirit, to follow him, 
and station themselves at the post of danger. Among those who accepted the invita- 
tion was one of the colonels, who of course became the commandant ; but after they 
had arrived at Fairhaven, and the night had come on, he proposed to march the 
troops back into the country. He was warmly opposed by Major Fearing ; and, find- 
ing that he could not prevail, prudently retired to a house three miles distant, where 
he passed the night in safety. 

"After the colonel had withdrawn, Blajor Fearing, now commander-in-chief, 
arranged his men with activity and skill ; and soon perceived the British approach- 
ing. The militia, in the strictest sense raw, already alarmed by the reluctance of 
their superior othcers to meet the enemy, and naturally judging that men of years 
must understand the real state of the danger better than i\Iajor Fearing, a mere youth, 
were panic-struck at the approach of the enemy, and instantly withdrew from their 
post. At this critical moment Major Fearing, with the decision which awes men into 
a strong sense of duty, rallied them ; and, placing himself in the rear, declared, in a 
tone which removed all doubt, that he would kill the first man whom he found re- 
treating. The resolution of their chief recalled theirs. With the utmost expedition 
he then led them to the scene of danger. The British had already set fire to several 
stores. Between these buildings and the rest of the village he stationed his troops, 
and ordered them to lie close in profound silence, until the enemy, who were advanc 
ing, should have come so near that no marksman could easily mistake his object. 
The orders were punctually obeyed. When the enemy had arrived within this dis- 
tance, the Americans rose, and with a well-directed fire gave them a warm and un- 
expected reception. The British fled instantly to their boats, and fell down the river 
with the utmost expedition. From the quantity of blood found the next day in their 
line of march, it was suppo.sed that their loss was considerable. Thus did this heroic 
youth, in opposition to his superior oflicers, preserve Fairhaven, and merit a statue 
from its inhabitants." 



FALL RIVER. 



This town was formerly a part of Freetown, and was incorpo- 
rated as a distinct town by the name of Troij in 1803. In 1834, 
its name Avas changed to that of the river within its borders, at the 
junction of which with the Tannton river the village is built. It is 
estimated that about seven eighths of the inhabitants of the town 
are in the village. It is stated that thirty-six years since, there 
were but eleven dwelling-houses in the place. At the north end 
of Main street, there were four houses ; occupied by Charles Dur- 
fee, Daniel 0uffington, John Luther, Mary Borden ; in East Cen- 
tral street were Nathan Bowen and Parry Borden ; in West 
Central street were Nathan and Daniel Borden ; in South Main 
street, Simeon Borden, Richard Borden ; Thoiuas Borden lived to 
the west, towards the shore. The first meeting-house in the 



122 



FALL RlVfclt, 



place stood on the dividing line between Fall River and Tiverton. 
R. I. The next meeting-house which was built, was for Friends ; 
it was a small building, and was erected near where their present 
house now stands. The next was a Congregational church, now 
occupied as a school-house in Anna won street. The Baptists and 
Methodists erected their houses afterwards and at about the same 
time. 

During the revolutionary war about 200 of the enemy landed 
in the south part of where the present village is built ; they were 
opposed by about fifteen of our people, under the command of Col. 
Joseph Durfee, who from behind the stone walls fired on the 
British troops and killed two soldiers ; upon this, they rapidly re- 
treated to their barges. The two soldiers were buried south of the 
river, where the Pocasset factory now stands. At the erection of this 
factory their remains were taken up and buried in the town grave- 
yard. 




North vietv of Fall River. 

The above is a northern view of Fall River village, as seen 
from the western side of Taunton river, at 81ade's ferry. Fall 
river, from whence the town derives its name, rises in Wattuppa 
Ponds ; one of which is 11 miles in length and 1 in breadth. 
These ponds are produced by perpetual springs, and lie about two 
miles east of the town. The descent of this river is 136 feet. The 
volume of water is constant ; not liable to excess, and of sufficient 
power for the largest manufactories. The harbor on Taimton 
river is safe, easy of access, and of sufficient depth for large ships. 
A marine railway was constructed here in 1834. 

The following view is taken in the main street in the village, 
looking to the southward, showing some of the public buildings. 
This street is upwards of a mile in extent, and is thickly settled 
for about that distance. This village is situated near the Rhode 
Island line, and a few houses, properly belonging to it, are in the 
town of Tiverton, in that state. There are 8 houses for public 



FALL RIVER 



123 




Central part of Fall River. 

worship, 1 for Friends, 1 Orthodox Congregational, 1 Unitarian, 
1 Baptist, 1 Christian, 1 Episcopal, 1 Methodist, and 1 Catholic. 
There are two banks — the Fall River Bank, capital $400,000, 
Fall River Union Bank, capital $100,000 — and an Insurance 
Company, capital $100,000. Fall River is 17 miles from Taun- 
ton, 14 from New Bedford, 17 to Newport, 49 from Boston, and 30 
by water to Providence. Population, 6,352. 

In 1837, there were in Fall River 10 cotton mills, having 2.5,000 
spindles; 1,. 547,300 lbs. of cotton were consumed. Cotton goods 
manufactured, 7,767,614 yards ; value of the same, $668,028 ; 
males employed, 337 ; females, 648 ; capital invested, $700,000. 
One woollen mill ; woollen machinery, 8 sets ; wool consumed, 
175,000 lbs.; cloth manufactured, 150,000 yards; value of the 
same, $180,000; males employed, 65; females, 55; capital in- 
vested, $50,000; sperm oil used, 6,500 gallons. Two print 
works ; cloth printed, 12,000,000 yards ; value of the same, 
$1,680,000; capital invested, $300,000 ; hands employed, 500. 
One nail factory; nails manufactured, 1,780 tons: value of the 
same, $260,000 ; hands employed, 40 ; capital invested, $75,000. 
There were six vessels employed in the whale fishery ; tonnage of 
the same, 1,359; sperm oil imported, 63,000 gallons; whale oil, 
42,338 ; hands employed, 120; capital invested, $125,000. There 
were also in the place 2 air and cupola furnaces, a rolling and 
slitting mill, and various other establishments for manufacturing 
purposes. 

The following account of some remains found in this town is 
from an article by John Stark, Esq., of Galena, Illinois, published 
in the third volume of the American Magazine, Boston, 1837. 

" These remains were found in the town of Fall River, in Bristol county. Massachu- 
setts, about three years since. In digging down a hill near the village, a large mass, of 

17 



124 



FALL RIVER 



earth slid off, leaving in the bank, and partially uncovered, a human skull, which on 
examination was found to belong to a body buried in a sitting posture ; the head being 
about one foot below what had been for many years the surface of the ground. The 
surrounding earth was carefully removed, and the body found to be enveloped in a cov- 
ering of coarse bark of a dark color. Within this envelope were found the remains of 
another of coarse cloth, made of fine bark, and about the texture of a Manilla coffee bag. 
On the breast was a plate of brass, thirteen inches long, six broad at the upper end 
and five at the lower. This plate appears to have been cast, and is from one eighth to 
three thirty-seconds of an inch in thickness. It is so much corroded, that whether or 
not any thing was engraved upon it has not yet been ascertained. It is oval in form, 
the edges being irregular, apparently made so by corrosion. 

"Below the breast-plate, and entirely encircling the body, was a belt composed of 
brass tubes, each four and a half inches in length, and three sixteenths of an inch in 
diameter, arranged longitudinally and close together ; the length of a tube being the 
width of the belt. The tubes are of thin brass, cast upon hollow reeds, and were fast- 
ened together by pieces of sinew. This belt was so placed as to protect the lower 
parts of the body below the breast-plate. The arrows are of brass, thin, flat, and tri- 
angular in shape, with a round hole cut through near the base. The shaft was 
fastened to the head by inserting the latter in an opening at the end of the wood, and 
then tying it with a sinew through the round hole, — a mode of constructing the weapon 
never practised by the Indians, not even with their arrows of thin shell. Parts of the 
shaft still remain on some of them. When first discovered, the arrows were in a sort 
of quiver of bark, which fell in pieces when exposed to the air. 

" The annexed cut will give our readers an 
idea of the posture of the figure and the position 
of the armor. When the remains were discovered 
the arms were brought rather closer to the body 
than in the engraving. The arrows were near 
the right knee. 

" The skull is much decayed, but the teeth are 
sound, and apparently those of a young man. 
The pelvis is much decayed, and the smaller bones 
of the lower extremities are gone. The integu- 
ments of the right knee, for four or five inches 
above and below, are in good preservation, appa- 
rently the size and shape of life, although quite 
black. 

" Considerable flesh is still preserved on the 
hands and arms, but none on the shoulders and 
elbows. On the back, under the belt, and lor two inches above and below, the 
skin and flesh are in good preservation, and have the appearance of being tanned. 
The chest is much compressed, but the upper viscera are probably entire. The 
arms are bent up, not crossed ; so that the hands turned inwards touch the shoulders. 
The stature is about five and a half feet. Much of the exterior envelope was decayed, 
and the inner one appeared to be preserved only where it had been in contact with 
the brass. 

" The preservation of this body may be the result of some embalming process ; 
and this hypothesis is strengthened by the fact, that the skin has the ai)pearance of hav- 
ing been tanned ; or it may be the accidental result of the action of the salts of the brass 
during oxydation ; and this latter hypothesis is supported by the fact, that the skin and 
flesh have been preserved only where they have been in contact with, or quite near, 
the brass ; or we may account for the preservation of the whole by suppo.sing the 
presence of saltpetre in the soil at the time of the deposit. In either way, the preser- 
vation of the remains is fully accounted for, and upon known chemical principles. 

"That the body was not one of the Indians, we think needs no argument. We 
have seen some of the drawings taken from the sculptures found at Palenque, and in 
those the figures are represented with breast-plates, although smaller than the plate 
found at Fall River. On the figures at Palenque the bracelets and anklets appear to 
be of a manufacture precisely .similar to the belt of tubes just described. These fig- ■ 
ures also have helmets precisely answering the description of the helmet of Hector in 
Homer. 

••■ If the body found at Fall River be one of the Asiatic race, who transiently settled 
in Central North America, and afterward went to Mexico and founded those cities, in 
exploring the ruins of which such astonishing discoveries have recently been made ; 
thea we may well suppose also that it is one of the race whose exploits with ' brazen 




MANSFIELD. 125 

spears ' have, although without a date and almost without a certain name, been im- 
mortalized by the Father of Poetry ; and who, probably, in still earlier times, con- 
Ktructed the Cloacce under ancient Rome, which have been absurdly enough ascribed to 
one of the Tarquins, in whose time the whole population of Rome would have been 
msufficient for a work, that would, moreover, have been useless when finished. Of 
this Great Race, who founded cities and empires in their eastward march, and are 
finally lost in South Ameiica, the Romans seem to have had a glimmering tradition 
in the story of Evander. 

"But we rather incline to the belief that the remains found at Fall River belonged 
to one of the crew of a Phoenician vessel. 

'■ The spot where they were found is on the sea-coast, and in the immediate neigh- 
borhood of ' Dighton Rock,' famed for its hieroglyphic inscription, of which no suffi- 
cient explanation has yet been given ; and near which rock brazen vessels have been 
found. If this latter hypothesis be adopted, a part of it is, that these mariners — the 
unwilling and unfortunate discoverers of a new world — lived some time after they 
landed ; and, having written their names', perhaps their epitaphs, upon the rock at 
Dighton, died, and were buried by the natives." 



FREETOWN. 



This town was first settled about 1659, and incorporated in 
1683. The principal village in the town is Assonett, situated at 
the head of an inlet from Taunton river, 8 miles from Taunton, 8 
from Fall River, 16 from New Bedford, and 26 from Boston. The 
village consists of about fifty dwelling-houses and 2 churches, 1 
Congregational and 1 Baptist. Ship-building is carried on in the 
village. Population of the town, 1,779. There are in the town 
2 nail factories, 2 air and cupola furnaces, 1 axe manufactory, 1 
manufactory of cutlery, and 1 for shovels, spades, &c. Eight ves- 
sels were built in five years preceding 1837, tonnage 636 ; value of 
the same, $36,200 ; hands employed in building, eleven. 



MANSFIELD. 

This town was formerly a part of Norton ; it was incorporated 
as a distinct town in 1770. The central part of this town is 12 
miles from Taunton and 28 from Boston. Population, 1,444. Col. 
Ephraim Leonard was one of the most distinguished of the first 
settlers of this place ; he built his house about two miles eastward 
of the Congregational church in the center of the town. The Rev. 
Mr. White, the first minister, lived about one mile south of the 
meeting-house. Nathan Williams, another of the first settlers, 
located his house where the tavern now stands. A number of 
families, by the name of Wellraan, had their houses about half a 
mile south of the meeting-house ; Deacon Abial Leonard lived 
at the distance of about three miles. Benjamin, brother to Nathan 
Williams, lived about a mile north of the meeting-house ; these 
brothers owned lands extending to the old colony line. A family 
of Deans settled in the south part of the town; Deacon Skinner 
in the western part. Families by the name of Grover were among 
the early inhabitants. 

This town is well watered by three principal branches of Taun- 
ton river, called Rumford, Cocasset, and Canoe rivers ; the two 



126 NEWBEDfORt). 

first mentioned are valuable streams. There are in the town 6 
cotton mills, running 3,412 spindles. In 1837, there were 680,971 
yards of cotton goods manufactured, the value of which was up- 
wards of $40,000. There is a woollen mill, and 2 nail factories. 
In the same year 30,000 straw bonnets, valued at $30,000; 1,500 
palm-leaf hats, valued at $382, and $4,000's worth of baskets, were 
manufactured. 



NEW BEDFORD. 



Tae Indian name of New Bedford was Acchusmitt or Acushnei. 
It was incorporated as a town in 1787, previous to which it 
formed a part of the town of Dartmouth. At what time and by 
whom the first settlement was commenced in the limits of tho 
town, does not distinctly appear. It is supposed, however, that 
the Friends or Quakers were the first white inhabitants. The 
first settled minister appears to have been the Rev. Samuel Hunt, 
who died about the year 1735 ; it is supposed he was ordained 
here about 1700. The next minister was Rev. Richard Pierce ; he 
was settled in 1735, and was succeeded by Rev. Mr. Cheever. 
Mr. Cheever was dismissed in 1759, and was succeeded by Rev, 
Samuel West, D. D., who was settled in 1761. The villages of 
New Bedford and Fairhaven, on the opposite side of the river, 
were settled about the same time, 1764. The first house in New 
Bedford village was built by Mr. John Louden, of Pembroke. 
The land on which the place is built was owned by a Mr. Russell. 
This being the family name of the Dake of Bedford, Mr. .T. Rotch, 
one of the principal purchasers and settlers, declared that the place 
where they built should go by the name of Bedford. It afterwards 
received the prefix New^ on account of there being another town 
of the same name in the limits of the commonwealth. Mr. Rotch, 
a member of the society of Friends, was a man of sagacity and 
enterprise. He speedily built a house, stores, and wharves ; and 
was joined by several associates. By his previous knowledge of 
the whaling business which he had acquired in Nantucket, Mr. 
Rotch and liis friends M'^ere able to carry on this business to great 
advantage, which has been a great source of great wealth and 
prosperity to tlie place to the present time. " By his peculiar ad- 
dress he procured first from the government of France, and then 
from that of Great Britain, the privilege of exporting oil to those 
countries, duty free ; and was thus enabled to carry on his own 
business with the highest profit, and essentially to befriend that of 
his neighbors." 

New Bedford is a half shire town of Bristol county and port 
of entry, on the west side of the Acushnet river, or, more properly, 
an inlet from Buzzard's Bay. The ground upon which the town 
is built rises beautifully from the water, and as the town is ap- 
proached from tlte water or from the Fairhaven side it presents a 
fine appearance. The harbor, though not easy of access, is capa- 



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NORTON. 127 

clous, and well secured from winds, A wooden bridge and cause- 
way, the whole of which extends about three fourths of a mile, 
connects the town with the village of Fairhaven. The almost 
entire business of the place is the whale fishery and other branches 
of business connected with it : this business was commenced before 
the revolutionary war, and has gradually risen to its present impor- 
tance. In 1838, the number of vessels belonging to New Bedford, en- 
gaged in the whale fishery, was one liundred and seventy, employ- 
ing four thousand hands. There are seventeen candle houses and oil 
manufactories. In 1837. there was imported into the United States 
181,724 bbls. of sperm oil, and 219,138 bbls. of whale oil: of this 
quantity 75,675 bbls. of sperm oil, and 85,668 bbls. of whale oil, 
was imported into the New Bedford district. There are 4 banks. 
The Bedford Commercial Bank, with a capital of $400,000, was in- 
corporated in 1816 ; the Merchants Bank was incorporated in 1825, 
with a capital of $400,000 ; the Mechanics Bank incorporated in 

1831, capital $200,000 ; and the Marine Bank, incorporated in 

1832, with a capital of $300,000. There are three insurance offi- 
ces, whose united capitals amount to 350,000 dollars. The " New 
Bedford Institution for Savings" has an amount invested of about 
220,000 dollars. There are 14 churches : 3 Baptist, 2 of which are 
Christian societies; 3 Congregational, 1 of which is Unitarian; 2 
Methodist Episcopal, 1 Episcopal, 1 for Friends, 1 Universalist, 1 
Bethel, 1 African and 1 Catholic. Few towns in Massachusetts 
have increased more rapidly than New Bedford. By the census of 
1790, the population of the village was about 700 ; in 1820, it was 
3,947 ; in 1830, it was 7,592 ; and in 1836, it was 11,113 ; making 
an increase of nearly 47 per cent, in six years. Distance 52 miles 
S. of Boston, 52 N.' W. of Nantucket, 24 from Taunton, and 214 
north-easterly from New York. 

During the revolutionary war New Bedford was a place of 
resort for American privateers. In order to destroy them, 4,000 
British troops, under Gen. Gray, landed upon Clark's Neck, the 
western boundary of the river at its mouth. From this point they 
marched to the town, and burnt houses, wharves, &c., to the 
amount of £11,241. They also destroyed English and West India 
goods, provisions, naval stores, shipping, &c., to the amount of 
£85,739 ; amounting in the whole to £96,980, or $323,266. 



NORTON. 



Norton was incorporated as a town in 1711. It was originally 
a part of Taunton, and when incorporated included in its limits 
the present towns of Easton and Mansfield. The first settler within 
the limits of the town was a cabin-boy, named William Witherell, 
who received a tract of land by the gift of his master, and built a 
house upon it in 1670.=* A settlement was made in 1696, by 

* Spofford's Gazetteer of Massachusetts. 



128 PAWTUCKET. 

George Leonard, Esq., a name which has been identified with 
much of the public and mechanical business of the town. He was 
led to the settlement by the discovery of iron ore, and finding 
water power suitable to its manufacture. The iron manufacture 
has been continued in the family of the Leonards till the present 
time. Several of this name have been distinguished in civil life, 
and are persons of wealth and respectability. " The soil is not of 
the first quality, though equal to the adjoining towns. Much of 
this town is occupied by tenants, greatly to the disadvantage of its 
agriculture; there being 148 freeholders, and 107 tenants under 
lease."* 

Norton is 8 miles N. W. of Taunton, 30 S. of Boston, and 17 N. 
E. from Providence. Population, 1,.530. In 1837, there were in 
this town 4 cotton mills, 1,993 spindles; cotton goods manufac- 
tured, 290.376 yards; value of the same, $53,167 82; males 
employed, 53 ; females, 35 ; one air and cupola furnace, which 
made 375 tons of iron castings, valued at $37,500 ; twenty-five 
hands were employed ; eight air and cupola furnaces for rolling 
and refining copper ; 500 tons of sheet copper and copper bolts 
were manufactured, valued at $280,000 ; thirty-three hands were 
employed ; capital invested, $226,000. 



P A W T U C K E T . 



This town was formerly within the limits of Seekonk. It was 
incorporated as a distinct town in 1828. It is two miles square, 
lying on the east side of Pawtucket river. The village of Paw- 
tucket is centrally divided by the river ; that part lying on the 
west side is within the limits of the town of North Providence, in 
Rhode Island. 

The cut shows the appearance of the village as it is entered 
from the south on the Rhode Island side of the river. It is said 
that the first manufacture of cotton cloth in this country, by water 
power machinery, was commenced at this place. The water 
power is very great, and the fall of the river within a short dis- 
tance is fifty feet. There are in the village 12 cotton factories, with 
35,000 spindles and 1000 looms. The Franklin calico printing 
works do an extensive business. There are also 5 machine shops 
and a number of iron works. About 2000 operatives are employed 
in these establishments. The river is navigable to the village ; it 
runs 4 miles S. by W. to Providence river, at India Point — one 
mile below the center of the city of Providence. The river above 
the village takes the name of Blackstone. This place is 4 miles 
N. of Providence, 16 from Taunton, 38 S. E. of Worcester, and 36 
from Boston. The whole village is said to contain about 6,000 
inhabitants. There are 7 churches : 2 Baptist, 1 Episcopal, 1 
Methodist, and 1 Catholic on the Rhode Island side ; 1 Congrega- 

* Spofford's Gazatteer of Massachusetts. 



PA WTUCKET 



129 




South view of Pawtucket, Mass. and R. I. 

tional and 1 Freewill Baptist on the Massachusetts side. In the 
town of Pawtucket, according to the Statistical Tables published 
by the state of Massachusetts, in 1837, there were 6 cotton mills, 
with 15,317 spindles; 2,156,266 yards of cotton goods manufac- 
tured ; 125 males and 243 females employed. One print works, 
which printed 4,894,597 ^mrds of cloth, employing 196 males and 
28 females. The " Pawtncket Bank," Math a capital of $100,000, 
is in this town. Population, 1,881. 

[From the Commercial Advertiser, 1838.] 

" Evasion of the Laws. — Follo^nng in the footsteps of Massachusetts, Rhode Island 
has prohibited the sale or vending of ardent spirits in less quantities than fifteen gal- 
lons. These prohibitory laws in both states am producing great excitement, and we 
should not marvel were they to result in violent political action. Meantime the great 
inventor of the alembic is teaching his followers every possible device for evading the 
laws, as will appear from the following law report from the Providence Journal. 

"' The Ark.'' — At the present session of the supreme court in this city, evidence was 
brought before the grand jury to obtain an indictment for a violation of the license 
law. It appears that some person or persons had procured a raft or scow, erected a 
shanty thereon, and moored the same on Pawtucket river, where it was regularly fur- 
nished with a " great variety of choice liquors." Attached to the scow was a platform, 
which, W'hen lowered, enabled persons from the shore to walk to the ark, as the float 
was designated, and the vessel was moored .so that this platform could be used on 
either side of the river, as profit or policy might dictate. On gaining it, there could 
be seen faticets variously marked, R, G, B, itc, from either of which, on being turned, 
gushed forth the beverage its initial represented. This place of resort became very 
soon as popular as any watering place in the country ; as at it glasses were ahvays 
ready, although no attendants were at hand. Those who partook of the refreshing 
streams, as a matter of course, left something as satisfaction for trouble, which, by 
some legerdemain we could not comprehend, and therefore cannot describe, was 
taken possession of by some spirit unseen and unknown. As the dividing line between 
Rhode Island and Massachusetts is at high-water mark on the east side of the river, 
it will be perceived that customers from our sister state, by the platform being placed 
on their side, could be accommodated without violation of Massachusetts laws. Not 
so, however, with the laws of Rhode Island. Against these laws there was an offence 
committed, but establishing the identity of the offender was a very difficult matter. 
Witnesses in abundance were produced, who testified that they had drunk deep of the 
waters of the ark, but whom they obtained them of, they had neither desire or 
ability to say. One person in Pawtucket testified that he furnished from $75 to $100's 

18 



130 EAYNHAM. 

worth of liquors per week ; that he charged it to "the ark ;" that he delivered it somC' 
times to one and sometimes to another, who were employed to do chores ; and, finally, 
he identified one person who had at one time received it, against whom the grand 
jury returned a true bill, and whose trial will take place at the present term of the 
court. It is surmised that, as none of the brood were preserved in the ancient, it was 
from this modern ark came the "striped pig"* which has so recently been astonish- 
ing the natives of Boston. Notwithstanding the cloud of mystery in which the operators 
envelop themselves, one thing is very certain, the parties have been stimulated in 
their course by evil spirits." 



RAYNHAM. 

This town was formerly a part of Taunton, and was incorpo- 
rated as a distinct town in 1731. It originally made a part of those 
lands known by the name of CoJtanet, in the colony of New Ply- 
mouth. They were first purchased of Massasoit, the Indian chiei', 
by Elizabeth Pool and her associates. It appears the first settle- 
ment made in the town was about the year 1650. The first meet- 
ing-house was built in 1730. At this period there were about thirty 
families in the place. This house stood for forty-two years. The 
second meeting-house was erected in 1771, nearly in the center of 
the town. The first minister ordained here was Rev. John Wales ; 
this was in 1731. Mr. Wales died in 176.5, and was succeeded by 
Rev. Peres Fobes, LL. D., who was ordained in 1766. 

The lands in Raynham are in general level and the soil light. 
Taunton river washes the southern border of the town ; there 
are also a number of ponds, which produce a water power. There 
is a large shovel factory, a wire mill, a furnace, and a nail factory, 
which has produced eleven tons of nails daily. Iron ore is found 
here. There are 3 houses of worship : 1 Unitarian, 1 Orthodox, 
and 1 Baptist. Population, 1,379. Distance 3 miles N. E. of Taun- 
ton, 24 E. of Providence, and 30 miles S. of Boston. 

The following cut represents the original Leonard House in 
this town, "where tradition says that Philip's head was deposited 
for some time. It is still occupied by one of the family, of the 
sixth generation from the builder, and, so far as we are informed, 
is the oldest mansion now standing in this country. The vane at 
one of the gable-ends is inscribed with the date 1700; but there is 
little doubt of the house having been erected at least thirty years 
previous. The worlaiianship, especially within, is remarkably 
massive and sound. It is apparently modelled after an English 

* Reference is here made to the exhibition of a " striped pig" in Dedham, or some 
other place in the vicinity of Boston, on a day of general military muster. The exhi- 
biters of this curiosity, having obtained permission of the proper authorities, gave 
notice that this strange animal could be seen at the low price of .siz cents. This pig 
drew quite a number of visiters. Those who visited the exhibition, state that they 
found the pig as represented ; the stripes, however, were laid on with a painter's brush. 
They found also a choice variety of liquors, a glass of M'hich was allowed gratis to 
each visiter, in addition to the privilege of seeing this remarkable pig. There was 
somethmg so attracting about the animal, that quite a number of individuals, not satis- 
fied with one sight, were known to visit the exhibition a number of times the same 
daj. 



EA YNHAM 



131 




Ancient Leonard House in Raynham. 

fashion of the eighteenth century, with some modifications proper 
for defence against the Indians. It was garrisoned during the war. 
The Fowhng Pond, still so called, has become a thick swamp. 
An aged gentleman was living not many years since who in boy- 
hood had frequently gone otf in a canoe, to catch fish in its waters. 
Indian weapons and utensils are still found on its borders."* 

The first iron forge in America was set up in this town. On 
the banks of one of the ponds in this place, the celebrated King 
Philip had a hunting house. The followuig is taken from the Rev- 
Dr. Fobes' description of Raynham in 1793. 

" The first adventurers from England to this country, who were skilled in tfee forge 
iron maniifscture, were two brothers, viz. James and Henry Leonard. They came to 
this town in the year 1652, which was about two years after the first settlers had plant- 
ed themselves upon this spot ; and in the year 1052, these Leonards here built the 
first forge in America. Henry not long after moved from this place to the Jerseys 
and settled there. James, who was the great progenitor, from whom the whole race 
of the Leonards here sprang, lived and died in this town. He came from Ponterpool 
in Blonmouthshire, and brought with him his son Thomas, then a small boy, who after- 
wards worked at the bloomery art, with his father, in the forge. This forge was situ- 
ated on the great road ; and, having been repaired from generation to generation, it is 
to this day still in employ. On one side of the dam, at n smuU distance from: each other, 
stand three large elms and one oak tree. Two of the elms are near 'three feet in cir- 
cumference, and nre still flourishing. These trees are now nlmost a hundred and twenty 
years old ; whi'^h, with the ancient buildings and other objects around, present to the 
eye a scene of the most venerable antiquity In the distance of one mile and a quar- 
ter from tliis forge is a place called the Fowling Pond, on the northerly side of which 
once stood King Philip's house. It Avas ciilJ-eiUPIviiip's hunting house, because, in the 
season most favornble to hunting, he resided there, but spent the winter chiefly at 
Mount Hope, probably for the benefit of fish. Philip and these Leonards, it seems, 
long lived in good neighborhood, and often traded with each other ; and such was 
Philip's friendship, that as soon as the ^^■ar broke mit, which was in lti75, he gave out 
strict orders to all his Indians nev.'^r to hurt the Leonards. During the war, two 
houses near the forge were constantly garrisoned. These buildings are yet strmding. 
One of them was built by James Leonard, long before Philip's war. This house still 
remains in its original gothic form, and is now inhabited, together with the .same pater- 
nal spot, by Leonards of the sixth generation. In the cellar imder this house, was 
deposited, for a considerable time, the head of King Philip ; for it seems that even 

* Thatcher's Indian Biography. — This interesting relic of antiquity, we regret te 
state, is now no more, it having been, as we are infoxmed, taken down, quite receutkr 
spy the proprietor. 



132 PvEHOBOTH. 

Philip himself shared the fate of kings ; he was decollated, and his head carried about 
and shown as a curiosity, by one Alderman, the Indian who shot him. 

There is yet in being an ancient case of drawers, which used to stand in this house, 
upon which the deep scars and mangled impressions of Indian hatchets are now seen • 
but the deeper impressions made on those affrighted women, who fled from the house 
when the Indians broke in, cannot be known. Under the door-steps of the same build- 
ing now lie buried the bones of two unfortunate young women, who in their flight 
here were shot down by the Indians, and their blood was seen to run quite across the 
road ; but more fortunate was the flight of Uriah Leonard, who, as he was riding from 
Taunton to the forge in this place, was discovered and fired upon by the Indians. He 
instantly plucked ofl' his hat, swung it around, which staj'tled his horse, and in full 
career he reached the forge dam, without a wound ; but several bullets were shot 
through the hat he held in his hand, and through the neck of the horse near the mane, 
from which the blood on both sides gushed and ran down on both his legs. 

While deacon Nathaniel Williams, with some others, were at work in the field, on 
the south side of the road about half a mile from the forge, one of the number disco- 
vered a motion of the bushes at a little distance ; he immediately presented his gun and 
fired ; upon which the Indians were heard to cry, Cocoosh, and ran off; but soon after 
one of the Indians was found dead near the Fowling Pond. Near the great river are 
now to be seen the graves of Henry Andross and James Philips, who, with James 
Bell and two sons, were killed by a number of Indians, who lay in ambush. This 
happened in the place called Squabette. 

The place already mentioned, by the name of Fowling Pond, is itself a great curios- 
ity. Before Philip's war it seems to have been a large pond, nearly two miles long 
and three quarters of a mile wide. Since then, the water is almost gone, and the large 
tract it once covered is grown up to a thick-set swamp of cedar and pine. That this, 
however, was once a iarge pond, haunted by fowls, and supplied with fish in great 
plenty, is more than probable, for here is found, upon dry land, a large quantity of 
white floor sand, and a great number of that kind of smooth stones, which are never 
found except on shores or places long washed with water. There is also on the east 
side a bank of sand, which is called the Beaver's Dam, against which the water must 
formerly have washed up ; and if so, the pond must once have been of such amplitude 
as that above mentioned. Add to this, that a large number of Indian spears, tools, 
pots, &CC., are found near the sides of this pond. This indicates that the natives were 
once thick-settled here. But \vhat could be their object ? What could induce Philip 
to build his house here ? It was, undoubtedly, fishing and fowling, in this then large 
pond. But, more than all, there is yet living in this towm a man of more than ninety 
years old, who can well remember that when he was a boy he had frequently gone off 
in a canoe to fish in this pond ; and says, that many a fish had been caught where the 
pines and cedars are now more than fifty feet high. If an instance, at once so rare 
and w^ell attested as this, should not be admitted as a curious scrap of the natural his* 
tory of this country, yet it must be admitted as a strong analogical proof that many 
of our swamps were originally ponds of water : but, more than this, it suggests a new 
argument in favor of the wisdom and goodness of that Divine Providence which 
"cha7iges the face of the earth," to ■supply the wants of man, as often as he changes from 
uncivilized nature to a state of cultivation and refinement. 



REHOBOTH 



The original limits of Rehoboth were extensi\^e, comprehending 
the present town, Seekonk, Pawtiicket, Attleborough, Cumber- 
land, R. I., and part of Swansey and Barrington. The first pur- 
chase of land here for a settlement was made of Massasoit, in 1641, 
comprehending a tract of land about ten miles square, embracing 
the present towns of Rehoboth, Seekonk, and Pawtucket. The 
first white settler in the original limits of the town was William 
Blackstone, a non-conformist minister of England, who fled from 
persecution and sought an asylum in the wilds of America. He 
was the first white man who lived on tlie peninsula where the 



REHOBOTH. 133 

city of Boston now stands. He sold his lands on the peninsula in 
1634, and probably removed to Rehoboth the next year. He loca- 
ted himself in what is now Cumberland, R. 1., on the river which 
bears his name, about three miles above the village of Pawtucket. 
His house, which he named " Study Hall," stood near the east bank 
of the river, a few rods east of a knoll which rises abruptly from 
the meadow on the brink of the river to the height of 60 or 70 feet. 
His grave and the well which he dug are still to be seen. The 
celebrated Roger Williams for a short time, when driven from 
Massachusetts, first pitched his tent in the limits of Rehoboth, and 
resided there for a short period. 

Rev. Samuel Newman*^ may be considered as the founder of 
Rehoboth. He removed here with part of his church in Weymouth 
in 1644. The first meeting of the original planters to be found on 
record is dated at " Weimouth the 24th of the 8th month [October] 
1643." The second meeting was held in Dec. following, when 
regulations were made as to the planting of corn. The teacher 
was to have a certain portion from each settler ; servants, after 
four years, to be inhabitants, and entitled to their privileges. The 
following appears to be a list of all the planters at Seekonk or Re- 
hoboth in July, 1644. It is prefixed in the following manner : — 

" This combination, entered into by the general consent of aH the inhabitants, after 
general notice given the 23d of the 4th month. We whose names are underwTitten, 
feeing, by the providence of God, inhabitants of Seacunk, intending there to settle, do 
covenant, (kc. 

Walter Palmer, Samuel Newman, Peter Hunt, Ralph Alin, 

Edward Smith, Wm. Cheesborough, William Smith, Thomas Bhss, 

Edward Bennett, Richard Wright, .Tohn Peren, George Kendricke, 

Robert Titus, Robert Martin, Zachery Rhoades, John Allen, 

Abraham Martin, Richard Bowen, Job Lane, WiUiam Sabin, 

John Matthewes, Joseph Torrey, Alex. Winchester, Thomas Cooper. 

Edward Sale, James Clark, Henry Smith, 

Ralph Shepherd, Ephraim Hunt, Stephen Payne, 

"Though the proprietors purchased their land of the Plymouth colony, yet it appears, 
from the compact signed by them, that they considered themselves independent of any 
jurisdiction but their own, though they were afterwards claimed by both Plymouth 
and Massachusetts Bay. In 1645, they submitted themselves to the jurisdiction of 
the Plymouth court, or rather were assigned to that by the commissioners of the 
United Colonies, and were incorporated by the Scripture name of Behoboth, — a name 
selected by Mr. Newman; for, said he, " the Lard hath made room for us."\ 

The town of Rehoboth in its present limits is formed from the 

* Mr. Newman was a man of great learning and piety. He compiled a Concor- 
dance of the Bible, a herculean labor, which M'as published in London in 1643, in folio. 
After his removal to Rehoboth (now Seekonk), he revised this work and greatly im- 
proved it, using in the evening, according to President Stiles, pine knots instead of 
candles. He died at Seekonk, in 1663. "The manner of his death," says Elliot, 
'• was peculiar. He had a certain premonition of it, and seemed to triumph in thr. 
prospect of its being near. He was apparently in perfect health, and preached a ser- 
mon from these words. Job xiv. 14 : ' All the days of my appointed time n'ill I wait till 
my change come.' In the afternoon of the following Lord's day he asked the deacon to 
pray with him, saying he had not long to live. As soon as he had finished his prayer, 
he said the time was come when he must leave the world ; but his friends, seeing 
no immediate signs of dissolution, thought it was the influence of imagination. But 
he turned round, saying, 'Angels, do your office,' and immediately expired." 

•f Bliss' History of Rehoboth, p. 31, 



134 



REHOBOTH, 



second precnct of the ancient Rehoboth. This was incorporated 
as a separate society in 1759. As early as 1711, the inhabitants 
of the south-east part of the town, called the "neighborhood of 
Palmer's river," petitioned for a division of the town into two pre- 
cincts. This was opposed by the western or older part of the town. 
In 1717, the general court granted permission to the people at 
Palmer's River to build a meeting-house in their part of the town. 
This house was commenced the same year, and stood on a small 
elevation about half a mile N. W. of the Orleans factory. Jethnial 
Peck, Capt. Samuel Peck, and Jonathan Bliss, gave each an acre 
of land for the site of the meeting-house. In 1721 a church was 
organized here, under the pastoral care of Rev. David Turner. 
Mr. Turner wa:s succeeded by Rev. Robert Rogerson, who was 
settled in 17.59 ; he died in 1799, and was succeeded by Rev. Otis 
Thompson, who was ordained in 1800. The second meeting-house 
was erected in 1773, "upon the plaine near Timothy Readways." 
There are at present in Rehoboth 5 churches : 2 Baptist, 1 Congrt- 
gational, 1 Reformed Methodist, and 1 Christian. There is a cot- 
ton factory, with 1,440 spindles. Population, 2,202. Distance, 10 
miles S. W. of Taunton, 7 east of Providence, and 40 south-west- 
erly of Boston. 




South-mest view of Annawon's Rock, Rehoboth. 

The above is a representation of the celebrated rock, called 
Annawon's Rock, in the eastern part of Rehoboth, a few rods south 
of the new turnpike from Taunton to Providence, about eight miles 
from the former and ten miles from the latter place. The whole 
rock extends N. E. and S. W. 70 or 80 feet, and its height is 25 
or 30 feet. It is on the northern border of a great swamp of nearly 
3000 acres, called Squannakouk. by which it is rendered inaccessible 
except on the northern side. This place is rendered memorable 
by the capture of Anuawon, the last and bravest of King Philip's 
chieftains, on 28th of Aug. 1676. Annawon, after the death of 
Philip, Aug. 12th, with a few brave warriors, ranged die woods in 



REHOBOTH. 135 

the vicinity of Rehoboth and Swanzey, much to the terror of the 
inhabitants. Capt. Church, so celebrated in this war, was sent for, 
who with his party immediately commenced upon the pursuit. 
Having captured a number of Aniiawon's company, one of them 
having his life spared olfered to conduct him to his chieftain's retreat. 
The following interesting account is taken from the account given 
in Drakes Hist, of Lid Ian Chiefs, published in Boston in 1832. 

Having travelled through swamps and thickets until the sun was setting, the pilot 
ordered a stop. The captain asked him if he had made any discovery. He said, 
"About that hour of tlie day Aanawon usually sent out his scouts to see if the coast 
was clear, and as soon as it began to grow dark the scouts returned, and then we may 
move securely." ^Vhen it was sufficiently dark, and they were about to proceed, 
Capt. Church asked the old man if he would take a gun and fight for him. He 
bowed very low and said, "I pray you not to impose such a thing upon me as to 
fight against Capt. Aniwn-on, my old friend, but I will go along with you, and be help- 
ful to you, and will lay hands on any man that shall offer to hurt you." They had 
proceeded but a short space, when they heard a noise, which they concluded to be 
the pounding of a mortar. This warned them that they were in the vicinity of Anna. 
Ivan's retreat. 

*=« ******** 

When they arrived near the foot of the rock, Capt. Church, with two of his Indian 
soldiers, crept to the top of it, from whence they could see distinctly the situation of 
the whole company, by the light of their fires. They were divided into three bodies, 
and lodged a short distance from one another. Annawnii's camp was formed by felling 
a tree against the rock, with bushes set up on each side. With him lodged his son, 
and others of his principal men. Their guns were discovered standing, and leaning 
against a stick resting on two crotches, safely covered from the weather by a mat. 
Over their fires were pots and kettles boiling, and meat roasting upon their spits. 
Capt. Church was now at some loss how to proceed, seeing no possibility of getting 
down the rock without discovery, which would have been fatal. He therefore creeps 
silently back again to the foot of the rock, and asked the old man, their pilot, if there 
were no other way of coming at them. He answered, " No," and said that himself 
and all others belonging to the company were ordered to come that way, and none 
could come any other without danger of being shot. 

The fruitful mind of Church was no longer at a loss, and the following stratagem 
was put in successful practice. He ordered the old man and the young woman to go 
forward and lead the way, with their baskets upon their backs, which, when Anna' 
tvon should discover them, would take no alarm, knowing them to be those he had 
lately sent forth upon di.scovery. Capt. Church and his handful of soldiers crept 
down also, under the shadow of those two and their baskets. The captain himself 
crept close behind the old man, with his hatchet in his hand, and stepped over the 
young man's head to the arms. The young Anncmon, discovering him, whipped his 
blanket over his head, and shrunk up in a heap. The old captain Annawon started up 
on his breech, and cried out "Hun-nh .'" which signified, "I am taken." All hope of es- 
cape was now fled forever, and he made no effort, but laid himself down again in perfect 
silence, while his captors secured the rest of the company. For he supposed the Eng. 
lish were far more numerous than they were, and before he was undeceived his 
company were all secured. 

One circumstance much facilitated this daring project. It has been before mentioned 
that they heard the pounding of a mortar on their api)roach. This continued during 
their descent down the rock. A squaw was pounding green dried corn for their 
supper, and when she ceased pounding to turn the corn they ceased to proceed, and 
when she pounded again they moved. This was the reason they were not heard a.s 
they lowered themselves down from crag to crag, supported by small bushes that 
grew from the seams of the rock. The pounded corn served afterwards for a supper 
to the captors. 

******#*#* 

The two companies situated at a short distance from the rock knew not the fate of 
their captain, ur til those sent by Church announced to them that they were all pris- 
oners ; and, to prevent their making resistance, were told that Capt. Church had en- 
compassed them with his army, and that to make resistance would be immediate 
death ; but if they all submitted peaceably, they should have good quarter. " Now 



136 S E E K N K . 

they being old acquaintance, and many of them relations," readily consented ; deb 
vering up their guns and hatchets, were all conducted to head quarters. 

Things being thus far settled, Captain Church asked Annarvun what he had for sup. 
per ; " for,'" said he, " I am come down to sup with you." Annaivon replied, " Taubut,'* 
with a majestic voice, and, looking around upon his women, ordered them to hasten 
and provide Capt. Church and his company some supper. He asked Capt. Church 
"whether he would eat cow beef or horse beef." He said he would prefer cow beef. 
It was soon ready, which, by the aid of some salt he brought in his pocket, he made a 
good meal. And here it should be told, that a small bag of salt, which Church carried 
in his pocket, was the only provision he took with him upon this expedition. 

When supper was over, Capt. Church set his men to watch, telling them that if they 
would let him sleep two hours they should .sleep all the rest of the night, he not hav- 
ing slept any for thirty-six hours before ; but after lying a half hour, and no dispo- 
sition to sleep came, from the momentous cares upon his mind, for, 

"The dead alone in such a night can rest;" 
he looked to see if his watch were at their posts, but they were all fast asleep. Anna- 
won felt no more like sleeping than Church, and they lay for some time looking one 
upon the other. Church spoke not to A?i7ia7iwn, because he could not speak Indian, 
and thought Annarvun could not speak English, but it now appeared that he could, 
from a conversation they held together. Church had laid down with Annawon to pre- 
vent his escape, of which however he did not seem much afraid, for after they had 
laid a considerable time Annawon got up and walked away out of sight, which 
Church considered was on a common occasion. But being gone some time, " he began 
to suspect some ill design." He therefore gathered all the guns close to himself, and 
lay as close as he possibly could under young Annmvnn's side, that if a shot should be 
made at him it must endanger the life of young Annan'on also. After lying a while 
m great suspense, he saw, by the light of the moon, Annawon coming with something 
in his hands. When he had got to Capt. Church he knelt down before him, and after 
presenting him what he had brought, spoke in English as follows: — "Great captain, 
you have killed Philip, and conquered his country. For I believe that I and my com- 
pany are the last that war against the English, so suppose the war is ended by your 
means, and therefore these things belong unto you." He then took out of his pack a 
beautifully wrought belt, which belonged to Philip. It was nine inches in breadth, 
and of such length as, when put about the shoulders of Capt. Church, reached to his 
ankles. This was considered at that time of great value, being embroidered all over 
with money, that is wampampeag, of various colors, curiously wrought into figures 
of birds, beasts, and flowers. A second belt, of no less exquisite workmanship, was 
next presented, which belonged also to Philip. This, that chief used to ornament his 
head with ; from the back part of which flowed two flags, which decorated his 
back. A third was a smaller one, "with a star upon the end of it, which he wore upon 
his breast. All three were edged with red hair, which Annawon said was got in the 
country of the Mohawks. These belts, or some of them, it is believed remain at this 
day, the property of a family in Swansey. He next took from his pack two horns of 
glazed powder and a red cloth blanket. These, it appears, were all of the effects of 
the great chief He told Capt. Church that those were Philiph royalties, which he 
was wont to adorn himself with when he sat in state, and he thought himself happy 
in having an opportunity to present them to him. 

The remainder of the night they spent in discourse, in which Annawon " gave an 
account of what mighty success he had had formerly in wars against many nations of 
Indians, when he served Amhimquin, Philip's father. Morning being come, they took 
up their march for Taunton. In the way they met Lieutenant Howland, according to 
appointment, at his no small surprise. They lodged at Taunton that night. The 
next day Capt. Church took old Annawon, and half a dozen Indian soldiers, and his 
own men, and went to Rhode Island ; the rest were sent to Plymouth, under Lieut. 
Howland. Not long after this, to the great grief of Capt. Church, Annawon was be- 
headed at Plymouth. It is true Church did not guarantee his life when he surrendered, 
but he had little doubt of his being able to save him, knowing how much the country 
was indebted to him in this war. 



SEEKONK 



In 1812, the west part of Rehoboth was incorporated into a dis- 
tinct township by its ancient name of Seekonk. This word in 



SEEKONK. 137 

the Indian language is the name for the wild or black goose, and 
this place probably received its name from the circumstance that 
great numbers of wild geese used frequently to alight in Seekonk 
river and cove.=^ This town is properly the ancient Rehoboth, it 
being the place where the first settlement was made. Some account 
of the first settlers, and the names of some of the first planters, 
will be found in the account given in this work of the town of 
Rehoboth. The town, or first settlement, was built in a semi- 
circular form, around what is now Seekonk common, (the south 
extremity of the plain,) with the meeting-house and parsonage in 
the center ; the semi-circle opening towards Seekonk or Paw- 
tucket river. This circle was afterwards called "The Ring of 
the Town." 

Seekonk is washed on the west by Providence river, separating 
it from the state of Rhode Island. There are three cotton facto- 
ries in the town, running nearly 6,000 spindles, and about 150 
looms. There are 2 houses of worship, 1 Congregational and 1 
Baptist. Population. 2,016. Distance from Providence 4 miles, 
14 S. W. of Taunton, and 41 miles southerly from Boston. The 
Boston and Providence railroad passes through this town. 

In the spring of 1676, during Philip's war, the Indians, dispers- 
ing themselves in small parties, committed dreadful ravages both 
in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The country being alarmed, 
Capt. Pierce, from Scituate, with sixty-three Englishmen and 
twenty friendly Indians from Cape Cod, was ordered to drive the 
Indians towards Rhode Island. He arrived at Seekonk on the 
25th of March. While in pursuit of the Indians, the next day, 
he was attacked and surrounded by an overwhelming force of 
savages ; after a desperate resistance, Capt. Pierce, with nearly 
all his men, were killed, after having slain, it is supposed, nearly 
double the number of their enemies. " Two days after Pierce's 
fight, a party of the Indians, crossing the river, laid the town in 
ashes, burning 40 houses and 30 barns." These houses were 
around the "Ring of the Town;" only two houses were left 
standing, — the garrison-house, which stood on the spot where the 
house of Phanuel Bishop now stands, and another house on the south 
end of the common, which was preserved by black sticks having 
been arranged around it, so as to give it at a distance the appearance 
of being strongly guarded. The houses were set on fire, as tradition 
informs us, early in the evening, and when the sun arose the 
next morning it beheld only a line of smoking ruins. It appears 
that only one person was killed ; he was an Irishman, a religious, 
but a singular and superstitious man. On the approach of the 
Indians, he refused to go into the garrison-house, but remained 
in his own house with his Bible in his hand, believing that while 
he continued reading it, nothing could harm him. He was, how- 
ever, shot through the window. 

* Bliss' History of Rehoboth. 

19 



139 fa B E K N K. 

There is a chair now in possession of Capt. Caleb Abell of See- 
konk, Avhich has been in possession of that family since the burn- 
ing by the Indians, and is dignified with the appellation of " King 
Philip's ChnirJ' According to the tradition preserved in the 
family, Philip was in the habit of frequently visiting the house of 
Preserved Abell, and whenever he came, this chair, being the 
"big armed-chair of the house," was brought forth as a mark of 
distinction for his seat. At the burning of the place in 1676, the 
Indians brought it out of the house for their chief (who is said to 
have been King Philip) to sit in, and enjoy the conflagration. 
When they left this house for another, an Indian threw a fire- 
brand into the chair, which consumed the bottom, but left the 
huge frame, with only scorching the parts to which the bottom 
was attached. 

Capt. Thomas Willet, who came over to this country in 1630, 
was buried in the limits of this town, at the head of Bullock's 
Cove. He was a very young man when he arrived, and was a 
merchant by profession. He first resided at Plymouth, and soon 
became a useful and distinguished man in the colony. When 
New York was surrendered by the Dutch, Capt. Willet was sent 
for by his majesty's commissioners to assist them in organizing 
the new government. After a residence of a few years in New 
York, he returned to his seat at Swansea, where he died in 1674. 
" The English mayor of the first commercial metropolis in Ame- 
rica, (says Mr. Daggett in his History of Attleborough,) lies buried 
on a lonely and barren heath, in the humble town of Seekonk, 
at a place seldom visited by the footsteps of man, with nought 
but the rudest monument to mark the spot." The following is 
the rudely carved inscription, still legible. 

1674. 
Here lyeth the body of the worthy Thomas Willet, Esq., who died August y" 4th, 
in the 64th year of his age, Anno . . . who was the first Mayor of New York, 
and twice did sustain the place. 

The following inscriptions are copied from monuments in the 
burying-ground in this town. 

Here rests the body of Mr. George Allen, a native of Sherbum in Great Britain, 
who died Jan. 20th, A. D. 1774, aged 78 years. His ingenuity & application to 
study were such, that in early life he made uncommon advances in the principal 
branches of Literature, cV, at the age of 17 was employed as a writing master in his 
native town. At the age of 21 he arrived at Boston, where he opened a school for the 
instruction of youth, in which occupation (in that &c other towns) he spent the Prime 
of his life ; his latter researches were better calculated for the promotion of Science, 
than for the advancement of his private interest. His friendly disposition and mode- 
ration were conspicuous to all who knew him. 



A tribute of respect to Hosea Humphrey, Esq., who died June 30th, 1816, aged 59. 
He was a native of Connecticut, was highly esteemed there as a Philosopher, Physi- 
cian & Statesman ; was honored with a seat in the Convention for adopting the 
Federal Constitution, fc also of the Legislature ; and ever defended the rights of man 
with a liberal independent spirit. — Erected by the affec' onate regard of his afflicted 
widow. 



S W A N S K Y . 139 



SOMERSET. 



This town is pleasantly situated on the western side of Taun- 
ton river, opposite tlie lown of Fall River. Previous to its incor- 
poration in 1790, it formed a part of Swansey, and was called the 
Shaimmet Pifrchase. Taunton river to this place is navigable for 
vessels of considerable burthen. This place is 13 miles from 
Taunton, 16 trom Providence, and 45 from Boston. Population, 
1,063. In five years preceding 1837, there were 12 vessels built; 
tonnage, 69(). This town has about 1,200 tons of shipping, and 
7 potteries, where stone and earthen ware are manufactured. 
There are 4 churches: 2 Baptist, 1 Friends, and 1 Methodist. 



SWANSEY. 



A PART of this town was originally comprehended in the ancient 
limits of Rehoboth. It forms a part of the tract called by the In- 
dians Wtifwamoiset, situated in this town and Barrington, R. I. 
Swansey was incorporated as a town in 1667, and comprehended 
in its limits at that period the present tov.ai, >Somerset, Barring- 
ton, and the greater part of Warren, R. I. The town derived its 
name from Sicansea in Wales, and was so spelled in the earliest 
records. In 1649, Obadiah Holmes and several others in Reho- 
both, having embraced the Baptist sentiments, withdrew them- 
selves from Mr. Newman's church, and set up a separate meeting 
of their own. The attempt to break them up, and the persecution 
they received, increased the number of Baptists. In 1663, they 
were much strengthened by the arrival of Rev. .lohn Myles, with 
part of his church, which he had formed at Wales, whence he had 
been ejected for non-conformity. In the same year of his arrival 
Mr. Myles formed a Baptist church in Rehoboth, the fourth 
formed in America. It was organized in the house of John But- 
terworth, and commenced with seven members, viz. John Miles 
(or Myles), pastor, James Brown, Nicholas Taimer, Joseph Car- 
penter, John Butterworth, Eldad Kingsley, and Benjamin Alby. 
These and subsequent proceedings, were deemed such an evil by 
the rest of the inhabitants of the town and of the colony generally, 
that the court of Plymouth was called on to interfere. Each mem- 
ber of this new church was fined £.5, prohibited from worship 
for the space of owe- nwnth ; and they were advised to remove 
from Rehoboth to some place wliere they might not prejudice any 
existing church. They accordingly removed to Wannamoiset, 
and erected a house near Kelley's bridge, on a neck of land now in 
the limits of Barrington. They afterwards erected another about 
half a mile from '' Myles's bridge," on the east side of Palmer's 
river, a short distance from where the present house of worsliip 
now stands. 

The central village :of S^ransey contains about a dozen dwelling- 



140 S W A N S E Y . 

houses, and a Union church for various denominations. Some 
of the inhabitants of the town are engaged in navigation and ship- 
building ; there is also a cotton factory, 2 paper-mills, and a wool- 
len factory. There are 3 Baptist churches. Population, 1,627. 
Distance, 14 miles S. W. of Taunton, 20 from New Bedford, 14 
from Providence, 10 N. E. of Bristol, R. I., and 46 southerly of 
Boston. 

This town will be memorable on account of its being the place 
where the first English blood was shed in "King Philip's War." 
Philip having laid his plans for the extermination of the English, 
his warriors were so impatient that he was obliged to promise 
them that on the next Lord's day, when the English were gone to 
meeting, they should rifle their houses and kill their cattle. Ac- 
cordmgly, on Sunday, June 20th, 1675, he permitted his men to 
march out into the neighborhood of Swansey, and to annoy the 
English by killing their cattle, thus hoping to provoke them to 
commence the attack; for it is said a superstitious opinion pre- 
vailed among them, that the side which did the first execution 
would finally be conquered. The Indians were so insolent in 
their deportment and language, that an Englishman was so pro- 
voked that he fired upon one of them and wounded him. This, 
according to Mr. Hubbard, in his "Indian Wars," was the first 
gun fired. According to tradition, this Indian who was wounded, 
after killing a number of cattle in the field, went into the man's 
house and demanded liquor ; being refused, he attempted to take 
it by violence, and at the same time threatened revenge; this 
caused the Englishman to fire upon him. The Indians upon this 
commenced open war. 

The following is Mr. Hubbard's account of the first shedding 
of English blood: — "On the 24th of June, 1675, was the alarm 
of war first sounded in Plymouth colony, when eight or nine of 
the English were slain in and about Swansey ; they (the Indians) 
first making a shot at a company of English as they returned 
from the assembly, where they were met in a way of humiliation 
on that day, whereby they killed one and wounded others ; and 
then likewise at the same time they slew two men on the high- 
way, sent to call a surgeon ; and the same day barbarously mur- 
dered six men in and about a dwelling-house in another part of 
the town ; all of which outrages were committed so suddenly, that 
the English had no time to make resistance." 

At this period the house of Rev. John Miles was garrisoned. It 
stood a short distance west of Miles' bridge, probably near the 
site of the tavern of Mason Barney, Esq. Intelligence of the mur- 
der of the Swansey people having reached Boston, a foot company, 
under Capt. Henchman, and a troop, under Capt. Prentice, imme- 
diately marched for Mount Hope, and being joined by another 
company of 110 volunteers under Capt. Mosely, they all arrived 
at Swansey on the 28th of June, where they found the Plymouth 
forces under Capt. Cudworth. Mr. Miles' was made head-quar- 
ters. About a dozen of the troop went immediately over the 



TAUNTON. 141 

bridge, where they were fired upon out of the bushes, one killed 
and one wounded. This action drew the body of the English 
forces after the enemy, whom they piu'sued a mile or two, until 
they took to a swamp, after having killed about half a dozen of 
their number. The next morning the troops commenced their 
pursuit of the Indians. Passing over Miles' bridge, and proceed- 
ing down the east bank of the river, till they came to the narrow 
of the neck, at a place called Keekamuit or Kickemuit, they 
found tlie heads of eight Englishmen that the Indians had mur- 
dered, set upon poles by the side of the way. These they took 
down and buried. On arriving at Mount Hope they found that 
Philip and his Indians had left the place. 



TAUNTON. 

It is believed that the first Englishmen who first traversed the 
soil of this ancient town, (called by the Indians Cohannet.^ were 
Edward Winslow and Stephen Hopkins, on their visit to Massa- 
soit, in July, 1621. They found it depopulated and desolate ; the 
ravages of the great plague were every Avhere discernible. At 
Tetlqiiet and Namasket there were Indian villages. The territory 
of Taunton proper (which formerly included within its limits the 
towns of Berkley and Raynham,) was claimed by the sachem of 
Tetiquet. In this territory there were no Indian settlements except 
in a small part of Raynham. It appears, however, that the 
country bordering on the river had been thickly populated, and 
the land cleared on both sides for a considerable distance. When 
first visited many of the remains of the natives were discovered 
unburied. At the head of the list of purchasers of Taunton, stands 
the name of Henry Uxley : who he was, does not appear. His 
house and lot were sold to Richard Williams, who may in some 
measure be considered as the father of Taunton, as he was in the 
place before the purchase of Miss Pool. Mr. Williams was a 
Welshman, and it is not improbable that he was a relation of 
Roger Williams. A tradition has always existed amongst his 
descendants that he was related by blood to Oliver Cromwell, the 
original name of whose family was Williams, (which name was 
changed for an estate.) and one of Cromwell's ajicestors bore the 
name of Richard Williams.* 

The inland situation of Taunton prevented for some time much ac- 
cession to the number of settlers. The first settlers, with few excep- 
tions, were from Somersetshire and Devonshire, and many of them 
from Taunton, in England. The first purchase was made in 1637, 
and confirmed afterwards; this was called the Tetlqiiet purchase, 
this being the Indian name for the great river of Taunton. About 
the period of its settlement, Miss Elizabeth Pool, a lady of family 
and fortune, from Taunton, in Somersetshire, Eng., conceived the 

* Baylies' Hist. Memoir of Plymouth Colony, vol. i. p. 288. 



143 TAUNTON. 

bold design of occupying the territory of Cohannet. It appears that 
an ardent desire of planting another church in the American 
wilderness, induced this pious puritan lady to encounter all the 
dangers and hardships of forming a settlement in the midst of 
the Indians. She died in 1654, and her kinsman placed over her 
grave a stone with an inscription which commemorates her 
virtues. 

The first and ancient purchasers stand in the following order 

Henry Uxley, John Dean, William Hailstone, Francis Street, 

Richard Williams, John Strong, William Parker, Hugh Rossiter, 

Joseph Wilson, Henry Andrews, John Parker, John Gilbert, 

Benjamin Wilson, Thomas Cooke, John Richmond, Thomas Gilbert, 

William Coy, John Smith, William HoUoway, Robert Hobell, 

George Hall, Mr. Thomas Farwell, The Wid. Randall, Richard Burt, 

David Corwithy, Edward Case, Francis Doty, John Grossman, 

Mr. William Pool, John Kingsley, William Dunn, John Luther, 

George Macy, Richard Paull, William Scadding, John Drake, 

William Harvey, Richard Smith, John Bryant, Mr. John Brown. 

Hezekiah Hoar, Mr. John Gilbert, Anthony Slocum, 

Walter Dean, William Phillips, John Gengille, 

In a pamphlet entitled " Plain Dealing or Newes from New 
England," written by Thomas Lechford of Clements Inn, Jan. 
17, 1641, and published in London, 1642, the writer, speaking of 
Taunton, says — • 

Cohannet, alias Taunton, is in Plymouth patent. There is a church gathered of 
late, and some ten or twenty of the church, the rest excluded ; Master Hooke, pastor ; 
Master Street, teacher. Master Hooke received ordination from the hands of one 
Master Bishop, a school-master, and one Parker, a husbandman, and then Master 
Hooke joyned in ordaining Master Street. One Master Doughty, a minister, opposed 
the gathering of the church there, alleging that according to the covenant of Abraham, 
all men's children that were of baptized parents, and so Abraham's children, ought to 
be baptized ; and spoke so in publique, or to that effect, which was held a disturbance, 
and the ministers spake to the magistrate to order him ; the magistrate commanded 
the constable, who dragged Master Doughty out of the assembly. He was forced to 
go away from thence with his wife and children. 

Rev. William Hooke, who must be considered the first pastor of 
the Taunton church, was born about the year 1600. He married 
the sister of Edward Whalley, a major general in the Parliament's 
army, one of the regicides^ so called, from being one of the judges 
who condemned Charles I. to death. Mr. Hooke left Taunton 
about 1640, and removed to New Haven, Con., from whence in 
1656 he returned to England. He was received in the family of 
the Lord Protector, Oliver Cromwell, as domestic chaplain. After 
the restoration of Charles II., he was silenced for non-conformity, 
and died in London, in 1677. 

Taunton is a shire town; it is pleasantly situated at the head of 
sloop navigation on Taunton river. This place has great water 
power by the junction of Canoe and Rumford rivers with the 
Taunton, and is well improved for manufacturing purposes. 
There are about 30 sail of coasters of considerable burthen which 
ply between this place and the neighboring ports. A branch of 
the Boston and Providence railroad is extended to this place. 



TAUNTON, 



143 



There are 8 churches : 4 Congregational, 2 Baptist, 1 Episcopal, 1 
Methodist, and 1 CathoUc. The center of the main village is orna- 
mented with an enclosed green with shade-trees, on one side of 
which is situated the court-house and other handsome buildings. 
There are 3 banks, the "Taunton Bank," with a capital of $250,- 
000, the " Bristol County Bank," capital $100,000, and the 
" Cohannet Bank," capital $100,000. There are two insurance 
companies. This place is 32 miles from Boston, 20 from Provi- 
dence, and 32 from Newport, R. I. Population of the town, 7,647. 
In the Statistical Tables of the state, published in 1837, it is stated 
there were 8 cotton mills ; 3,043,887 yards of cotton goods were 
manufactured : males employed, 124 ; females, 468. One print 
works, which printed 5,869.860 yards of cloth ; males employed, 
250 ; females, 40 ; capital invested, $200,000. Seven millions and 
one hundred thousand of bricks were manufactured, valued at 
$28,000 ; ninety-iive hands employed. Forty thousand straw 
bonnets were manufactured, valued at $62,000. Three nail fac- 
tories, which manufactured 256 tons, valued at $60,500. One air 
and cupola furnace, which made 2,000 tons of iron castings, valued 
at $200,000; one forge, which manufactured 400 tons of bar iron, 
valued at $35,000. Besides these, there are various other articles 
manufactured, such as boots, shoes, hats, &c. 




Monument of Miss Pool, Taunton Cemetery. 

A cemetery has been recently laid out in the immediate vici- 
nity of the main village of Taunton, (called Mount Pleasant Ceme- 
tery,) upon the plan of that at Mount Auburn, in the vicinity of 
Boston. The ground is well calculated for this object, being agree- 
ably diversified with elevations and depressions, and the soil is 
superior to that of Mount Auburn. The engraving shows the ap- 
pearance of the monument of Miss Pool, at the entrance of the 
cemetery. The following is the inscription on this monument. 

The Females of Taunton have erected this monument in honor of Elizabjth Poc*. 

20 



144 TAUNTON. 

foundress of the tovni of Taunton, in 1637. Born before the settlement of America^ 
in England, 1589, died at Taunton, May 21, 16o4. 



The following account is taken from the pamphlet containing 
Mr. Conant's sermon at the execution of Bristol, an African boy, 
for the murder of Miss McKinstry. It is proper to state that 
some accounts say that this boy had been informed, that if he 
would kill some one, and run away, he would obtain his liberty. 

The bloody murder of Miss Elizabeth McKinstry, on June the 4th, 1763, which 
gave occasion for the preaching of the foregoing discourse, may Truly he placed 
among the astonishing Events of Providence and the alarming Frailties of human 
nature. One cannot call to mind the particular circumstances of this tragic scene 
■without the deepest Emotions of Horror, Pity and Indignation. 

The Negro Boy who perpetrated this lamentable crime was born in Africa, and at 
the age of about eight years was brought to New England, where he lived about five 
years in the same family with I\Iiss ]McKinstry, at Windsor. His master then dying, 
he was purchased by her brother. Dr. fllcKinstry, of Taunton, where he had Hved 
three years ^\hen the murder was committed, the deceased having been also about 
two years in the same family ; so that from his childhood ^excepting one year) he had 
lived in the same Family with her, and during this time ne was treated with all the 
tenderness and Instruction that could be desired. He always appeared happy in his 
situation, and showed an uncommon Readiness to do his business and Faithfulness to 
perform what he undertook, without the least appearance of SuUenness or Blalice. 
After he had the fact he rode to Newport, never showing the least concern till he was 
apprehended ; he then made some artfi»l excuses, till he had been committed about 
twelve hours, when he confessed the whole fact ; the substance of which was, " that 
early in the morning. Miss McKinstry, a little Girl, and himself, being the only per- 
sons" of the Family that were up, and the little girl being gone up stairs, as Miss 
McKinstry was stooping over the fire, he catched up a Flat Iron that stood on the 
hearth, struck her on the head, and knocked her into the fire, which burnt her face ; 
he then gave her another Blow, and Immediately dragged her down the cellar stairs, 
where, seeing an old ax, he struck her with it on the head, and made ofi" as fast as iie 
could." 

After his commitment he appeared very penitent, and expressed his sorrow for the 
crime, particularly for the grief he had brought on his master's Family, in speaking 
of which he always seemed the most affected. He declared constantly, during the 
whole of his imprisonment, to his last moments, that he never had any anger against 
the deceased, nor any of the Family, and that he had never received any Treatment 
that deserved it ; and though he always appeared free to answer any Questions that 
were asked him, yet he never gave any reason for committing the crime, but that he 
was prompted to it by a Negro Boy of his acquaintance, who Threatened to kill him 
if he did not do it. This he persisted in to his dj'ing moment. 

At his trial he pleaded guilty, but showed no emotion at the pronouncing sentence 
of Death, nor at the public worship, where in his hearing several sermons besides this 
were preached on the occasion, nor even at the execution. This would naturally be 
construed to Stupidity or Sullenness, had not his discourse plainly shown that he had 
a true sense of his Crime and right notions of a future state. 

At the Gallows he made a long speech to the Spectators, particularly to those of his 
own color, which for Substance was pertinent and important. He expressed great 
concern for his master's Family, was very particular in thanking every Body that had 
taken notice of him while in Prison; he acknowledged his condemnation just ; he ex- 
pressed his sense of his guilt and the hopes he had of forgiveness and future happiness 
through the Mercy of God in Christ ; and then, after repeating the Lord's Prayer dis- 
tinctly, he was turned off". The deceased, who was the unhappy object of this unac- 
countable Malice, was a Daughter of the Eev. Mr. John McKinstiy, late of Windsor, 
a young Lady of cheerful disposition, an even, generous temper, and every way of a 
worthy character. After tarrjdng with her Brother, she was preparing to return to 
her Mother at Windsor, when, in a moment that she thought not of, she was hurried 
in this cruel manner to her long home. 

The following inscriptions are copied from monuments in the 
ancient burying-ground. 



TAUNTON. 145 

Here rest the remains of Mrs. Elizabeth Pool, a native of old England of good Fam- 
ily, Friends & prospects, all of which she left in the prime of her life to enjoy the 
Religion of her Conscience in this distant wilderness. A great proprietor of the town 
ship of Taunton, a chief promoter of its settlement and its incorporation, A. D. 1639, 
about which time she settled near this spot, and having employed the opportunytys ol 
her virgin state in Piety, Liberality of manners, died May 21st, A. D. 1654, aged 65, 
to whose memory this monument is gratefully erected by her next of kin lohn Borland, 
Esq. A. D. 177L 

In memory of the Hon. Samuel White, Esq. Colonel of a foot Regiment of MiHtia, 
Barrister at Law and member of the Hon. his Majesty's Council, who often having 
been delegated to the olhces of Cxovernment, faithfully served his God, his king and his 
country, and exhibiting through an unspotted course of life, the virtues of the Patriot, 
Friend and Christian, lell asleep in Jesus, March XX, MDCCLXIX, in the LIX year 
of his age. 

This humble stone, small tribute of their praise 
Lamented shade ! thy weeping ofispring raise! 
O while their footsteps haunt ye hallow'd shrine, 
May each fair Branch shoot fertile as ye vine ; 
Not with thy Dust be here thy virtue's tomb 
But bright" ning still each Grace transplanted bloom, 
Sire, Sons and Daughters shall a like renowai ; 
Applauding angels ! a celestial crown ! 



Parentibus optitnus bene merentibus.* 
Zephaniah Leonard, Esq. who died April the 23d, A. D. 1766, in the 63d year of his 
age, & Hannah, his wife, who died the same day, in the 62d year of her age. 
To dust and silence so much worth consigned. 
Sheds a sad gloom o'er vanities behind. 
Such our pursuits ? proud mortals vainly soar. 
See here, the wise, the virtuous are no more. 
How mean Ambition ! how completely hate ; 
How dim the tinsel glories of the Great ! 
***** 
& Death & hovering darkness hide us aU. 



Inscribed to the memory of the Hon"''- Seth Padelford, Esq., who deceased January 
7th, 1810, aged 58 years and 1 month. For he was wise to know, and warm to praise, 
and strenuous to transcribe in human hfe Tue Mind Almighty. 



Robert Treat Paine, a poet of some celebrity, was born in this 
town, December 9th, 1773. His father was the Hon. Robert Treat 
Paine, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. In 
his eighth year his father removed to Boston. He was graduated 
at Harvard in 1792, with a high reputation for genius. He was 
soon after placed in the counting-room of a merchant, but left 
it for literary occupations, and published several poems and ora- 
tions, which at the time were highly popular. In 1S02, he 
began the practice of law, but failed of success for want of appli- 
cation ; and he spent the latter part of his life in poverty. He 
died Nov. 13th, 1811, aged 38. His national song, Adams and 
Liberty, is perhaps the most widely known ; of which the follow- 
ing is the first stanza. 

Ye sons of Columbia, who bravely have fought 

For those rights, which unstained from your sires had descended, 

May you long taste the blessings your valor has bought, 
And your sons reap the soil which their fathers defended. 

* A worthy sou of worthy parents. 



146 DUKES COUNTY. 

'Mid the reign of mild peace 

May your nation increase, 
With the glory of Rome, and the wisdom of Greece ; 
And ne'er shall the sons of Columbia be slaves, 
While the earth bears a plant, or the sea rolls its waves. 



WESTPORT 



This town, previous to its incorporation in 1787, was a part of 
Dartmouth. There are two small villages in the town, one at the 
head of East river, the other at Westport Point. The people are 
much divided in religious sentiments. There are 5 meeting-houses : 
2 for Friends, 2 for Baptists, and 1 for Methodists. There is also 
a small society of Congregationalists. The village at the head of 
East or Nochacuck river is about 8 miles from New Bedford, 8 
from Fall River, and 21 from Newport. Formerly considerable 
quantities of timber were obtained in this town. The whale fish- 
ery is now an important branch of business ; eight whaling ves- 
sels now go out from Westport Point. There is a cotton mill in 
this town, having 3,072 spindles, which in 1837 consumed 300,000 
lbs. of cotton ; 270,000 lbs. of cotton yarn were manufactured, the 
value of which was ^67,500. 



DUKES COUNTY. 



This county is formed of the islands of Martha's Vineyard, 
Chappequiddick, Elizabeth Islands, and Noman's Land. The last- 
mentioned island is the southern extremity of Massachusetts. 
These islands lie off south of Barnstable county and Buzzard's 
Bay, and contain about 120 square miles. The principal island, 
Martha's Vineyard, is 19 miles in length from east to west, and its 
breadth in the widest part is 10 miles, and in the narrowest 2 miles : 
its mean breadth may be about 5 miles. Its usual Indian name 
was Capawock, though sometimes called Nope. (It is believed 
that Nope was more properly the name of Gay Head.) The 
greatest part of the island is low and level land ; though in the 
western part there is a range of hills, which begins a mile west of 
Lambert's Cove, where they are three quarters of a mile wide, and 
running in a chain parallel with the sound, rise to the height of 
250 feet, expand to the breadth of three miles, and terminate at 
Gay Head. These islands were discovered by Bartholomew Gos- 
uold, in 1602. He landed at Noman's Land, which he called 
Martha's Vineyard, passed round Gay Head, which he named 
Dover Cliff, anchored in Vineyard sound, and landed on Catta- 
iiunk, which he named Elizabeth Island, in honor of Queen Eliz- 
abeth. Here he concluded to begin a plantation, and accordingly 
chose a site at the west end of the island. Here, on the north side, 
iS a small pond of fresh water, two miles in circumference ; in the 



DUKES COUNTY. 147 

middle of its breadth, near the west end, is a small rocky islet. 
This they fortified, and upon it erected a storehouses^ AVhile the 
men were occupied in this work, Gosnold crossed the bay in his 
vessel, went on shore, trafficked amicably with the natives, and, 
having discovered the mouths of two rivers, returned to the island. 
One of these rivers was that on the banks of which New Bedford 
is now built. This storehouse was the first house built by the 
English on the New England shores. When Gosnold was prepar- 
ing to leave, discontent arose among those who were to have 
remained, so that the design of a settlement was relinquished, and 
the whole company returned to England. The next year, in June, 
Martin Pring entered the harbor of Edgartown, which he called 
Whitson's Bay, and anchored under the shelter of Chappequiddick 
neck, to which he gave the name of Mount Aldworth. Here he 
remained till the beginning of August, when he sailed for England. 
In 1619, Capt. Thomas Dermer landed at Martha's Vineyard, and 
was attacked by the natives. He and his companions gallantly 
defended themselves with their swords, and escaped. Several 
Indians were killed in the fray. 

Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, and the Elizabeth Islands were 
not included in any of the New England governments. William, 
Earl of Sterling, in consequence of a grant from the crown of Eng- 
land, laid claim to all the islands between Cape Cod and Hudson's 
river. James Forcett, agent for the earl, in Oct. 1641, granted to 
Thomas Mayhew, of Watertown, and Thomas Mayhew his son, 
Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, and the Elizabeth Islands, with 
the same powers of government which the people of Massachusetts 
possessed by charter. The elder Thomas Mayhew had been a 
merchant at Southampton, in England, and when he first came to 
America he followed the same employment. The next year after 
he obtained the grant of Martha's Vineyard, he sent his son and 
several other persons to begin a plantation, who established them- 
selves at Edgartown. The father himself soon followed, and 
became the governor of the colony. In 1644, by an act of the 
commissioners of the United Colonies of New England, probably 
at the request of the inhabitants, Martha's Vineyard was annexed 
to the jurisdiction of Massachusetts. In 1664, the Duke of York 
received from his brother, Charles II., a grant of New York, includ- 
ing Long Island, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, and the islands 
adjacent, which had been previously purchased of Henry, grand- 
son and heir of William Earl of Sterling, who previously resigned 
and assigned them to the duke. In consequence, these islands 
became a part of New York, but were left mostly to manage their 
own affairs. It was while Martha's Vineyard and Elizabeth Islands 
were connected with New York that, with Nantucket, they 
were made a county by the name of Dukes County. By the char- 

* The cellar of Gosnold's storehouse is yet to be seen, the stones of which were taken 
from the neighboring beach ; the rocks of the islet being less movable and 1 ying in 
.edges. This place is what Josselyn and other old authors call " old Plymouth planta- 
tion, begun in 1602." 



1 48 C H I L M A R K . 

ter of William and Mary, which arrived in 1692, these islands 
were taken from New York and annexed to Massachusetts. In 
1695, Martha's Vineyard, the Elizabeth Islands, and Noman's Land, 
were separated by the legislature from Nantucket, and made a dis- 
tinct county. These islands suffered much in the revolutionary 
war. The vessels of the inhabitants were all taken and destroyed, 
the young men were captured, and many of them died on board 
prison ships. They lost most of their cattle and sheep, which 
were taken off by tlie enemy. In the last war with England, the 
inhabitants of these islands, from their exposed situation, were 
obliged to remain neutral. In this county there are 3 towns, viz. 
Chilmark, Edgartown, and Tisbury, 



C H I L M A R K 



This township comprehends the west end of Martha's Vineyard, 
the Elizabeth Islands, and Noman's Land. The territory on Mar- 
tha's Vineyard is 10 miles in length, and from 2 to 5 miles in 
breadth. The Indian name of this part of the island was Nash- 
ou-oh-ka-muck, and it was the last settled by the English. There 
was, however, a village here before the close of the seventeenth cen- 
tury. Whilst it was under the government of New York, it was 
called the manor of Tisbury, but it was known by the name of 
Chilmark as long ago as 1698. The first town meeting was held 
in 1705, and in 1707 it first sent a representative to the general 
court. It was incorporated by the name which it now bears in 
1714. 

The first minister in Chilmark was Rev. Ralph Thacher; the 
time of his ordination is unknown. He Avas dismissed at his 
request in 1714. In 1715 Wilham Holmes was ordained. He was 
a man of worth, and died in the ministry. In 1746, Andrew 
Boardman was ordained; and died of the small-pox in 1777. He 
was succeeded by Jonathan Smith, ordained in 1788, dismissed in 
1827. Here are 2 meeting-houses, 1 Congregational, 1 Methodist. 
Distance 12 miles S. W. by S. of Edgartown, and 92 southerly 
from Boston. 

The surface of this township is more varied than that of the 
other towns in the county. Tlie northern and western part is 
uneven, having many hills, which afford an extensive prospect of 
the ocean, the sound, the Elizabeth Islands, the shore of Fal- 
mouth, and the country beyond the islands. The scene is enlivened 
by vessels which are continually passing. There are several 
pleasant and fertile valleys between the hills, about 2 miles from 
the sound, some of whicli afford iron ore. Considerable quantities 
of this ore have been exported to the forges on the main. Deli- 
vered at the sound it is Avorth about 2 dollars per ton. The stones 
and rocks which lie on these hills are granite ; many of them are 
large, and some of singular shapes. Several at a distance might 



C H I L M A R K . 



149 



be mistaken for houses. One has a roof Hke a bam, another is 
almost a perfect cone, and is called the Sugar Loaf; and others 
are hollowed out in the form of a bowl. The soil is clay, inter- 
mixed with sand, the clay predominating. There are several 
plains which are sandy. Both the clayey and sandy places are 
stony. The land, properly manured, produces good crops of Indian 
corn, rye, oats, and potatoes. There is more grass land hi this 
town than in other parts of the island. There are but a few brooks, 
and those small. Swamps are more numerous, lying mostly in the 
western part of the township, but are not very extensive. Several 
of them have been cleared and converted into meadows. The best 
land in the isliuid is at Gay Head, which is reserved to the Indians. 
There are a number of ponds in the town, the largest of which is 
Chilmark Great Pond, which consists of two parts connected by 
an artificial creek, the length of which is 2 miles, east and west. 
There is a small pond near the north-west corner of the township, 
covering about an acre of ground, and situated on land 70 feet 
above high water. It is so deep that its bottom has never yet 




Lighthouse at Gay Head, Chilmark, Martha's Vineyard. 

oeen found. Most of the shore bordering this township is formed 
of cliffs of clay, of blue and red colors, disposed in layers. At the 
west end of the town and island, is a peninsula of about three and 
a half miles in length and one and a half in breadth, containing 
2,400 acres, the north-west point of which is Gay Head, about 100 
feet in beight. This cliff is composed of clay and other substances, 
red, yellow, blue, indigo, black, and white; and to those who are 
on board a vessel sailing near the shore, especially after a rain, 
and when the snn shines on it, it is a brilliant and beautiful object ; 
hence it derived the name of Gay Head. A lighthouse which 
stands on it elevates a light 50 feet more above the level of the 
sea. 

At Gay Head is the. Devil's Den, which, notwithstanding the terror of its name, has 
nothing formidable in its appearance. It is a depression in the hill in the form of a 



150 C H I L M A R K . 

bowl, except that It is open on the side next the sea, through which it is not difficult to 
descend to the strand. It is about 400 yards around, and 100 feet deep. If it was on the 
top of a mountain it might be called a crater. In this cavity, according to an Indiaa 
traditionary fable, many years before the English came to Martha's Vineyard, a giant, 
or tutelar deity, named Maushope, resided. Here he broiled the whale on a fire made 
of the largest trees, which he pulled up by the roots. Though a mahgnant spirit has now 
taken possession of his den, yet the first occupier was a benevolent being, and he kindly 
supplied the Indians with whales and other fish. After separating Neman's Land from 
Gay Head, metamorphosing his children into fishes, and throwing his wife on Saconet 
Point, where she still remains a misshapen rock, he went away, nobody knew whither. 
Perhaps the report that volcanic flames have been seen to ascend from the Devil's Den 
is as fabulous as the story of Maushope, as they have never been observed by any of 
the well-informed inhabitants. It has been suggested that the above story of the giant 
might have originated by the Indians finding fossil skeletons of large marine animals 
at that place, and from supposing the lignite which there abound to be the remains ot 
his fires. '' 



From Gay Head across to Cattahimk, a ledge of sunken rocks 
extends, known by the name of the Devil's Bridge, concerning the 
origin of which the Indians had the following tradition. The 
same famous giant Maushope undertook to build a bridge or cause- 
way there, and had thrown in the rocks and a shoefuU of earth, 
which he scraped out from the Devil's Den, but, one day, while 
working in the water, a crab bit his toe, which so vexed him that 
he abandoned his project. 

Gay Head is inhabited by descendants of the native Indians, 
who own there 2,4U0 acres of land, most of which is under good 
improvement. Their dwelling-houses, upwards of 35, are mostly 
one story, and are comfortably built. The number of their popu- 
lation is 235. Their church, which at present is of the Baptist 
denomination, is 148 years old, since the organization, and now 
consists of 47 communicants. Their present minister is Rev. 
Joseph Amos, an Indian, of Marshpee, entirely blind, but a preach- 
er of considerable ingenuity. Within a few years the condition of 
these people has much improved in point of temperance and gene- 
ral moral reformation. In this good cause, Simon Johnson, and 
Zacheus Hauwassowee are actively engaged. 

The Elizabeth Islands are separated from Martha's Vineyard by 
the sound, and from Falmouth by a strait called Wood's Hole. 
Begiiming north-east, the first island is Naimamesset, which is a 
mile and a quarter long, and half a mile in breadth. It is inha- 
bited by 3 families, and has salt-works. In the 8. W. part of the 
island is a high hill called Mount Sod. The next island, Onka- 
tomka, is three quarters of a mile in length, and half a mile in 
breadth. Between Nannamesset and Nashawn, towards the sound, 
are two small islands, called the Ram Islands. South-west from 
Nannamesset, an<l divided from it by the Gut, is Nashawn. This 
island is seven miles and a half long, and a mile and a quarter broad. 
The soil in the eastern part is a sandy loam and good, in the 
western part light and inferior. Nearly one half of the island is 
in wood and swamps. At half a mile distance, north of Nashawn, 
in Buzzard's Bay, are 3 small islands, called Wepecket Islands, 
the largest of which is not a quarter of a mile in length. West 
of Nashawn, and separated from it by a strait called Robinson':* 



EDQARTOWN. 151 

Hole, is Pasque Island, which is a mile and three quarters long. 
Tlie soil is light, and more stony than the other Elizabeth Islands. 
South-west from Pasque, and separated from it by Quick's Hole, is 
Nashawenna, three miles and a quarter long, and a mile and a 
quarter broad. Cattahunk lies west of Nashawenna, from which it 
is- separated by a shoal, and is two miles and a half long, and 
three quarters of a mile broad. The soil is rich and good. North 
of Cattahunk is Pcnequese, which is three fourths of a mile long, 
and half a mile broad. Three quarters of a mile east of Pene- 
quese is Gull Island, which is less than a fourth of a mile in length. 
The Elizabeth Islands are stony, but the soil is mostly good. 
Cattle are kept on all the islands, but they are the most noted for 
their sheep, which are larger and produce finer fleeces than those 
on Martha's Vineyard. No'man''s Land belongs to Chilmark, and 
is situated 4 miles from Squibnocket Point, and six and a half from 
Gay Head. This island is a mile and three quarters long, and 
three quarters of a mile wide. The land is composed of hills of a 
moderate elevation, and of several small swamps. There are no 
trees, but there are bushes in the swamps, and in some of them 
there is peat. The soil of the upland is warm, and in general 
gravelly. The island is mostly used for the feeding of sheep. 
There are two dwelling-houses, and from 15 to 20 huts, which 
shelter the pilots, who go to the island, principally in the winter, 
to look out for vessels which are coming on the coast. 

The number of sheep in the town of Chilmark, in 1837, was 6,470, 
of which 1,600 were merinos; the average weight of each fleece 
2 lbs.; value of wool produced, $5,180. Population of the town, 
699. 



EDGARTOWN. 



This town lies on the eastern part of Martha's Vineyard, and is 
9 miles in length and 5 in breadth, exclusive of Chappequiddick 
island, which belongs to the town. This place is also known by 
the name of Oldtown. It is usually said to have been first settled 
by Thomas Mayhew and his company, in 1642 ; but it appears 
there were 10 or 12 English families settled at Edgartown before 
Mayhew went on to the island. These families first landed at 
Pease Point, which is a part of Starbuck Neck. The ship in 
which they came was bound to Virginia, but fell by accident into 
this port, and, being short of provisions, these families preferred 
remaining and taking their chance with the Indians, to proceeding 
on the voyage. Four of their names have been handed down to 
us : Pease, Vincent, Norton, and Trapp, the three former of which 
still remain on the island. They landed late in the autumn, and 
were supplied during the first winter with fish and corn by the na- 
tives. Mayhew and his associates united with them, and laid out 
the land into 42 shares. There are circumstances which render it 
probable that Mayhew the younger had been on the island some 
time before the grant was obtained. The town was incorporated in 

21 



J 52 



EDQARTOWN 



1671, while under the government of New York, by Francis Love- 
lace, then governor of that colony. 

The first church was gathered in 1641, and Thomas Mayhew 
ordained pastor. He died in 1657. Thomas Mayhew the father 
preached to the Indians, and also to the English, after the death 
of his son. Jonathan Dunham was ordained in 1694. Samuel 
Wiswall was ordained in 1713. He died in 1746, and was suc- 
ceeded the next year by John Newman. He was dismissed in 
175S, and succeeded by Samuel Kingsbury, (from Dedham,) 
ordained in 1761. Mr. Kingsbury died of small-pox in 1778, and 
the next pastor, Joseph Thaxter, was ordained in 1780, and conti- 
nued in that office till his death, in 1827. 




Eastern view of Edgartorvn. 

The village of Edgartown is pleasantly situated on the west side 
of the harbor, 91 miles S. E. of Boston, 20 N. W. by W. of Nan- 
tucket, 28 S. E. by E. of New Bedford, 20 S. of Falmouth, 495 
from Washington. It is a county town and port of entry. Hero 
is the court-house, and 3 churches : 1 Congregational, 1 Baptist, 
and 1 Methodist. 

The annexed engravings are different views of the village of 
Edgartown. The above cut shows the appearance of the central 
part of the place, as it is seen from the island of Chappequiddick, 
lying eastward of the town. The engraving on the next page 
shows the appearance of the village as it is seen from the water, 
in a northern direction from the place. Eight vessels are employed 
in the whale fishery from this town. Population, 1,625. 

Oldtown harbor is the strait between Martha's Vineyard and 
Chappequiddick Island. It is composed of two parts. The outer 
harbor extends from Cape Poge to Starbuck's Neck, and is 4 or 5 
fathoms deep. From this neck the harbor winds to the south, and 
against the town is half a mile wide. This harbor is safe and 
excellent, and is esteemed one of the best in the United States. It 



E n G A R T O W N' 



ir,3 



is so much better than that of Nantucket, that the whalemen of 
that island come to this place to take in their water and fit out 




Northern view of Edgartown. 

their ships. The excellent water of this town is conveyed to them 
by troughs which run over the wharves, at the end of which the 
ships lie, and by hose is conveyed into the casks in the holds. The 
head of Edgartown harbor is Matakeeset Bay, which communicates 
with the ocean by a strait called Washqua outlet, 50 rods wide, and 
from 4 to 10 feet deep at high water. The surface of this town is 
mostly level. A plain extends from Starbuck's Neck 8 miles west, 
and is from 5 to 6 miles wide, and elevated about eighteen feet above 
the level of the sea. Round Edgartown harbor there are a few ele- 
vated spots, which rise from 60 to 75 feet above the sea. There is 
an elevation of land in this town, near the Tisbury line, of 120 feet, 
on which is situated a pond of fresh water, of about 20 rods 
in length, and 10 in breadth, and 5 or 6 feet deep. It has 
never been known to be dry ; and as there is no water, either salt 
or fresh, within 4 miles of it, it is of much utility. In this town 
there is no stream sufficiently large to carry a mill, and all the 
grinding of corn and grain is done by windmills. Salt is made 
here to a considerable extent. The water is raised by pumps 
worked by windmills, and is led along by troughs to the cisterns 
or vats, which are filled to the depth of 3 or 4 inches, in which it 
is dried down by the sun. The domestic manufiicture of wool in 
this town is of considerable importance. Besides flannels and 
blankets, many thousand pairs of stockings, mittens, and caps or 
wigs, are annually made and sold. Fish of various kinds are 
taken in abundance in the harbor, coves, and ponds of this town. 
The herring fishery has become very profitable. Edgartown has 
at present 7 whale ships, 2 schooners, and 8 or 10 sloops and 
smacks. 

Chappequiddick Island lies on the east side of Edgartown harbor, 
and, including Cape Poge, is 6 miles long and 3 broad. The soil 
is sandy, but is thought to be more productive than the opposite 
land in Edgartown. There is some wood on the island, which is 
.chiefly oak of various sorts. The east and north parts of the Island 



164 T I S B U R Y . 

are level, but the west part rises into hills 60 feet high. Samp- 
son's hill in the center is 100 feet in height. On this island are 
about .50 families. The heads of several of these families, of the 
name of Fisher, living near Washqua Point, are celebrated as bold 
and skilful pilots. Ships in storms often get within the dangerous 
nps which lie off the island, and there appears to be no retreat. 
These men are constantly on the watch for them. The sea rolls 
like moving mountains on the shore, and the surf breaks in a ter- 
rible manner. As the waves retire, five or six of them lift a whale- 
boat till they reach the surf, and then jump into it with almost in- 
credible alacrity. The boat frequently fills with water, and they 
are obliged to return to the land to bail the water out, and to carry 
the boat down again. When at last they are so fortunate as to 
float on the surge, to a person standing on the shore, they seem to 
mount up to the sky, and then suddenly sink into the deep. With 
hard rowing they reach the ship, which oftentimes is at the dis- 
tance of 7 or 8 miles. They come the messengers of safety, for 
with perfect ease they carry the ship into the harbor of Edgar- 
town, where it is secure against every wind. 

At the time of the settlement, the Indians were very numerous in this town, perhaps 
more so than in other paits of the -island. The Indians of Martha's Vineyard were 
hospitable, and more tractable than those on the main. Governor Mayhew and his 
son, as soon as they became settled, attempted to civilize them and introduce the gospel 
among them, and their success surprised and delighted the pious of that age. The 
younger Mr. Mayhew labored in this benevolent work with diligence and fervor till 
his death, in 1657, when it w.is assumed by his father, and in a few years by his son, 
and it was carried on by some member of the family till the beginning of the present 
^«ntury. Nearly all the Indians on the islaiKi became professed Christians. At first 
they were called catechumens, but were formed into a church in 1659, and from this, 
another church arose in 1670. 

The English found most essential advantages from the ascendency which was gained 
over their minds ; they were disarmed of their rage, they were made friends and 
fellow-subjects. In King Philip's war, all the Indian nations on the main were con- 
federated against, the English. Alarm and terror were dilfused on every side, but Gov. 
Mayhew was So well satisfied with the fidelity of these Indians that he employed them 
as a guard, furnished them with the necessary ammunition, and gave them instructions 
how to conduct themselves for the common safety in this time of imminent danger. 
So faithful were they that they not only rejected the strong and repeated solicitations 
of the natives on the main to engage in hostilities, but when any landed from it, in 
obedience to their orders which had been given them, they carried them, though some- 
times their near relations, to the governor, to attend his pleasure. The English, con- 
vinced by these proofs of the sincerity of their friendship, took no care of their own 
defence, but left it entirely to the Indians ; and the storm of war which raged on the 
continent was not suffered to approach, but these islands enjoyed the calm of peace. 
This was the genuine and happy effects of Mr. Mayhew's wisdom and of the introduc- 
♦ton of the Christian religion among the Indians. 



TISBURY, 



Tnrs town comprehends the central part of the island, and is 10 
miles long from north to south, and 5 miles in breadth. It was 
incorporated a township in 1671, at the same time with Edgartown, 
while under the government of New York. As an acknowledg- 
jnent, the proprietors were to pay each and every year two barrels 



T I S B U R Y 



155 



of good merchantable codfish, to be dehvered ai Fort James, in 
New York. Before its incorporation it was known by the name of 
Middletown. 

The precise time when the Congregational church was organ- 
ized is not known. John Mayhew began to preach at Tisbury in 
1673, but was not ordained. Josiah Torrey was ordained in 1701 ; 
Nathaniel Hancock in 1727^ George Damon in 1760, and was dis- 
missed about 1779. Asa Morse was installed in 1784, and dis- 
missed at his request in 1799. He was succeeded in 1801 by 
Nymphas Hatch. 

There are two churches, 1 Congregationalist and 1 Methodist, 
situated in West Tisbury, 8 miles and a half from the court-house 




Northern view at Holmes^ Hole, East Tisbury. 

in Edgartown, and 85 S. S. E. of Boston. At Holmes' Hole, on 
the north side of the island, is a village, consisting of about 100 
dwelling-houses. There are a Methodist and a Baptist church ; 
the last-mentioned was built in 1837. A few houses on the east 
chop of the harbor fall within the limits of Edgartown. Holmes' 
Hole is a good harbor. The depth of water is from 8 fathoms to 
3 ; the bottom good holding ground, bluish clay. Several excel- 
lent pilots reside near the harbor. Wickataquay Pond communi- 
cates with Holmes' Hole by an opening which is only 4 rods wide 
and 7 feet deep at high water. It is supposed formerly to have 
been wider and deeper, and to have been a part of the harbor. 
The pond is 3 miles in length and 1 mile in width, and in several 
places 40 feet in depth. It is situated on the Edgartown side of 
the harbor. Newtown Pond, in the south part of Tisbury, is a 
mile and a half long, and has a natural communication with the 
sea, through which the tide rises and falls. The largest brooks in 
the island empty into the head of this pond, not more than 100 
rods apart, one running from the west and one from the north- 
west. A small brook in this town discharges itself into Lam- 



156 



ESSEX COUNTY 



belt's Cove. The wells in this town, and in other parts of the 
island, are not deep, the water in them being on a level with the 
sea. The common depth is from 15 to 20 feet. The water in 
them is soft and of a good quality, and will wash as well as rain 
water. The sandy beaches in every part of the island abound 
with fresh water, which can be obtained by digging a few feet. 
The surface of this town is mostly level plains. Around Holmes' 
Hole, however, are hills of moderate elevation, and a range of 
highland runs on the north side of the town parallel with the 
sound. Most of the improved land in this township is good and 
productive. 



ESSEX COUNTY. 

Essex county, the north-eastern section of Massachusetts, was 
incorporated as a county in 1643. It is thirty-eight miles long, 
and twenty-five miles wide ; and is more densely populated than 
any other county of its size in the United States. It has an exten- 
sive sea-coast, the line of which is very uneven, being indented 
with numerous bays, inlets, and harbors. Much of the shore is 
rough and rocky, but it has here and there a sandy beach. There 
are also great tracts of salt marsh, which produce large quantities 
of grass. There are many hills in the county, but no mountains. 
The soil in many places is hard to cultivate, but is made produc- 
tive by the industry of the farmers. The principal river in the 
county is the Merrimac, which rises in New Hampshire; it passes 
through the northern section, three miles south of the New Hamp- 
shire line, and, owing to falls and rapids, is navigable only to 
Haverhill, about eighteen miles from its mouth. There is in this 
county a large amount of wealth, and its commerce and fisheries 
are very extensive. The manufacture of shoes, cloth, and other 
articles, is carried on to a considerable extent. Courts for the 
county are held at Salem, Newburyport, and Ipswich. The fol- 
lowing is a list of the towns, which are 27 in number. 



Amesbury, 

Andover, 

Beverly, 

Boxford, 

Bradford, 

Danvers, 

Essex, 



Georgetown, 

Gloucester, 

Hamilton, 

Haverhill, 

Ipswich, 

Lynn, 

Lynn field, 



Manchester, 

Marblehead, 

Methuen, 

Middleton, 

Newbury, 

Newburyport, 

Rowley, 



Salem, 

Salisbury, 

Saugus, 

Topsfield, 

Wenham, 

West Newbury. 



In 1800 the population of 
was 71,888; in 1820 it was 
in 1837 it was 93,689. 



the county was 61,196 ; in 1810 it 
74,655; in 1830 it was 82,887; and 



AMESBURY. 167 



AMESBURY. 

Amesbury was formerly a parish in the town of Sahsbiiry, under 
the name of Salisbury New-Town. It took its name from a town 
in Wihshire, England, and in the first records of the town it is writ- 
ten Almsbury. The town was incorporated in 1668. It is six 
miles in length and tiiree in breadth, and is divided into three sec- 
tions : West Parish, or Jamaica, the Ferry ^ and Mills. The Ferry 
lies at the south-east extremity of the town, at the junction of 
PoiDow river with the Merrimac. Its name is derived from the 
ancient ferry which was established between this part of the town 
and Newbury. The river alters its course at this point from a 
north-east to a south-west direction. This was formerly the seat 
of considerable trade, and many large ships were owned in the place. 
8hip-biiilding was also carried on extensively on the banks of the 
river, and some are still yearly launched. Shad and salmon were 
taken at this place ; some are still caught, but they are becoming 
scarce. The Mills are situated at the north-eastern border of the 
town, around the lower falls of the Powow, forming a continuous 
settlement with the north-western village of Salisbury, on the oppo- 
site side of the Powow. The width of the river is about 2 rods, 
and is crossed by a number of bridges. There are 5 dams at the 
Mills within a space of 50 rods ; the aggregate fall of water is 
70 feet. The stream is rapid, especially in freshet times, when its 
descent over the falls presents a beautiful scene. The stream is 
seldom exhausted; when so, Kimball's Pond has been dammed 
up, and converted into a reservoir. The canal which forms a 
communication between the pond and river is nearly an eighth of 
a mile in length. It has been made more than a century. A part 
of it forms a tunnel under a high hill, which is considered quite a 
curiosity. Water power in this place was applied to machinery at 
an early date. As far back as half a century there was a smelting- 
furnace, and much business carried on in the making of various 
kinds of tools and agricultural implements. Jacob Parkins' machine 
for cutting and heading nails, which was invented about 1796, was 
first used in this village. The town is hilly, and much of the 
natural scenery is of a picturesque character. Whittier, Bear, 
and the Pond hills, are the most elevated, and the prospect from 
them is very extensive and romantic. The soil of the town is of 
an average quality of the other soil in the county. The Amesbury 
Flannel Manufacturing Company., which was incorporated in 
1822, with a capital of ^200,000, have two large factories in ope- 
ration, one of which is for the manufactory of flannels, the other 
for satinets. The flannel mills have made annually 15,000 pieces 
of flannels, 46 yards each ; the satinet mill, 5,000 pieces of sati- 
net, 25 yards each. 

The following is a south-eastern view of what is called the Mills 
Village, lying in the towns of Salisbury and Amesbury. For many 
purposes, the people on both sides of the Powow (the dividing line) 



W9 



A I\I E S B U R Y . 



act together as one town. The village, in hoth towns, is supposed 
to contain about 2,500 inhabitants. There are five churches : 2 
Baptist, 1 Congregational, 1 for Friends, and 1 Episcopal. This 
place is 5 miles from Newburyport, 12 from Haverhill, 20 from 
Portsmouth; and 40 from Boston. Population of the town, 2,567. 




South-east view of Mills Village, in Salisbury and Amesbury. 

One of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, Josiah 
Bartlett^ was a native of this town, and many of his kindred still 
live in the place. He studied medicine in his native place, and 
removed to New Hampshire, of which state he held the office of 
governor for a number of years. He died in 1795. 

The first church organized was located at the Ferry. The first 
pastor, settled in 1672, was Thomas Wells, who died 1734, aged 
87. The second pastor was the Rev. Edmund March, of New- 
bury, who was settled here in 1728. He was succeeded by Rev. 
Elisha Odin, of Exeter, N. H., who was settled in 1744, and died 
in 1752. His successor was Thomas Hibbert, of Rowley, who 
was settled in 1754, and died in 1793. The fifth pastor was Ben- 
jamin Bell, settled in 1784, and resigned in 1790; was succeeded 
by Stephen Hull in 1799, who resigned in 1811. The second Con- 
gregational church, located in the west parish, was organized in 
1726. The Congregational society of Amesbury and Salisbury 
was organized in 1831. The Friends have a meeting-house at the 
Mills village. In Mr. Newhall's Essex Memorial, it is stated, 
" Most of the people of Amesbury belong to the productive class; 
very few are raised above the necessity for personal exertion. 
All are active and industrious, readily find employment, and com- 
mand good wages. They have been distinguished for their zeal 
in the cause of temperance. There has not been, for several years, 
and is not now, a single licensed grocer in town." According to 
the Statistical Tables published by the state in 1837, there were in 
the limits of this town 3 woollen mills, having 27 sets of machi- 



ANDOVER. 159 

liery; 1,100,000 yards of flannel were manufactured, and 150,000 
yards of satinet ; value of woollen goods, $425,000 ; males em- 
ployed, 118; females, 125; capital invested, $250,000. In the 
manufacture of chaises, &c., 128 hands were employed, and in the 
manufacture of shoes and boots, 84 persons. 



ANDOVER. 



The exact time of the first settlement of CochicheiDick, now Ando- 
ver, or when the town was first purchased of the Indians, does not 
distinctly appear. The land was bought of Cutshamache] the 
sagamore of Massachusetts, by Mr. Woodbridge, in behalf of the 
inhabitants of Cochichewick. The amount paid was £6 and a 
coat. Mr. Edmund Faulkner might have assisted Mr. Wood- 
bridge, as there is a tradition that he purchased the town for the 
settlers. In 1646, the court confirmed this purchase and grant, 
and the town was incorporated by the name of Andover, from the 
fact that some of the planters came from Andover, in Hampshire, 
England. The settlers bought the land of the town, and they 
were received as commoners or proprietors ; and, according to a 
vote of the town, all householders were considered as proprietors 
and voters. The first divisions were small lots, few exceeding ten 
acres. The farms were rendered inconvenient, from the fact that 
plough land was granted at a distance, in small parcels, on the 
plains; the same also with swamps and meadow-land, wood- 
land, &c. Much of this inconvenience is felt to this day. There 
is much obscurity about certain transactions, in consequence of 
the early records having been destroyed by the Indians. The land 
was first settled near Cochichewick brook, and upon the Shawshin. 
Various parts of the town were soon occupied by settlers. The 
chief settlement was for many years in the neighborhood of the 
meeting-house and Cochichewick brook, and was called the town. 

Most of the first settlers were from England ; the names of the 
following were taken from the town records. They were written 
in an ancient hand, without date, but probably most of the first 
settlers were living when they were written. " The names of all 
the householders in order as they came to town : Mr. Bradstreet, 
John Osgood, Joseph Parker, Richard Barker, John Stevens, 
Nicholas Holt, Benjamin Woodbridge, John Frye, Edmund Faulk- 
ner, Robert Barnard, Daniel Poor, Nathan Parker, Henry Jaques, 
John Aslett, Richard Blake, William Ballard, John Lovejoy, Tho- 
mas Poor, George Abbot, John Russ, Andrew Allen, Andrew Fos- 
ter, Thomas Chandler." Part of these brought families with them. 
The rest were young unmarried men. It is probable that all of 
these and others were in Andover before 1644. Many followed 
them in the course of a few years. 

The first violence done by the Indians took place April, 19, 1676. 
They were first discovered by Mr. Ephraim Stevens, not far from 

22 



160 ANDOVER. 

Bodwell's Ferry. He escaped upon his horse and gave the alarm. 
The Indians pursued their way along the main road, v/ithout doing 
any miscliief, till they arrived at the south part of the town; there 
they killed Joseph Abbot, and took Timothy Abbot, both sons of 
George Abbot, sen. Joseph was strong and bold, and the tradition 
is that he killed one or more of them before he was slain : he was in 
his 24th year. Timothy was in his 13th year : after being kept seve- 
ral months, he was brought back by a squaw who was friendly to 
the family. At the same time, they burnt Mr. Faulkner's house, 
woimded Roger Marks, and killed his horse. They killed some 
cattle, but only had time to cut out their tongues, as tliey were 
fired upon by the people in the garrison. A few months after, a 
party of the enemy surprised and captured Mr. Haggett and two 
of his sons. The 10th of July, 1671, John Parker, James Parker, 
John Phelps, and Daniel Blackhead, were surprised and slain at 
Black Point, in Scarborough. Another war with the Indians com- 
menced in 168S. Andover suffered more in this than in the pre- 
ceding war. In August, 1689, John and Andrew Peters were 
killed by the Indians. The same year, Lieut. John Stevens, Ben- 
jamin Lovejoy, Eleazer Streaton, and Robert Russell, died in the 
war at the eastward. In August, 1696, two others were slain. 

The greatest distress which the Andover people ever suffered from 
the Indians was on the fifth of March, 1698. A company of 30 
or 40 Indians surprised the town, slew 5 persons, burnt 2 houses 
and 2 barns, with the cattle in them, with other damage. The 
names of the persons killed were Simon Wade, Nathaniel Brown, 
Penelope Johnson, Capt. Pascoe Chubb, and Hannah his wife, 
daughter of Edmund Faulkner. Two years before, Chubb had 
been captain at Pemaquid fort, when he treacherously murdered 
two chiefs of the Indians, which had greatly enraged them. His 
death caused them as much joy as the taking of the whole town. 
Col. Dudley Bradstreet and his family they took, and carried them 
about 50 rods from his house ; they then halted and dismissed their 
prisoners, without offering them the least injury. The tradition is, 
that one Waternummon, an Indian who lived at Newbury, having a 
particular regard for Col. Bradstreet, offered to conduct the Indians 
to his house, on condition that they should not kill nor capture any 
of the family. They took Abiel Stevens, a lad, who pretended to be 
lame, and kept behind. The Indians hurried, expecting to be pur- 
sued. He turned back, and made his escape, though fired upon 
by the Indian who took him. In consequence of the snow being 
deep, the inhabitants having no snow-shoes, the Indians were not 
pursued. Assacumbuit, their principal chief, had distinguished 
himself in this war by his cruelties, which rendered their conduct 
in releasing the captives the more extraordinary. No assault after 
this has been made upon Andover, but the towns near suffered 
much many years afterward. 

Andover is the largest township in Essex county ; it contains 
35,738 acres. The soil is excellent, and it is well cultivated. 
The river Merrimac runs along the north-west side; Cochiche- 



AN DO VER. 



161 



wick Brook issues from Great Pond, in the north-east, and empties 
into the Merrimac. The river Shawshin rises in Lexington, and, 
passing through Billerica, Wihuington, Tewksbury, and Andover, 
empties into the Merrimac. Great Pond^ in the north-east part 
of the town, is a fine place for fish and feathered game. It covers 
about 4.50 acres. Haggetfs Pond is in the west parish, and is a 
place of frequent resort in the summer for parties of pleasure. It 
covers about 220 acres. 




Western view of the Theological Seminary at Andover. 

The south parish, in which the Theological Institution is situated, 
has a considerable village, extending northward of the institution, 
easterly to some extent, and westerly near the factories. The 
houses generally are well built, and present a fine appearance. A 
large portion of them has been erected within thirty years. There 
are in the village a printing-office; the "Andover Bank," incorpo- 
rated in 1826, capital .<J5200,000; the Merrimac Mutual Fire Insu- 
rance Company, incorporated in 1828, and a savings bank, recently 
instituted. There are 5 churches in the village: 1 Congregational, 
1 Episcopal, 1 Baptist, 1 IJniversalist, and 1 Metliodist. This 
place is 10 miles E. of Lowell, 16 from Salem, and 20 from Bos- 
ton. The Andover and Wilmington railroad passes through the 
village. Population of the town, 4,878. In 1837, there were 8 
woollen mills, 26 sets of machinery ; wool consumed, 524,000 lbs. ; 
cloth manufactured, 1,294,000 yards; value of woollen goods, 
$520,000; males employed, 140; females, 192; capital invested, 
$270,000; value of boots and shoes manufactured, ,$?46.500. 
There were two manufactories of machinery, employing 50 hands. 

The above is a western view of the three principal buildings 
of the Theological Institution. They stand on elevated ground, 
having a commanding, variegated, and beautiful prospect. The 
buildings of the institution consist of a dwelling-house for each of 
the professors; Phillips Hall, of brick, 90 feet by 40, four stories, con- 



162 



ANDO VER. 



taining 32 rooms for students, built in 1808 ; Bartlet Chapel, an ele- 
gant brick building, 94 feet by 40, containing a chapel, library, and 
three lecture rooms, built in 1818 ; and Bartlet Hall, an elegant 
brick building, 104 feet by 40, containing 32 suits of rooms, fur- 
nished, presented by Mr. Bartlet in 1821. 

This institution was founded in 1807, and richly endowed by 
the donations of William Bartlet, Esq., and Moses Brown, Esq., 
of Newburyport ; Widow Phoebe Phillips, John Phillips, Esq., and 
Samuel Abbot, Esq., of Andover, and John Norris, Esq., and his 
widow, of Salem. The library of the seminary contains between 
twelve and thirteen thousand volumes. Besides this, there are 
two other libraries : one, of the Porter Rhetorical Society, contain- 
ing from two to three thousand volumes ; the other, belonging to 
the Society of Enquiry respecting Missions, containing from one to 
two thousand volumes. There is an Athenaeum and news-room, 
supported by the students. Annexed to the institution is a com- 
modious mechanic's shop, where the students can exercise them- 
selves in carpentering or cabinet work. There is a musical soAety, 
the president of which is paid by the trustees for his services as 
teacher of sacred music. The term is three years. The principal 
study for the first year is the Bible in its original tongues. The 
second year is occupied in the study of systematic theology. The 
third year is chiefly devoted to the study of ecclesiastical history, 
and the composition of sermons. There is also a Teachers' Semi- 
nary near the Institution, which will accommodate 200 students. 




Westtm vkw uj FhUlips Academy at Andover. 



The above is a western view of Phillips Academy, which is 
situated a few rods south of the Theological Seminary. It is built 
of brick, and is 80 feet in length and 40 in width, and was erected 
in 1819. This academy was founded April 21, 1778, by the Hon. 
Samuel Phillips, Andover, and Hon. John Phillips, Exeter, sons of 
the Rev. Samuel Phillips. It was incorporated Oct. 4, 1780, and 
IS one of the first institutions of the kind in the country. Its funds 
are about $50,000. The first object of the institution is declared 



A N D V E R , 163 

to be the promotion of true piety and virtue. The principal studies 
are the Enghsh, Latin, and Greek languages, together with 
writing, arithmetic, music, and the art of speaking : also, practi- 
cal geometry, logic, and geography, with such other liberal arts 
and sciences or languages as opportunity and ability may admit, 
or as the trustees shall direct. Other schools, of a high class, exist 
in this town, for the reception of male and female pupils. The 
average number of those attending private schools and academies 
is about five hundred. 

The first church, located in the north parish, was founded Octo- 
ber, 1645. The first pastor Avas Rev. John Woodbridge, who was 
settled when the church was formed. He resigned in 1647, and 
went to England, where he preached until ejected under Charles 
II. He returned and lived at Newbury, where he died, March, 
1695. The second pastor was Rev. Francis Dane, who was set- 
tled 1648. The third, the Rev. Thomas Barnard, was settled 
1682. He was succeeded by Rev. John Barnard, in 1719. The 
fifth was the Rev. William Symmes, who was settled 1758. The 
sixth pastor. Rev. Bailey Loring, was settled here in 1810. The 
second Congregational church is situated in the south parish, and 
was organized 1711. The west parish Congregational church was 
gathered Dec. 5, 1826, and Rev. Samuel C. Jackson settled here in 
1827. The Baptist church, located in south parish, was organ- 
ized 1832. 

During the excitement in 1692, on the subject of witchcraft, the 
people of Andover suffered their share of the alarm and distress 
which it occasioned. More than fifty in this town were complained 
of, for afflicting their neighbors and others. Dudley Bradstreet, 
Esq., having granted thirty or forty warrants for commitments, at 
length refused to grant any more. He and his wife were imme- 
diately accused ; he was said to have killed nine persons by witch- 
craft. He found it necessary for his safety to make his escape. 
Three persons who belonged to Andover were hung for witchcraft, 
viz. Martha Carryer, Samuel Wardell, and Mary Parker. The 
following is from Abbot's History of Andover, published at Ando- 
ver, by Flagg and Gould, in 1829. It is inserted here as a matter 
of curiosity, and also as a document which will serve to illustrate 
the history of the times. 

The Indictment of Martha Carreer. 
Essex 33. Anno Regni Regis el Keginas Wilielm et Marias, nunc Anglise, etc. quarto. 

The Jurors for our sovereign lord and lady the king and queen, present, that Martha 
Carryer, wife of Thomas Carryer, of Andover, in the county of Essex, husbandman, 
the thirty-first day of May, in the fourth year of the reign of our sovereign lord and 
lady, William and Mary, by the grace of God, of England, Scotland, France and Ire- 
land, king and queen, defenders of the faith, &c. And divers other days and times, 
as well before as after, certain detestable arts, called witchcrafts, and sorceries, wick- 
edly and feloniously hath used, practised and exercised, at and within the township of 
Salem, in the county of Essex aforesaid, in, upon, and against one INIary Wolcott, of 
Salem Village, single woman, in the county of Essex aforesaid; by which said wicked 
arts the said Mary Wolcott, the thirty-first day of Mdy, in the fourth year aforesaid, 
and at divers other days and times, as well before as after, was, and is tortured, 
afilicted, pined, consumed, wasted and tormented ; against the peace of our sovereign 



164 A NDO V E R. 

lord and lady, William and Mary, king and queen of England; their crown and dig- 
nity, and against the form of the statute, in that case made and provided. 

Witnesses — Mary Wolcott, Elizabeth Hubbaed, Ann Putnam. 

There was also a second indictment for afflicting Elizabeth Hubbard by witchcrall. 
Witnesses — Elizabeth Huebard, Mart Wolcott, Ann Putnam, Mary Warrin. 
The trial of Martha Carryer, August 2, 1692, as stated by Dr. Cotton Mather. 

Martha Carryer was indicted for the bewitching of certain persons, according to the 
form usual in such cases : Pleading not guilty to her indictment, there were first 
brought in a considerable number of the bewitched persons; who not only made the 
court sensible of an horrid witchcraft committed upon them, but also deposed, that it 
was Martha Carryer, or her shape, that grievously tormented them by biting, pricking, 
pinching and choking them. It was further deposed that while this Carryer was on 
her examination before the magistrates, the poor people w^ere so tortured tliat every 
one expected their death on the very spot ; but that upon the binding of Carryer they 
were eased. Moreover, the looks of Carryer, then laid the afflicted people for dead, 
and her touch, if her eyes were at the same time off them, raised them again. Which 
things were also now seen upon her trial. And it was testified, that upon the mention 
of some having their necks twisted almost round by the shape of this Carryer, she 
replied, Ks no matter, though their necks had been twisted quite off. 

2. Before the trial of this prisoner, several of her own children had frankly and fully 
confessed, not only that they were witches themselves, but that their mother had made 
them so. This confession they made with great shows of repentance, and with much 
demonstration of truth. They related place, time, occasion ; they gave an account of 
journeys, meetings, and mischiefs by them performed; and were very credible in w^hat 
they said. Nevertheless, this evidence was not produced against the prisoner at the 
bar, inasmuch as there was other evidence, enough to proceed upon. 

3. Benjamin Abbot gave in his testimony, that last March was a twelvemonth, this 
Carryer was very angry with him, upon laying out some land near her husband's. 
Her expressions in this anger were, that she would stick as close to Abbot, as the bark 
stuck to the tree ; and that he should repent of it before seven years came to an end, 
so as Dr. Prescot should never cure him. These w^ords were heard by others besides 
Abbot himself, who also heard her say, she would hold his nose as close to the grind- 
stone as ever it was held since his name was Abbot. Presently after this he was taken 
with a swelling in his foot, and then with a pain in his side, and exceedingly tor- 
mented. It bred a sore, which was lanced by Dr. Prescot, and several gallons of cor- 
ruption ran out of it. For six weeks it continued very bad; and then another sore 
bred in his groin, which was also lanced by Dr. Prescot. Another sore bred in his 
groin, which was likewise cut, and put him to very great misery. He was brought to 
death's door, and so remained until Carryer was taken, and carried away by the con- 
stable. From which very day he began to mend, and so grew better every day, and 
is well ever since. 

Sarah Abbot, his wife, also testified that her husband was not only all this while 
afflicted in his body ; but also that strange, extraordinary and unaccountable calami- 
ties befel his cattle; their death being such as they could guess no natural reason for. 

4. AUin Toothaker testified that Richard, the son of Martha Carryer, having some 
diflference with him, pulled him down by the hair of the head; when he rose again, he 
was going to strike at Richard Carryer, but fell down flat on his back to the ground, 
and had not power to stir hand or foot, until he told Carryer he yielded; and then he 
saw the shape of Martha Carryer gooff his breast. 

This Toothaker had received a wound in the wars, and he now testified, that Martha 
Carryer told him, he should never be cured. Just before the apprehending of Carryer, 
he could thrust a knitting needle into his wound four inches deep, but presently after 
her being seized, he was thoroughly healed. 

He further testified that when Carryer and he sometimes were at variance, she would 
clap her hands at him, and s^y, he should get nothing brj it. Whereupon he several 
times lost his cattle by strange deaths, whereof no natural causes could be given. 

5. John Roger also testified that upon the threatening words of this malicious Carryer 
his cattle would be strangely bewitched; as was more particularly then described. 

6. Samuel Preston testified that about two years ago, having some difference with 
Martha Carryer, he lost a cow in a strange, preternatural, unusual manner; and about 
a month after this, the said Carryer, having again some diflerence with him, she told 
him he had lately lost a cow, and it should not be long before he lost another! which 
accordingly came to pass ; for he had a thriving and well-kept cow, which, without 
any known cause, quickly fell down and died. 

7. Phebe Chandler testified that about a fortnight before the apprehension of Martha 



BEVERLY. 165 

Carryer, on a Lord's day, while the psalm was singing in the church, this Carryer then 
took her by the shoulder, and, shaking her, asked her where she hved. She made her 
no answer, although as Carryer, who lived next door to her father's house, could not 
in reason but know who she was. Quickly after this, as she was at several times 
crossing the fields, she heard a voice that she took to be Martha Carryer's, and it 
seemed as if it were over her head. The voice told her, she should within two or three 
days be poisoned. Accordingly, within such a little time, one half of her right hand 
became greatly swollen and very painful ; as also part of her face ; whereof she can 
give no account how it came. It continued very bad for some days ; and several times 
since she has had a great pain in her breast ; and been so seized on her legs that she 
has hardly been able to go. She added, that lately going well to the house of God, 
Richard, the son of Martha Carryer, looked very earnestly upon her, and immediately 
her hand which had formerly been poisoned, as is above said, began to pain her 
greatly, and she had a strange burning at her stomach ; but was then struck deaf, so 
that she could not hear any of the prayer, or singing, till the two or three last words 
of the psalm. 

8. One Foster, who confessed her own share in the witchcraft, for which the prisoner 
stood indicted, affirmed, that she had seen the prisoner at some of their witch-meetings, 
and that it was this Carryer, who persuaded her to be a witch. She confessed that the 
devil carried them on a pole to a witch-meeting, but the pole broke, and she hanging 
about Carryer's neck, they both fell down, and she then received an hurt by the fall, 
whereof she was not at this very time recovered. 

9. One Lacy, who likewise confessed her share in this witchcraft, now testified that 
she and the prisoner were once bodily present, at a witch-meeting in Salem Village, 
and that she knew the prisoner to be a witch, and to have been at a diabolical sacra- 
ment, and that the prisoner was the undoing of her and her children, by enticing them 
into the snare of the devil. 

10. Another Lacy, who also confessed her share in this witchcraft, now testified that 
the prisoner was at the witch-meeting in Salem Village, where they had bread and wine 
administered to them. 

11. In the time of this prisoner's trial, one Susanna Shelden, in open court, had her 
hands unaccountably tied together with a wheel-band, so fast, that without cutting, it 
could not be loosened. It was done by a spectre; and the sufierer affirmed it was the 
prisoner's. 



BEVERLY 



Beverly was formerly a part of Salem, and was first settled 
about the year 1630, by the removal of John and William Wood- 
bury, with others of the companions of Roger Conant, from the 
south to the north side of Bass river. John Balch and Conant, 
with others, soon came after. In 1649 the settlers became numer- 
ous enough to desire of the church of Salem that '' some course be 
taken for the means of grace amongst themselves, because of the 
tediousness and difficulties over the water, and other inconve- 
niences." A meeting-house was built in 1656, and a branch of the 
church of Salem established. The town was incorporated by the 
name of Beverly on the 14th Oct., J 668. The act of incorpora- 
tion ran thus: " The court, on perusal of this return, (on notice to 
Salem,) judge it meet to grant that Bass River be henceforth a 
township of themselves, referring it to Salem to accommodate them 
with lands and bounds suitable for them, and that it be called 
Beverly." The first town meeting was held on the 23d of 
November, 1668. Conant was not satisfied with the name given 
by the court; in 1671 he petitioned to have it changed to Budleigh, 
the name of the town in England from which he came. The fol- 



166 BEVERLY. 

lowing, from NewhaWs Essex Memorial,^ 1836, is an extract from 

the petition : — 

" Now my umble suit and request is unto this honorable Court onlie that the name 
of our town or plantation may be altered or changed from Beverly, and be called Bud- 
leigh. I have two reasons that have moved me unto this request: the first is, the 
great dislike and discontent of many of our people for this name of Beverly, because 
(wee being but a small place) it hath caused on us the constant nick-name of beggarly, 
being in the mouths of many, and no order was given, or consent by the people, to 
their agent, for any name untill they were shure of being a towne granted in the first 
place. Secondly, I being the first that had house in Salem, (and neither had any hand 
in nameing either that or any other towne,) and myself, with those that were with me, 
being all from the western part of England, desire this western name of Budleigh, a 
market towne in Devonshire, and neere unto the sea, as wee are heere in this place, and 
where myself was borne. Now, in regard of our firstnesse and antiquity in this soe 
famous a collony, we should umblie request this small prevaledg, with your favour and 
consent, to give this name abovesaid unto our towne. I never yet made sute or request 
unto the Generall Coun for the least matter, tho I think I might as well have done, as 
many others have, who have obtained much without hazard of life, or preferring the 
public good before their own interest, which I praise God I have done. If this my 
sute may find acceptation with your worships, I shall rest umbly thankful], and my 
praiers shall not cease unto the throne of grace for God's guidance and his blessing 
to be on all your waightie proceedings, and that iustice and righteousness may be eve- 
rie where administered, and sound doctrine, truth, and holiness everie where taught 
and practised throughout this wilderness to all posterity, which God grant. Amen." 
This petition was signed by thirty-three or four other names But it appears that the 
petition was not granted. 

Beverly is 11 miles from Ipswich, 17 north-east of Boston, and 
14 south-west of Gloucester. Its greatest length is six and two 
thirds and width three and a half miles. It is divided into two 
territoral parishes ; the westerly called the Precinct of Salem and 
Beverly, and the easterly called the First Parish. "This last 
contains two thirds of the territory, and five sixths of the popula- 
tion." Part of Wenliam Pond lies within the limits of this town. 
There are several conspicuous hills in the town; that called 
Brown's Folly is the highest. From the hill the observer has a 
view of a large portion of the bay, the towns of Salem, Danvers, 
and Marblehead, with the surrounding country. 

There is raised in this town about 1,550 tons of hay, 14,000 bush- 
els of grain, and 1,100 head of cattle are pastured. The orchards 
yield an abundant supply of apples. Considerable quantities of 
butter and cheese are made, but of the last, not enough for home 
consumption. There are about 12,000 bushels of Indian corn pro- 
duced annually. The whole quantity of grain raised is about 
equal to half of the consumption of bread stuffs ; of other vega- 
table food the quantity produced exceeds the consumption. The 
great extent of sea-coast furnishes an abundant supply of sea 
manure for improving the soil. The amount of capital employed 
in the cod fishery is greater than that of any other business. There 
are fifty vessels, making an aggregate of 3,500 tons ; valued, includ- 
ing the stores and outfits, at $100,000 ; manned by 400 men and 
boys. The income of this fishery may be estimated at $150,000. 

* The author would here mention that he is deeply indebted to this valuable aiid 
interesting work for much historical information respecting the various towns in 
Essex county. The work is entitled " The Essex Memorial for 1836, embracing a Segis 
ter for the County, by James R. Nervhall.-' 



BEVERLY 



167 



There iro en>ployed in the manufacture of shoes about 300 males 
and 200 females. The vakie of boots and shoes manufactured in 
1837 was $60,000. Population of the town, 4,609. 




South -ivest view of Beverly. 

The above is a view of the southern part of Beverly village, as 
it is seen from near the bridge connecting it with Salem. The act 
for incorporating the proprietors of this bridge passed in 1787. It 
is 1,484 feet long and 34 wide. It is built on 93 wooden piers of 
oak timber, driven into tlie mud. It has a draw for vessels. The 
first pier was driven in May, 1788. The proprietors are authorized 
to receive toll seventy years from this date, after which the bridge 
reverts to the commonwealth. This is a large village, mostly built 
on a single street. There are 4 churches, 3 Congregational, 1 of 
which is Unitarian, and 1 Baptist. There is an academy, and a 
bank, " The Beverly Bank." There are two Congregational 
churches in the upper parish, and a Baptist at the Farms. The 
lamented Capt. Lathrop, and a number of his men, who fell in an 
ambuscade of the Indians at Bloody Brook, at Deerfield, were from 
this place. 

The first church was organized in 1667, and the Rev. John Hale, 
the first pastor, was ordahied at the formation of the church. The 
duties of the sexton of the church, about this period, as they appear 
on the town book, were -'to ring the bell at nine o'clock every 
night a sufficient space of time as is usual in other places," and 
" keep and turn the glass." An hourglass was kept near the pulpit, 
in view of the minister. He was expected to close his sermon in 
the course of an hour, and if he went over or fell short of the time 
it was a suflicient cause for complaint. Mr. Hale died in 1700. 
His successor was the Rev. Thomas Blowers, who was ordained 
in 1701, and died 1729. Rev. Joseph Champney succeeded Mr. 
Blowers, was ordained 1729, and died in 1773. His successor 
was Rev. Joseph VVillard, who was ordained 1772, and dismissed 
in 1781, he having been elected president of Harvard University. 



168 B O X P O R D . 

He was succeeded by the Rev. Joseph McKeen, who was ordained 
in 1785, and dismissed by mutual consent in 1802. In 1803 Rev, 
Abiel Abbot was installed, and died 1828. The second Congre- 
gational church was organized, and the first minister, the Rev. 
John Chipman, ordained, in 1715. The first Baptist church was 
organized in 1801. The third Congregational church was organ- 
ized in 1802. The society was incorporated in 1803. The second 
Baptist was of the Cliristkm denomination, and Avas formed in 
1828. The Rev. Benjamin Knight was ordained in 1829. He 
has been dismissed, and the church have changed to the Calvinistic 
Baptist. 



B O X F O R D. 



BoxFORD was taken from Rowley in 1685, and incorporated as a 
separate town. For the last thirty years, the population has re- 
mained nearly stationary : in 1800 it was 852, in 1830 957, and in 
1837 it was 964, The fertility of the soil is not very great ; but 
the inhabitants by their industry have overcome many natural 
deficiencies. The main business of the inhabitants is agriculture. 
There is a cotton factory in the place, which does some business 
in the preparation of batting. Shoemaking is also carried on to a 
considerable extent. The value of shoes manufactured in 1837 
was $52,975, This place is 10 miles from Ipswich, 13 from 
Newburyport, and 24 from Boston. It contains 2 postoffices, one 
in the east, the other in the west parish. 

At the commencement of the Revolution, the inhabitants dis- 
played much ardor in the cause of freedom. At the battle of Bunker 
Hill, eight persons from the town were killed. The Hon. Aaron 
Wood, a native resident of this town, at his death, which took place 
in 1791, left a legacy of 2,061 dollars for the support of Latin and 
Greek grammar-schools. 

The town enjoys some useful water privileges, derived from seve- 
ral ponds, which form the head waters of Rowley and Parker 
rivers, and the source of a branch of Ipswich river. In 1680 the 
manufacture of iron was commenced here, but the business was 
soon discontinued. 

The first Congregational church was organized in 1702. The 
Rev. Thomas Symmes was the first pastor ; he was settled in 1702, 
and resigned 1708. The Rev. John Rogers was second pastor; he 
was settled in 1709, and left about 1743, and resided with his son at 
Leominster till his death, which took place 1775. His successor 
was the Rev. Elizur Holyoke, who was settled in 1759, preached 
until 1793, and died 1806. He was succeeded by the Rev. Isaac 
Briggs, who was installed in 1808, resigned Dec. 3, 1833. The 
second Congregational church was organized in 1736. The Rev. 
John Cushing was the first pastor. He was settled in 1736, and 
died 1772. His successor was Rev, Moses Hale, who was settled 
in 1774, and died 1786. The next pastor was Dr. Eaton, settled 
Uere in 1789. 



BRADFORD, 169 

BRADFORD. 

This town was taken from Rowley. Its first name was called 
Merrimac. After that it was known by the name of Rowley Vil- 
lage. In 1673 it was incorporated by its present name. The 
lands of this town were granted by the general court to Rev. Ezekiel 
Rogers, first minister of Rowley, and others. In 1658, a commit- 
tee of Rowley laid out tracts of land for the Rev. Samuel Phillips, 
•John and Robert Haseltine, widow Mighill, widow Hobson, 
Thomas Kimball. .Joseph .Tewett, Joseph Chaplin, John Simmons, 
Abraham Foster, Jonathan Hopkinson, John Eastman, James 
Dickinson, and Maximilian Jcwett, had lands granted them. 
These divided the lands in various proportions in 1671, and were 
most of them the first settlers of the town. Bradford is very plea- 
santly located on the south bank of the Merrimac. The length 
of the town is about six miles, and from one to two and a half 
miles in breadth. It contains about 10,000 acres of land. The 
surface is uneven and the soil varied. Much of it is of the first 
quality, especially the upland, which is verdant amidst the droughts 
of summer. Many of the hills are considerably elevated, from 
which are fine views of rural scenery. There are extensive forests 
of oak, walnut, pine and maple, with beds of peat, that afford a 
supply of fuel for the inhabitants. The ponds in the town are well 
stocked with pickerel and perch. Salmon in small quantities are 
yet taken. Shad and alewives are taken in great abundance from 
the river. A handsome bridge of three arches connects this town 
with Haverhill. The width of the river is about 800 feet at the 
lower part of the town, but narrower at the upper part. The depth 
of water at low tide is from four to five feet. There are serious 
impediments to navigation, resulting from the short turn in the 
river and the shoals between the chain ferry and Haverhill ; but 
hulls of vessels built at Bradford and Haverhill, of the burthen of 
400 tons, have passed down, while those of 90 or 100 tons have 
come up loaded. The scenery on the banks of the Merrimac, be- 
tween this town and Haverhill, is exceedingly beautiful. Ship- 
building is now almost totally abandoned, as easier labor and more 
profit is derived from the manufacturing of boots and shoes, of 
which it is estimated that about 360,000 pairs are made annually. 
The village in Bradford, on the opposite side the Merrimac from 
Haverhill, contains about 30 dwelling-houses and a church. Brad- 
ford is 30 miles N. of Boston. Population, 2,275. 

Bradford Academy, in the west parish, was established in 1803. 
Its location is on an elevated site, and commands a delightful view 
of the surrounding country, comprising the entire villages of Brad- 
ford and Haverhill. The names of Mrs. Judson and Harriet New- 
ell, who were pupils in this school, will not soon be forgotten by 
the Christian world. This academy is extensively known, and 
has been generally attended by a large number of pupils. Merri- 
mac Academy is located in the east parish, and was established 
in 1821, and is in successful operation. 



170 BRADFORD. 

At the time of the Indian wars the people were much alarmed 
for their safety, and fortified three houses ; but they were not much 
molested by the savages. The following is from a discourse de- 
livered by Gardner B. Perry in 1820. He says : 

" I have found but one record of any violence experienced from them. This is con- 
tained in a note attached to one of the town books, by Shubal Walker, who was the town- 
clerk. He observes in this note that Thomas Kimball was shot by an Indian, the third 
of May, 1676, and his wife and five children, Joannah Thomas, Joseph, Prescilla and 
John, were carried captives. These, however, he observes in another note, re- 
turned home again the 13th of June, the same year. The house in which Mr. Kim- 
ball lived, stood on the road leading to Boxford, the cellar of which may still be seen. 
" It is traditionally reported," continues IMr. Perry, " that the Indians who committed 
this violence set out from their homes near Dracut with the intention of killing some 
one in Rowley who they supposed had injured them, but finding the night too far spent, 
they did not dare to proceed farther, and so revenged themselves on Mr. Kimball. 
There was also a ]Mr. Kehemiah Carlton shot from across the river, at the time of the 
.attack upon Haverhill ; and it is said, further, that one of the workmen employed in 
felling timber on the Haverhill side of the river was also shot. Besides these I have 
heard of no particular injury received from them.' 

The first burial in the east parish burying-place was in 1723, 
Mrs. Martha Hale. The following is taken from the foot-stone : 

" If you will look it will appear 
She was the first buried here." 

The most remarkable occurrence ever witnessed here was a great 
freshet in 1818. The snow had been melted by a violent rain, which 
rushed down the valley of the Merrimac with great fury, tearing 
up the ice, which was nearly two feet thick, with the noise and 
convulsions of an earthquake ; driven into immense dams, it rolled 
and flew about in every possible direction on its way to the ocean. 
The river was raised 21 feet above common high-water mark. 
The country aroimd was inundated, and in many houses the water 
was from two inches to five feet in depth. The ice was driven far 
upon the land, and pyramids of fragments were thrown up above 
the level of the flood. Buildings were removed and destroyed, 
cattle and sheep were drowned, and ruin spread on all sides. 

Mr. Penny says, in his historical discourse, "that the eels go up 
the river the beginning of May in a ribband or stream of about a 
foot wide upon the average, and three or four inches in depth, and 
every year in the same course. They are from two to six inches 
in length, move with considerable velocity, and continue to pass 
along without interruption for about four days. Almost an incon- 
ceivable number must pass during this time." They are said to 
be froiu the ocean, and are said to pass into the ponds and brooks 
connected with the river. 

The first Congregational church, located in the west parish, was 
organized in 1682. The first pastor was Rev. Zachariah Symmes, 
who was settled in 1682, died 1707. He was succeeded by his 
son, the Pvev. Thomas Symmes, in 1708, who died in 1725. The 
Rev. Joseph I'arsons succeeded Mr. Symmes, and was settled in 
1726, and died in 1765. The next was the Rev. Samuel Williams, 
who was settled in 1765, and resigned in 1780. His successor was 



D A N V E R S . 171 

R«v. Jonathan Allen, who was settled in 1781. The sixth pastor 
was the Rev. Ira Ingraham, who settled here in 1824, resigned in 
1830, The seventh pastor was the Rev. Loammi J. Hoadly, who 
was settled in 1830, resigned January, 1833. His successor was 
the Rev. Moses C. Searle, who was settled in 1833, and resigned 
in 1834. 

The second Congregational church, in the east parish, was formed 
in 1728. The Methodist society was established ni 1832. 



DANVERS. 

Danvers was formerly a part of Salem, known by the name of 
Salem, village. It was settled by Gov. Endicott and his associates 
in 1628. The settlement was incorporated as a district in 1752, 
and as a town June 16, 1757. Tradition says it received its name 
from Earl D'Anvers, a nobleman in the north of England, but why 
his name was adopted does not appear.* The population of the 
town in 1837 was 4,804. There are seven houses of public wor- 
ship, viz., 2 Congregational, 2 Universalist, 1 Unitarian, 1 Baptist, 
and 1 Methodist. The principal village in Danvers is large and 
thickly settled ; its principal street joins the main street in Salem, 
forming but one continuous settlement. The Neio Mills village, 
situated at the head of navigation on Porter river, in the north- 
eastern part of the township, was settled in 1754. During the 
revolutionary war, four 20 gun ships, and eight or ten privateers, 
were built here. In 1837, there were manufactured in this town 
14,000 pairs of boots, 615,000 pairs of shoes; the value of boots 
and shoes was $435,900; males employed, 666; females, 411. 
There were 28 tanneries: hides tanned, 66.200; value of the lea- 
ther tanned and curried, ,$264,400; hands employed, 110; capital 
invested, .$203,700. There were 3 manufactories of morocco; skins 
manufactured, 98,000, valued at .$39,400; hands employed, 35; 
capital invested, ,$30,000. Nails, chocolate, bricks and various 
other articles are manufactured here. The center of the princi- 
pal village is about two miles distant from the central part of 
Salem, and about 15 from Boston. There are two banks, the 
Danvers Bank, incorporated in 1825, capital ,$150,000; the War- 
ren Bank, incorporated in 1832, capital $120,000; and an insu- 
rance company, incorporated in 1829. 

The inhabitants of Danvers have always been distinguished for 
their patriotism, and its citizens bore their full share in the great 
contest of the Revolution. Gen. Israel Putnam, so celebrated for 
his courage and his important services in the French, Indian, And 
Revolutionary wars, was a native of Danvers. Col. Hutchinson, 
another commander in the revolutionary army from this town, re- 
ceived the marked approbation of Washington for his services at 
the crossing of the Delaware. He also commanded a company at 

* The author is indebted to Mr. Poole for a number of particulars respecting the his 
lory of this town. 



172 



D A N V E R S 



the siege and capture of Quebec by Gen. Wolfe, and was at Lake 
George, and at tlie defeat of Ticonderoga, with Gen. Abercrombie. 
At the battle of Lexington he commanded a company of minute 
men. Jeremiah Page, another hero from this town, commanded 
a company at Lexington, and afterwards became a colonel in the 
army. Capt. Samnel Page also fought at Lexington, and com- 
manded a company in the revolutionary army. Gen. Gideon Fos- 
ter, another commander at the battle of Lexington, still survives, at 
the age of 90 years. 




Southern vzem of the Collins House, Danvers. 

As early as June 5th, 1774, General Gage, the royal governor, 
came here from Boston with two companies of the king's troops, 
from Castle William, belonging to the 64th regiment, and had his 
head-quarters at the mansion of Hon. R. Hooper, since the pro- 
perty of the late Judge Collins, of which the above cut is a repre- 
sentation. The troops were encamped about the house: but they 
had been there scarcely three months before the rebellious spirit 
of the people became so manifest that a large part of this force was 
kept under arms every night, to prevent a surprise, and on the 
10th of September (Jov. Gage marched back to Boston. 

It was in tlie vicinity of this house that the witchcraft excitement 
of 1692 first manifested itself In Felt's Annals of Salem, it is 
thus noticed: [Feb.] "2.^th. Tituba, an Indian servant of Rev. 
S. Parris, is complained of for witchcraft. Before this, John, her 
husband, another Indian servant of Mr. P., had been persuaded by 
Mary Sibley to make a superstitious experiment for discovering 
persons, who, they supposed, secretly atflicted Mr. P.'s daughter, 
Elizabeth, M. 9, and his niece Abigail Williams, iE. 11, and Ann 
Putnam, a girl of the neighborhood. March 1st. Sarah Osborn, 
Sarah and Dorothy Good, Tituba, servant of Mr. Parris, Martha 
Cory, Rebecca Nurse, Sarah Cloyce, John Proctor and his wife 
Elizabeth, all of Salem village, are committed to Boston jail, on 
charge of witchcraft. 11th. Mr. Parris and other ministers observe 
a Fast at Salem village because witchcraft had appeared there. — 



D A N V E R S . 173 

Mary Sibley, having confessed that she innocently councilled John, 
the Indian, to attempt a discovery of witches, is permitted to com- 
mune with Mr. P.'s church. She had been previously disciplined 
for such council and appeared well." 

The following statement is from the records of the first church, 
where it appears in Mr. Parris' own hand-writing. 

" 27th March, Sab. 1692. Sacrament Pay. 
"After the common auditory were dismissed, and before the church communion of 
the Lord's table, the following Testimony against the Error of our sister Mary Sibley 
who had given direction to my Indian man in an unwarrnntable way to find out 
witches, was read by the Pastor. It is altogether nndenyable that our great and 
blessed God hath suffered many persons, in several Families of this little village, to 
be grievously vexed and tortured in body, and to be deeply tempted, to the endanger- 
ing of the destruction of their souls, and all these amazing facts (well known to many 
of us) to be done by Witchcraft and Diabolical Operations. It is also well known 
that when these calamities first began, which was in my own family, the affliction 
was several weeks before such hellish operations as Witchcraft was suspected. Nay 
it never brake forth to any considerable light until diabolical means was used by the 
making of a cake by my Indian man, who had his directions, from this our sister 
Mary Sibley, since which apparitions have been plenty, and exceeding much mischief 
hath followed. But by this means it seems the Pevil hath been raized amongst us, 
and his rage is vehement and terrible, and when he shall be silenced the Lord only 
knows." 

The First Con gregatlonal church was located in the north 
parish, and organized 1671. Rev. James Bailey was the first 
pastor; he was settled in 1671, and resigned 1680. His successor 
was the Rev. George Burroughs, who was settled 1680, and re- 
signed 1683, and on the 19th August, 1692. was executed for 
witchcraft on "Gallows Hill," Salem. He was succeeded by 
the Rev. Deodab Lawson in 1683, who resigned in 1688. The 
next in order was Rev. Samuel Parr is, who was settled in 1689, 
and resigned in 1696. It was in Mr. Parris' family that witch- 
craft excitement first made its appearance. His successor was 
the Rev. Joseph Green, who was settled in 1698, and died 171.5. 
The Rev. Peter Clark succeeded him in 1717, and died in 1768. 
His successor. Rev. Benjamin Wadsworth, was settled 1772, and 
died 1826. 

The Second Co?igreq-at/onal chnrch^ located in the south parishy^ 
was organized in 1713. The Baptist society was organized 1793, 
located at New Mills. The Unitarinn ^ocA&Xy was incorporated in 
1825. The Rev. Mr. Sewall was settled in 1827. This church is 
located at south parish. The First Universalist cliurch. located 
at New Mills, organized in 1829. Pastor, Rev. William Henry 
Knapp, installed 1834. {Second Universalist^ located in south 
parish. The Methodist society was recently organized. 

The public acts of the inhabitants of Danvers in those fearful 
times immediately preceding the open rupture with the mother 
country, as shown by their town records, display an ardor and de- 
termination in view of the great struggle before them, unsurpassed 
in any other part of the country. These acts were followed by 
prompt personal effori and the sacrifice of the best blood of her 
sons. Of those who fell at the battle of Lexington one sixth part 



174 



D A N V E Pv S 



were inhabitants of this town. A monument to their memory was 
laid in 1835, on the 60th anniversary of the battle, by Gen. Gideon 
Foster, one of the survivors, and captain of a company of minute 
men from this town, which fought on that day. Gen. Foster then 
addressed the muhitude assembled to Avitness the ceremony, among 
whicli were nineteen survivors of the revohitionary army ; after 
which religious services were performed, and an address delivered 
by Danl. P. King, Esq., in that ancient church where sixty years 
before religious services were liad over the remains of the slain. 

" The occasion will long be remembered, — as calculated to 
deepen our feelings of veneration for the events commemorated — 
for the exercise of generous feelings in the discharge of an honor 
due to the glorious dea.d, — and the ceremonies of the day will re- 
mind us of our obligations to those who spilled their blood in the 
first olfering at the shrine of liberty." 




Monument and Btll Tavern, Banvers. 



The above is a view of the monument, which is built of hewn 
sienite, is 22 feet in height and 7 feet broad at the base. It was 
completed in 1837, at an expense somewhat exceeding $1,000. 
The following inscriptions, carved in Italian marble, appear on two 
sides of the monument. 

[On the east.] 
Battle of Lexington, April 19th, 1775. Samuel Cook, aged 33 years ; Benj. Daland. 
25 ; George Southwick, 25 ; Jotham Webb, 22 ; Henry Jacobs, 22 ; Ebenr. Gold- 
thwait, 22 ; Perley Putnam, 21 ; Citizens of Danvers, fell on that day. 
Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori. 

[On the reverse.] 
Erected by Citizens of Danvers on the 60th Anniversary, 1835. 

In the back-ground is a view of an ancient building which was 
formerly much celebrated as the Old Bell Tavern, for many years 
kept by a Mr. Francis Symonds, who, besides being the landlord, 
claimed the honor of being the poet laureate of the village. A 



ESSEX. 175 

wooden representation of a bell hung from his sign-post, on which 
he caused to be inscribed, 

" I'll toll you in if you have need 
And feed you well and bid you speed." 

To the business of publican he united that of chocolate dealer, 
and on a sign projecting from the post below the bell, was the fol- 
lowing couplet : 

" Francis Symonds makes and sells 
The best of Chocolate, also Shells." 

This house was formerly a place of much resort, it being on the 
great thoroughfare from the east and north to Boston. It was 
here that the Salem regiment, under the late Col. Timo. Pickering, 
halted for refreshment on their march to Bunker Hill on the 17th 
of June, 1775. 

It may not be uninteresting to state that this ancient building 
was once the temporary residence of Elizabeth Whitman, whose 
singular history in fictitious narrative, and under the fictitious 
name of Eliza Wharton, has excited so much interest with read- 
ers of romance. It was here she lived a transient visiter, a mys- 
tery to all, and here, among strangers, she died. She is described 
by those who saw her as a lady of agreeable manners and con- 
versation, of strong mind, intelligent and accomplished. In form 
she was above the common height, and had considerable personal 
beauty. Her fate appears to have excited much sympathy in the 
village, and her remains were followed by a large number of the 
inhabitants to the village burial-ground, where the mutilated head- 
stone of her grave still remains. The foot-stone has long since 
been entirely demolished by the depredations of visiters, who make 
their pilgrimages to the spot and carry away some portion as a 
relic, and, unless some measures are taken to prevent it, the re- 
maining stone will also soon disappear. These monuments to her 
memory are made from a reddish freestone, and were placed at her 
grave by some unknown friends of the deceased. The head-stone 
bears the following inscription, which differs from that recorded 
in the book purporting to be her history, only in the name. 

" This humble stone in memory of Eijzabeth "Whitman, is inscribed by her weep- 
ing friends to whom she endeared herself by uncommon tenderness and affection. 
Endowed with superior genius and acquirements, she was still more endeared by 
humility and benevolence. Let candor throw a veil over her frailties, for great was 
her charity to others. She sustained the last painful scene far from every friend, and 
exhibited an example of calm resignation. Her departure was on the 25th of July, 
A. D. 1788, in the .37th year of her age, and the tears of strangers watered her grave." 



ESSEX. 



Essex was for 121 years a parish of the ancient town of Ipswich, 
and was called Chebacco. It became a separate town in 1819. 
The fishing business was formerly extensively carried on in this 

24 



176 GLOUCESTER. 

town. It is well situated for ship-building. During five years 
preceding 1837, there were 220 vessels built, the tonnage of which 
was 12, .500 tons ; valued at $337,500 ; hands employed in ship- 
building, 120. There were 14 vessels employed in the cod and 
mackerel fishery. The timber for ship-building is rafted from the 
Merrimac into Plum Island Sound, and thence through a canal 
which has been cut across the marshes from Ipswich bay. The 
farms in Essex are good. Much fruit is raised, and many tons of 
hay annually sold in the Boston and Salem markets. Another 
source of profit, to some of the inhabitants, are the clam-banks of 
Essex. Upwards of a thousand barrels of clams are dug here 
annually, and sold (exclusive of barrels and salt) for .$2,50 to $3 
per barrel. There is one fact which is indicative of the attach- 
ment of the people to the place : that of 196 families, of which the 
town consisted in 1820, fifty-two were of the name of Burnham, 
and a large proportion of the residue were of the names of Cogs- 
well and Choate. The village in the central part of the town 
consists of about 50 dwelling-houses and two churches, about 5 
miles from Ipswich, and 25 from Boston. Population of the town, 
1,402. 

A Cofigregatio}7al church, was formed here in 1681. The next 
year the Rev. John Wise was ordained pastor. His successor was 
Rev. Theophilus Pickering, who was settled in 1725. In 1745, 
the second society was formed, and in 1747 the Rev. John Cleave- 
land was ordained pastor. In 1774, the two churches united under 
Mr. Cleaveland. Rev. Josiah Webster succeeded Mr, Cleaveland 
in 1799. His successor was Rev. Thomas Holt, who was installed 
1809. The Rev. Robert Crowell was settled 1814. 

The Christian society was organized in 1808, and their house 
erected 1809. 

A UniversaUst society was formed 1829. 



GEORGETOWN. 



This town was incorporated in 1838, previous to which it was 
the western part of Rowley, and called Neio Rowley. It appears 
that the first Congregational church in this town was organized in 
1731, and the first pastor was James Chandler, a native of Ando- 
ver, who settled here in 1732, and died in 1788. The highest land 
in the county is " Bald Pate.''^ From this elevation an extensive 
and delightful view may be obtained, comprehending a portion of 
the valley of the Merrimac, and the adjacent settlements, toge- 
ther with the beautiful town of Haverhill. 



GLOUCESTER. 



Gloucester is a maritime town, comprising Cape Ann, and 
an inland parish. This promontory was named Cape Ann, by 
Prince Charles, out of respect to his mother. It is joined to the 



GLOUCESTER. 177 

main land by a narrow isthmus of about fifty yards wide, called the 
Cut, over which the road passes into the harbor. The name Cut 
was derived from an early grant, in these words : " Upon the 26th 
of the 5th month, 1643, it is ordered that Mr. Richard Blynman, 
Pastor, is to cut the beach through and to maintaine it, and hath 
given him three ackers of upland, and hee is to have the benefit to 
himself and his forever, giveing the Inhabitantes of the town free 
passage." This afforded an easier and shorter passage to vessels 
bound to or from the eastward. 

In 1624, the Dorchester (Eng.) company commenced a fishing 
and planting station here. Thomas Gardner was appointed over- 
seer of the planting, and John Tilley of the fishing, that year. Ro- 
ger Conant, who had been appointed overseer of both departments, 
removed here the year after, bringing Lyford as minister, with 
others. But this settlement was broken up in 1626, and Conant, 
with most of the company, removed to Salem. A few years after, 
a permanent settlement was formed here by the Rev. Mr. Blynman, 
an ejected minister of Wales, with about fifty others. In 1639, the 
place was incorporated as a fishing plantation. In 1642, Glouces- 
ter was created a town by the general court. It was named after 
Gloucester, England, the native place of some of the first settlers. 

First Parish, or Harbor. — The first church was formed in 1642, and for many years its locatiou was 
in the Town parish. It was the 19th church gathered in Massachusetts Bay. 

In 1738, a new meeting-house was erected by the society at the Harbor. Its pastors have been, Rev. 
Richard Blyman, settled in 1642; Rev. John Emerson, in 1658; Rev. Jolm White, in 1703; Rev. Samuel 
Chandler, in 1751 ; Rev. Eli Forbes, in 1776 ; Rev. Perez Lincoln, in 1805 ; Rev. Levi Hartshorn, in 1815 ; 
Rev. Hosea Hildreth, in 1825; Rev. Luther Hamilton, in 1834; Rev. Josiah K. Waite, in 1836. This 
church is now Unitarian. The Universalist Society was formed in 1774, under the preaching of Rev. 
John Murray, the first teacher of that denomination. In 1792 it was incorporated as the Independent 
Christian Society. Rev. Thomas Jones, first pastor, was settled 1804 ; Rev. Daniel D. Smith as colleague 
pastor in 1838. since dismissed. The Baptist Church was organized in 18.30. Rev. Samuel Adlam settled 
in 1831 ; Rev. William Lamson in 1837; Rev. J. A. B. Stone in 1839. The Methodist Society was or- 
ganized in 1826 ; church built in 1827. The Evangelical Congregational Church was organized in 1829. 
Rev. Charles Porter was settled in 1S3I ; Rev. Christopher M. Nickels in 1835. 

Second, or West Parish. — The Congregational Society was organized in 1716. Pastors : Rev. Samuel 
Thompson was settled in 1716; Rev. Richard Jacques in 1725; Rev. Daniel Fuller in 1770. A large 
majority of the society having become Universalists, the meeting-house and other property of the society 
have since belonged to that denomination. 

The church has been revived by the addition of members to the few persons that remained of the old 
church, and a new meeting-house was built in 1834, and Rev. Isaac Brown was ordained in 1840. Thia 
is called the Trinitarian Congregational Church and Society. 

Third, or Squam Parish. — It was incorporated in 1728. Pastors : Rev. Benjamin Bradstreet was set- 
tled in 1728; Rev. John Wyeth in 1766; Rev. Obadiah Parsons in 1772; Rev. Ezra Leonard in 1804. 
Mr. Leonard was ordained as a Congregational minister, but in 1815 he embraced the Universalist doc- 
trine, and the society is now of that order. The Christian Society was organized in 1810. It has since 
become a Baptist Society. Rev. Epes Davis was settled in 1813. This society is now almost extinct. 
The Congregational Society at Lane's Cove, Sciuam Parish, was formed in 1828. Church organized in 
1830. Pastors : Rev. Moses Sawyer was settled in 1831 ; Rev. David Tilton in 1840. 

Fourth, or Town Parish. — The oldest in the town, being the location of the first settlers, and the 
place of worship and seat of business for about a century. In 1742 the parish was divided, and the 
northern part was incorporated and set off as a separate parish, (the fourth.) Rev. John Rogers was 
ordained in 1744, died in 1782. Since that period there has been no regular ordained minister, and the 
society is now extinct. A Methodist church was set off from the Harbor church in 1838, and a meeting, 
bouse was erected the same year. 

The town of Gloucester comprises two villages. The Harbor^ 



178 



GLOl'CESTBR, 



SO called, is the principal village, and is finely located on the south 
side of the cape. The engraving shows the appearance of the vil- 




South-western view of Gloucester. 

lage as it is approached from the south-west. The settlement is 
compact ; many of the houses are built of brick. The sea views 
from this place are very extensive, and rarely equalled in grandeur 
and sublimity by any on the coast, and the inhabitants truly dwell at 

"the noise of the sounding surge! when the dark rolling wave is near, with its back 
of foam ! " 

The village of Sandy Bay is on the eastern side of the cape, 
about five miles from the Harbor. A pier and breakwater have been 
constructed here for the security of shipping. The village of Sqiiam 
is on the north side of the cape, about five miles from the Harbor. 
Opposite this place is the sand beach, which once supplied with 
sand all the towns from Portsmouth to Boston, at the time when it 
was used on floors instead of paint or carpets. 

The mackerel fishery is carried on to a great extent in this town. 
The following is an account of the business that has been done in 
this branch in the years 1S32, '33 and '34. The year 1835 was an 
unfortunate year to the mackerel catchers. There were inspected 
in 1S32, 8,13S barrels of No. 1, and 6,202 half barrels; of No. 2, 
15,421 barrels and 7,163 half barrels; of No. 3, 15,010 barrels and 
647 half barrels. In 1834, there were inspected of No. 1, 18,835 
barrels, and 9,432 half barrels; of No. 2, 20,638 barrels, and 6^591 
half barrels; of No. 3, 13,763 barrels, and 143 half barrels. 

The following is from the state Statistical Tables in 1837. Ves- 
sels employed in the cod and mackerel fishery, 221 ; tonnage of the 
same, 9,824; cod-fish caught, 55,181 quintals; value of the same, 
$186,516; mackerel caught, 43,934 barrels; value of the same, 
$335,566 ; salt used in the cod and mackerel fishery, 113,760 
bushels; hands employed, 1,580; capital invested, $349,000. 



GLOUCESTER. 179 

Immense quarries of light and gray granite are found in this 
town ; this is split into regularly formed blocks. It is of a fine 
grain, easily dressed, and can be loaded into vessels at little expense. 
There is an increasing demand for it. The quarries employ about 
three hundred men, who get out about 100,000 tons yearlv, and 
this is sold at an average price of ^2 per ton. Gloucester Bank 
commenced operation in 1796, with a capital of $40,000, and it 
was incorporated Jan. 27, 1800. Subsequent acts of the legisla- 
ture increased the capital to $200,000, its present amount. Here is 
an insurance company, with a capital of $100,000, and an institu- 
tion for savings. There is a newspaper printed in this place, 
called the Gloucester Telegraph. There are 14 churches in this 
town, of which 5 are Universalist, 4 Orthodox, 3 Baptist, 1 Unita- 
rian, and 1 Methodist. Five are located in the Harbor parish, 2 
in the West parish, 3 in Squam, 1 in Town parish, and 3 in Sandy 
Bay. 

It has been stated in some ancient publications that lions have 
been seen in this section of country. William Wood, the author 
of " New England's Prospect," says, concerning lions, " I will not 
say that I ever saw any myself, but some affirm that they have 
seen a lion at Cape Ann, which is not above ten leagues from Bos- 
ton. Some likewise being lost in the woods, have heard such ter- 
rible roarings, as have made them much aghast ; which must be 
either devils or lions, there being no other creatures which use to 
roar, saving bears, which have not such a terrible kind of roaring." 

This place was visited by a severe storm in August, 1635, in 
which a melancholy shipwreck took place. There had been a 
strong wind blowing from the south and south-east for a week ; at 
midnight it changed to the north-east, when a tremendous storm 
set in. Trees were torn up by their roots, vessels were driven from 
their anchorage, and houses were blown down. The tide rose 
twenty feet in height. During the storm, Mr. Allerton's bark was 
cast away upon the cape, twenty-one persons were drowned, of 
which number was the Rev. Mr. Avery, of Wiltshire, (Eng.) with 
his wife and six small children. All were lost except Mr. Thacher 
and his wife, who were cast upon the shore of an island and saved. 
The island where the two were saved was afterward called Thach- 
er's Island. The rock on which the vessel struck is still called 
Avery's rock. In 1671, a whirlwind of about forty feet in breadth 
passed through the neck that makes one side of the harbor, bearing 
all before it with such power that a large rock in the harbor came 
near being overturned. 

In 1692, memorable in the annals of mystery, many strange oc- 
currences took place at Gloucester. 

The people thought they saw armed Frenchmen and Indians running about their 
houses and fields ; these they often shot at when within a short distance ; the shot ap- 
peared to take effect, so much so as to cause them to fall, but on coming up they rose 
and ran away. The " unaccountable troublers" in return shot at the inhabitants of 
the town, who said that they heard the shot whiz by their ears. One man heard the 
report of a gun, the bullet of which whizzed by him and cut off a pine bush near at 



180 GLOUCESTER. 

hand, and lodged in a hemlock tree. Turning round, he saw four men advancing to- 
ward him with guns on their shoulders. There were others who saw where the bullet 
had lodged and cut ofl' the pine bush . For three weeks the alarm was so great that 
two regiments were raised, and a company of sixty men from Ipswich, under the com- 
mand of Major Appleton, was sent to their succor. The Rev. John Emerson, the cler- 
gyman of the town, says " all rational persons will be satisfied that Gloucester was not 
alarmed for a fortnight together by real Frenchmen and Indians, but that the devil and 
his agents were the cause of all that befel the towTi." Another writer asks " whether 
Satan did not set ambushments against the good people of Gloucester, with demons, in 
the shape of armed Indians and Frenchmen, appearing to a consideraljle number of the 
inhabitants, and mutually firing upon them for the best part of a month together." 

The following is taken from a pamphlet, entitled " Report of a 
Committee of the Linnsan Society of New England, relative to a 
large Marine Animal, supposed to be a Serpent, seen near Cape 
Ann, Massachusetts, August, 1817." The letter is from the Hon. 
Lonson Nash, of Gloucester. 

Gloucester, Sept. 9, 1817. 

Sir : Your favor of the second inst. has been received. The vote of thanks of the 
Linnaean Society for my services was highly gratifying to me, not simply on account 
of the high consideration I entertain for the members of that laudable institution, 
but likewise for the agreeable manner and respectable channel through which their vote 
of thanks was communicated to me. 

I have seen and conversed with the woman who was said to have seen the serpent 
dormant on the rocks, near the water, to whom you refer in yours ; but she can give 
no material evidence. Slie says that she saw something resembling a large log of wood 
on the rocks, on the extreme eastern point of Ten Pound Island, (a small island in our 
harbor,) resting partly on the rocks and partly in the water. The distance was about 
half a mile. She took a glass, looked at the object, and saw it move. Her attention 
was for a short time arrested by some domestic avocation, and when she looked for the 
object again it had disappeared. 

You request a detailed account of my observations relative to the serpent. I saw 
him on the fourteenth ultimo, and when nearest I judged him to be about two hundred 
and fifty yards from me. At that distance I judged him in the larger part about the 
size of a half bari'el, gradually tapering towards the two extremes. Twice I saw him 
with a glass, only for a short time, and at other times with the naked eye for nearly 
half an hour. His color appeared nearly black — his motion nearly vertical. When 
he moved on the surface of the water, the track in his rear was visible for at least half 
a mile. 

His velocity, when moving on the surface of the water, I judged M'as at the rate of a 
mile in about four minutes. Wlien immersed in the water, his speed was greater, 
moving, I should say, at the rate of a mile in two, or at most in three minutes. When 
moving under water, you could often trace him by the motion of the water on the sur- 
face, and from this circumstance I conclude he did not swim deep. He apparently 
went as straight through the water as you could draw a line. When he changed his 
course, it diminished his velocity but little — the two extremes that were visible appear- 
ed rapidly moving in opposite directions, and when they came parallel they appeared not 
more than a yard ajiart. With a glass I could not take in at one view the two extremes 
of the animal that were visible. I have looked at a vessel at about the same distance, 
and could distinctly see forty-five feet. If he should be taken, I have no doubt that 
his length would be found seventy feet, at least, and I should not be surprised if he 
should be found one hundred feet long. When I saw him I was standing on an emi- 
nence on the sea-shore, elevated about thirty feet above the surface of the water, and the 
sea was smooth. If I saw his head I could not distinguish it fi'om his body, though 
there were sea-faring men near me who said they could distinctly see his head. I 
believe they spoke truth, but, not having been much accustomed to look through a 
glass, I was not so fortunate. 

I never saw more than seven or eiglit distinct portions of him above the water 
at any one time, and he appeared rough, though I suppose this appearance was pro- 
duced by his motion. When he disappeared he apparently sunk directly down like a 
rock. Ciipt. Beach has been in Boston for a week past, and I am informed that he is 



HAMILTON. 181 

still there. An engraving from his drawing of the serpent has been or is now making 
in Boston, but I have not been able to ascertain how far his drawing is thought a 
correct representation. 

Respectfully, Sir, your most ob't. 
Hon. John Davis. Lonson Nash. 



HAMILTON 



Hamilton was formerly a part of Ipswich, and Avas called Ips- 
viich Hamlet until 1793, when it was incorporated as a separate 
town. Agriculture is the principal employment of the inhabitants, 
though shoes are made to a considerable extent annually. In 
1837, boots and shoes were manufactured to the value of $14,702. 
Population, 827. Distance from Boston, 26 miles. 

The town is pleasantly located, and the soil good : but the in- 
habitants are so much scattered that there is no compact village. 
Chebacco river takes its rise here, from Chebacco pond, and seve- 
ral other smaller ponds near the south-east boundary of the town. 
Wenhain swamp extends into the southern parts of the town. Ips- 
wich river runs along the western border. 

Hamilton has only one religious society ; this is Congregational, 
and was organized in '1714. as the third of Ipswich. The Rev. 
Samuel Wigglesworth, the first pastor, was settled in 1714, died in 
1768. He was succeeded by the Rev. Manasseh Cutler, in 1771, 
who died in 1823. His successor was the Rev. Joseph B. Felt, 
who was installed in 1824, resigned in 1833. 

Mr. Felt is author of Annals of Salem, History of Ipswich, Ham- 
ilton and Essex. The following is an extract from his history of 
this place. " There are four families in this town called bleeders ; 
three of them are immediately and the other mediately related. 
The number of individuals so denominated are five. They are 
thus named from an unusual propensity in their arteries and veins 
to bleed profusely, even from slight wounds. A cut or other hurt 
upon them assumes at first the common appearance ; but after 
a week or fortnight the injured part begins and continues, for seve- 
ral days, to send forth almost a steady stream of blood, until this 
disappears, and it becomes nearly as colorless as water. A por- 
tion of the coagulated blood forms a cone, large or small according 
to the wound. The bleeding ceases when the cone, which has a 
minute aperture and is very foetid, falls off. The persons thus 
constituted dare not submit to the operation of the lancet. 
They often bleed abundantly at the nose, and are subject to se- 
vere and premature rheumatism. Some of their predecessors have 
come to their end by wounds which are not considered by any 
means dangerous for people in general. This hemorrhage first 
appeared in the Appleton family, who brought it with them from 
England. None but males are bleeders, whose immediate children 
are not so, and whose daughters only have sons thus disposed. 
As to the precise proportion of these who may resemble their grand- 
fathers in bleeding of this kind, past observation furnishes no data; 
it has been found altogether uncertain." 



182 HAVERHILL. 



HAVERHILL. 

The precise time of the settlement of Haverhill is not known. 
Gov. Winthrop, in his journal, says, " Mo. 3, 1643. About this 
time two plantations began to be settled upon Merrimack river : 
PentKckett, called Haverhill, and CocMcheiolck, called Andover." 
The settlement, it is believed, was begun in 1640 or 41. The town 
is said to have been called Haverhill in compliment to Mr. Ward, 
the first minister, who was born in Haverhill, in Essex county, in 
England. " The town at first extended six miles north of the 
Merrimack, and was fourteen miles upon the river. It was inte- 
rested in the long dispute about the boundaries between the pro- 
vinces of Massachusetts and New Hampshire, which was at length 
settled by connnissioners in 1737. Col. Richard Saltonstall, Rich- 
ard Hazzen, and Dea. James Ayer, represented the town before 
these commissioners." The township formerly embraced within 
its limits a part of the towns of Methuen, Salem, Atkinson, and 
the town of Plaistow, in New Hampshire. The following is a 
copy of the Indian deed of the town. 

" Know all Men by these Presents, that wee Passaquo and Saggahew, with the concent 
of Passaoonnaway, have sold unto the inhabitants of Pentuckett all the land wee have 
in Pentuckett ; that is, eight miles in length from the little river in Pentuckett west- 
ward, six miles in length irom the aforesaid river northward, and six miles in length 
from the aforesaid river eastward, with the islands and the river that the islands stand 
in, as far in length as the land lyes, as formerly expressed, that is, fourteene myles in 
length; and wee the said Passaquo and Saggahew, with the consent of Passaconnaway, 
have sold unto the said inhabbittants all the right that wee or any of us have in the 
said ground, and islands and river; and do warrant it against all or any other Indians 
whatsoever, unto the said inhabbittants of Pentuckett, and to their heirs and assigns 
forever. Dated fifteenth day of November: Anno Dom: 1642. Witness our hands 
and seals to this bargayne of sale, the day and yeare above written, (in the presents of 
us.) Wee the said Passaquo and Saggahew have received in hand, for and in consi- 
deration of the same, three pounds and ten shillings." 

The two Indians above named signed the above by making their 
marks, each a bow and arrow, and is witnessed by John Ward, 
Robert Clements, Tristam Coffin, Hugh Sherrit, William White, 
and Thomas Davis. 

The following are the names of those persons who accompanied 
Mr. Ward, the minister, and began the first settlement of Haverhill. 
Those in italics were from Newbury. William White, Samuel 
Gile, James Davis, Henry Palmer, John Robinson, Abraham Tyler, 
Daniel Ladd, Joseph Merrie, Christopher Hursey, Job Clement, 
Johi Williams, Richard Littlehale. Before the town was settled, 
it was covered with a dense forest, except the lowlands or meadows. 
These were cleared by the Indians, perhaps centuries before the 
arrival of the English settlers, and they were covered with a heavy 
growth of grass, so thick and high, it is said, that it was impossi- 
ble to discover man or beast at a distance of five rods. On account 
of the grass, these lands were prized above all others by the settlers, 
on account of procuring hay for their cattle. The first house was 



HAVERHILL. 



1&3 



f^reeted near the old bnrying-groiuid, about ^one fourth of a mile 
cast of the Haverhill bridge. 




Eaitern view of Haverhill 

The above shows the appearance of Haverhill from the road on 
the northern bank of the Merrimac, as the village is entered from 
the eastward. Haverhill bridge, the one seen in the view, is hardly- 
excelled by any structure of the kind in New England for strength 
and durability. The location of the village is uncommonly beau- 
tiful. It is built on the south side of a gentle acclivity, which rises 
gradually from the river, Avhich winds before it in the form of a 
crescent. Water and Main streets, the principal streets in the 
village, are .somewhat irregular. Water street is a mih or more 
in length; it rims parallel with the river, and is thicldy built on 
both sides v/ith buildings of various kinds.. j\Iain street intersects 
with Water street opposite the bridge, and runs north. On it are 
a number of elegant buildings. Summer street, which was opened 
a few years since, on the brow of the hill, intersecting Main street, 
is the pleasantest in the village, and is adorned witli elegant 
dwelling-houses. The " Merrimac Bank," in this place, v/as 
incorporated in 1S14, with a capital of ,$270,000. There is an 
institution for savings, an academy, and two printing-offices, each 
of which issues a weekly paper. There are 8 houses of worj^hip 
in the town, viz. 4 Congregational, 2 Baptist, 1 Universalist, and 
1 Christian. Population, 4,726. Distance, 14 miles from New- 
buryport, 15 from Ipswich, 30 from Portsmouth, and 29 from Bos- 
ton. In 1837, there were manufactured in this town 12.003 pairs 
of boots; 1,387,118 pairs of shoes; the value of boots and slioos, 
$1,005,424 55; males employed, 1,715; females, 1,170. There 
were 4 tanneries ; hides tanned, 8,050 ; value of leather tanned 
and curried, $115,630, (part of the leather tanned in other towns) ; 
hands employed, 47. Six hat manufictories ; hats manufactured, 
125,593: value of hats, ^75,365; males employed. 83; females. 

25 



184 HAVERHILL. 

39. One woollen mill, which manufactured $78,000's worth n( 
woollen goods. 

For more than seventy years, Haverhill was a frontier town, 
and often sutFered the horrors of savage warfare. The following 
accounts are taken from Mirick's History of Haverhill^ published 
in Haverhill, in 1832. The accounts are evidently draAvn up with 
a good deal of care and accuracy. 

On the 13th of March, 11)97, a body of Indians made a descent on the westerljf part 
of the town, and approached the house of Mr. Thomas Dustin. They came, as they 
were wont, arrayed with all the terrors of a savage war dress, witli their muskets 
charged for the contest, their tomahawks drawn for the slaughter, and their scalping 
knives unsheathed and glittering in the sunbeams. Mr. Dustin at this time was 
engaged abroad in his daily labor. When the terrific shouts of the blood-hounds first 
fell on his ear, he seized his gun, mounted his horse, and hastened to his house, with 
the hope of escorting to a place of safety his family, which consisted of his wife, whom 
he tenderly and passionately loved, and who had been confined only seven days in 
childbed, her nurse, 3Irs. Mary Neff, and eight young children. Immediately 
upon his arrival, he rushed into his house, and found it a scene of confusion — 
the women trembling for their safety, and the children weeping and calling on their 
mother for protection. He iinstantly ordered seven of his children to fly in an oppo- 
site direction from that in which the danger was approaching, and went himself to 
assist his wife. But he was too late — before she could arise from her bed, the enemy 
were upon theln. 

Mr. Dustin, seeing there was no hope of saving his wife from the clutches of the 
foe, flew from the house, mounted his horse, and rode full speed after his flying chil- 
dren. The agonized father supposed it impossible to save them all, and he determined 
to snatch from death the child which shared the most of his affections. He soon came 
up with the infant brood ; he heard their glad voices and saw the cheerful looks that 
overspread their countenances, for they felt themselves safe while under his protection. 
He looked for the child of his love — where was it? He scanned the little group from 
the oldest to the youngest, but he could not find it. They all fondly loved him — they 
called him by the endearing title of father, were flesh of his flesh, and stretched out 
their little arms toward him for protection. He gazed upon them, and faltered in his 
resolution, for there was none whom he could leave behind ; and, indeed, what parent 
could, in such a situation, select the child which shared the most of his affections ? 
He could not do it, and therefore resolved to defend them from the murderers, or die 
at their side. 

A small party of the Indians pursued Mr. Dustin as he fled from the house, and 
soon overtook him and his flying children. They did not, however, approach very 
near, for they saw his determination, and feared the vengeance of a father, but skulked 
behind the trees and fences, and fired upon him and his little company. Mr. Dustin 
dismounted from his horse, placed himself in the rear of his children, and returned the 
fire of the enemy often and with good success. In this manner he retreated tor more 
than a mile, alternately encouraging his terrified charge, and loading arid firing his 
gun, until he lodged them safely in a forsaken house. The Indians, finding that they 
could not conquer him, returned to their companions, e.xpecting, no doubt, that they 
should there find victims, on which they might exercise their savage cruelty. 

The party which entered the house when Mr. Dustin left it, found Mrs. Dustin in 
bed, and the nurse attempting to fly with the infant in her arms. They ordered Mrs. 
Dustin to rise instantly, while one of them took the infant from the arms of the nurse, 
carried it out, and dashed out its brains against an apple-tree. After plundering the 
house they set it on fire, and commenced their retreat, though Mrs. Dustin had but 
partly dressed herself, and was without a shoe on one of her feet. Mercy was a stran- 
ger to the breasts of the conquerors, and the unhappy women expected to receive no 
kindnesses from their hands. The weather at the time was exceedingly cold, the 
March-wind blew keen and piercing, and the earth was alternately covered with snow 
and deep mud. 

They travelled twelve miles the first day, and continued their retreat, day by day, 
following a circuitous route, until they reached the home of the Indian who claimed 
them as his property, which was on a small island, now called Dustin's Island, at the 
mouth of the Contoocook river, about six miles above the state-house in Concord, 
New Hampshire. Notwithstanding their intense suffering for the death of the child 
— their anxiety for those whom they had left behind, and who they expected had been 



HAVERHILL, 185 

cruelly butchered — their sufferings from cold and hunger, and from sleeping on the 
damp earth, with nothing but an inclement sky for a covering — and their terror for 
themselves, lest the arm that, as they supposed, had slaughtered those whom they 
dearly loved, would soon be made red with their blood, — notwithstanding all this, they 
performed the journey without yielding, and arrived at their destination in compara 
live health. 

The family of their Indian master consisted of two men, three women, and seven 
children ; besides an English boy, named Samuel Lennardson, who was taken pri- 
soner about a year previous, at Worcester. Their master, some years before, had 
lived in the family of Rev. Mr. Rowlandson, of Lancaster, and he told Sirs. Dustin 
that " when he praved the English way he thought it was good, but now he found the 
French way better." 

These unfortunate women had been but a few days with the Indians, when they 
were intbrined that they must soon start for a distant Indian settlement, and that, upon 
their arrival, they would be obliged to conform to the regulations always required of 
prisoners, whenever they entered the village, which was, to be stripped, scourged, and 
run the gauntlet in a state of nudity. The gauntlet consisted of two files of Indians, 
of both sexes and of all ages, containing all that could be mustered in the village; 
and the unhappy prisoners were obliged to run between them, when they were 
scoffed at and beaten by each one as they passed, and were sometimes marks at 
which the younger Indians threw their hatchets. This cruel custom was often prac- 
tised by many of the tribes, and not unfrequently the poor prisoner sunk beneath it. 
Soon as the two women were informed of this, they determined to escape as speedily 
as possible. They could not bear to be exposed to the scoffs and unrestrained gaze 
of their savage conquerors — death would be preferable. Mrs. Dustin soon planned a 
mode of escape, appointed the 31st inst. for its accomplishment, and prevailed upon 
her nurse and the boy to join her. The Indians kept no watch, for tlie boy had lived 
with them so long they considered him as one of their children, and they did not 
expect that the women, unadvised and unaided, would attempt to escape, when suc- 
cess, at the best, appeared so desperate. 

On the day previous to the 31st, Mrs. Dustin wished to learn on what part of the 
body the Indians struck their victims when they would despatch them suddenly, and 
liow they took off a .scalp. With this view she instructed the boy to make inquiries 
of one of the men. Accordingly, at a convenient opportunity, he asked one of thera 
where he would strike a man if he would kill him instantly, and how to take off a 
scalp. The man laid his finger on his temple — " Strike 'em there," said he ; and then 
instructed him how to scalp. The boy then communicated his information to Mrs. 
Dustin. 

The night at length arrived, and the whole family retired to rest, little suspecting 
that the most of them would never behold another sun. Long before the break of day, 
Mrs. Dustin arose, and, having ascertained that they were all in a deep sleep, awoke 
her nurse and the boy, when they armed themselves with tomahawks, and despatched 
ten of the twelve. A favorite bo}' they designedly left ; and one of the squaws, whom 
they left for dead, jumped up, and ran with him into the woods. Mrs. Dustin killed 
her master, and Samuel Lennardson despatched the very Indian who told him where 
to strike, and h(nv to take off a scalp. The deed was accomplished before the day 
began to break, and, after securing what little provision the wigwam of then' dead 
master afforded, they scuttled all the boats but one, to prevent pursuit, and with that 
started for their homes. Mrs. Dustin took with her a gun that belonged to her master, 
and the tomahawk M"ith which slie coinmitled the tragical deed. They had not pro- 
ceeded far, however, when Mrs. Dustin perceived that they had n-eglected to 
take their scalps, and feared that her neighbors, if they ever arrived at their homes, 
would not credit their story, and would ask them for some token or proof. She told 
her fears to her companions, and they immediately returned to the silent wigwam, took 
off the scalps of the fallen, and put them into a bag. They then started on their jour 
ney anew, with the gun, tomahawk, and the bleeding trophies, — palpable witnesse^5 
of their heroic and unparalleled deed. 

A lonsr and weary journey was before them, but they commenced it Avith cheerful 
hearts, each alternately riAving and steering their little bark. Though they had 
escaped from the clutches of their imfeeling master, still they were surrounded with 
dangers. They were thinly clad, the sky Avas still inclement, and they were liable to 
be re-captured by strolling bands of Indians, or by those who would undoubtedly pur- 
sue them so soon as the squaw and the boy had reported their departure, and the ter- 
rible vengeance they had taken ; and were they again made prisoners, they well knew 
that a speedy death would folloAV. This array of danger, however, did not appall thern 



JSG 



HAVERHILL 



{(TV hoffie was thi^ir beacon-light, and the ilioughts o? their firesides nerved their hearts. 
Th-'V continued to droj) silently down the river, keeping a good lookout for stroUing 
Indians ; and in the ni?ht two of ihem only slept, while the third managed the boat. 
In thia mannir they pursued their journey, until they arrived safely, with their trophies, 
ri'f fheir homes, totally unexpected by their mourning friends, who supposed that they 
hid been butchered by their ruthless conquerors. It must truly have been an afl'ect- 
tag meeting for Mrs. Dustin, who likewise supposed that all she loved — all she held 
dear on earth — was laid in the silent tomb. 

After recovering from the fatigue of the journey, they .started for Boston, where they 
arrived on the 2'lst of April. They carried with them the gun and tomahawk, and 
ih'nr ten scalps — those witnesses that would not lie ; and while there, the general 
cjurt gave them fifty pounds, as a reward for their heroism. The report of their 
d.iring deed soon spread into every part of the country, a,nd when Colonel Nicholson, 
governor of jMaryland, heard of it, he sent them a very valuable present, and many 
presents were also made to them by their neighbors. 

The following lines, descriptive of the foregoing, were written by 
Mrs. )Sarah J. Hale, editor of the Ladies' Magazine, recently pub- 
lished in Boston, They contain much of the "soul of poetry." 

THE FATHER'S CHOICE. 



Nrr.v fly, as flies the rushing wind — 

Urge, urge lliy lagging sleed 1 
The savage yell is tierce beliind, 

And life is on thy spjed. 

Aiiif fi'O'.n tli'«e deiir oaes make ihy choice ; 

The grmp he wildly eyed, 
When •'faliierl" bnrsl from every voice, 

And " child !" his heait replied. 

There's oae that now can share his toil, 

And one he meani fir fame. 
And o;ie thai we irs her mother's smile, 

Arid o.ie that liears her name ; 

And firjB will pr.atlla on his knee, 

Or slmnber on hfs breast ; 
And one whoje jo.s of infancy 

Are' still by smiles exp/essed. 

They fe'^l no fear vhile he is neir ; 

He'11'.shield ihirn from the foe; 
But oh ! his ear must thrill to heap 

Their shriekinijs, should he go. 

In vain his quiveriig lips would speak; 

No Words his ihimghis allow: 
There's huinin? tears upon his cheek — 
. Death's marble on his brow. 

And twice he stnote bis cle icticd hand — 

The,! bade his children fiy ! 
And lurried, and e'fn thai savage band 

Coue.ed ai his wrat.iful eye. 

Swift as the liirhtniii?. winged with death, 
Flashed foriu thi- ijiiiveriag flame! 



Their fiercest warrior hows beneath 
The father's deadly aim. 

Not the wild cries, that rend the skies, 

His heart of purpose move; 
He saves his children, or he dies 

The sacri.ice of love. 

Ambition goads the conqueror on, 
Hale points tlie murderer's brand — 

But love and duty, these alone 
Can nerve the good man's hand. 

The hero may resign the field, 

The coward murd'rer flee ; 
He cannot fear, he will not yield, 

That strikes, sweet love, for thee. 

They come', they come — he heeds no cry, 

Save the soft child like wail. 
" O, father, save !" ■' My children, fly!" 

Were mingled oa the gale. 

And firmer still he drew his breath, 

And sterner flash'd his eye. 
As fast he hurls the leaden death, 

Still shouting, " Children, fly!" 

No shadow oii his brow appeared, 

Nor tremor shook his frame, 
Save when at intervals he heard 

Some trembler lisp his name. 

In vain the foe, tlMse fiends unchained, 

Like famished tigers chafe, 
The sheltering roof is near'd, is gain'd, 

All, all the dear ones safe ! 



'The 20th of August, 170S, a party of French and Indians, fr^nn 
Canada, felt \\])on HaA'-erhill, and killed and captured about forty 
inhabitants. The following is from Mirick's History of Haverhill. 

It is said that their first design was to attack Portsmouth, and then, marching rap'dly 
ynward to other settlements, spread terror and desolation along the whole frontier. 
But being unable to accQiuplish this on account of the unexpected desertions, they 
were obliged to compress their views. Their whole fofce was now about 250, a small 
number when compared with that which started from Canada. Probably tlie French 
olhcers felt ashamed to return without eiTecting something, after they had been at so 
much trouble and expense ; accordingly, Haverhill, a compact village, consisting of 
about thirty hou.«es, wa.s selected for the slaughter. 

Ar the break of day, on the 29th of August, they passed the frontier garrisons undis^- 
covered, and were first seen near the pound, marching two and two, by John Keezar, 
WuiiS'^ai remnling from Amesbury. He immediately ran into the Village and alarmecj 



HAVERHILL 



187 



the inhabitants, who seem to have slept totally unguarded, by firing his gun near the 
meeting-house. The enemy soon appeared, making the air ring with terrific yells, 
with a sort of whistle, which, says tradition, could be heard as far as a horn, and 
clothed in all the terrors of a savage war-dress. They scattered in every direction 
over the village, so that they might accomplish their bloody work with more despatch. 
The first person they saw was Mrs. Smith, whom they shot as she was flying from 
her house to a garrison. The foremost party attacked the house of Rev. Benjamin 
Rolfe, which was then garrisoned with three soldiers, and he, and a part of his 
beloved and accomplished family, were suddenly awakened from their slumbers, only 
to hear the horrid knell for their departure. Mr. Rolfe instantly leaped from his bed, 
placed himself against the door, which they were endeavoring to beat in, and called 
on the soldiers for assistance ; but these craven-hearted men refused to give it, for 
they were palsied with fear, and walked to and fro through the chambers, crying and 
swinging their arms. Had they displayed but half the ordinary courage of men, no 
doubt they would have successfully defended the house. But, instead of that, they did 
not fire a gun, or even lift a finger towards its defence. The enemy, finding their 
entrance strenuously opposed, fired two balls through the door, one of which took 
effect, and wounded Mr. Rolfe in the elbow. They then pressed against it with their 
united strength, and Mr. Rolfe, finding it impossible to resist them any longer, fled 
precipitately through the house, and out at the back door. The Indians followed, 
overtook him at the well, and despatched him with their tomahawks. They then 
searched every part of the house for plunder, and also for other victims, on whom they 
might inflict their savage cruelties. They soon found Mrs. Rolfe and her youngest 
child, Mehitable, and while one of them sunk his hatchet deep in her head, another 
took the infant from her dying grasp, and dashed its head against a stone near the 
door. 

Two of Mr. Rolfe's children, about six and eight years of age, were providentially 
saved by the sagacity and courage of Hagar, a negro slave, who was an inmate of the 
family. Upon the first alarm, she leaped from her bed, carried them into the cellar, 
covered them with two tubs, and then concealed herself. The enemy entered the 
cellar and plundered it of every thing valuable. They repeatedly passed the tubs that 
covered the two children, and even trod on the foot of one, without discovering them. 
They drank milk from the pans, then dashed them on the cellar bottom, and took meat 
from the barrel, behind which Hagar was concealed. 

Anna Whittaker, who was then living in the family of Mr. Rolfe, concealed herself* 
in an apple-chest under the stairs, and escaped unharmed. But it fared differently 
with the cowardly soldiers. They earnestly begged for mercy of their inhuman con- 
querors, but their cries were unheeded, and, when the massacre was over, their bodies 
were numbered with the slain. 

The family of Thomas Hartshorne suffered as severely as that of Mr. Rolfe. He 
saw a party approaching to assault his house, which stood a few rods west of the 
meeting-house, and escaped out of it, followed by two of his sons, to call assistance ; 
but airthree Avere shot dead immediately after leaving it. A third son was toma- 
hawked as he was coming out at the door. Mrs. Hartshorne, with that presence of 
mind which is a characteristic of her sex when surrounded with danger, instantly took 
the rest of her children — except an infant which she left on a bed in the garret, and 
which she was afraid would, by its cries, betray their place of concealment, if she took 
it with her — through a trap-door into the cellar. The enemy entered the house, and 
began to plunder it, but happily did not discover them. They went into the garret, 
took the infant from its bed, aiid threw it out at the window. It fell on a pile of clap- 
boards, and when the action was over it was found completely stunned. It lived, 
however, and became a man of uncommon statiare, and of remarkable strength. His 
neighbors would frequently joke him, and say that the Indians stunted him when they 
threw him from the garret-window. 

One of the parties proceeded towards the river, and attacked the house of Lieut. 
John Johnson. Mr. Johnson and his wife, with an infant a year old in her arms, 
were standing at the door when the enemy made their appearance. Mr. Johnson 
was shot, and his wife fled through the house into the garden, carrying her babe, 
where she was overtaken by the foe, and immedia,tely despatched. But when she fell, 
she was careful not to injure her child, and it seemed as if her last thoughts were for 
its safety. The enemy, it appears, did not murder it, and it is somewhat remarkable 
that they did not, for they always took great delight in torturing and dashing out the 
brains of innocent babes. Perhaps it was because the mother was not alive to witness 
its agonies. After the massacre was over, it was found at the breast of its dead 
jnotjier. 



188 HAVERHILL. 

Another party rifled and burnt the house of Mr. Silver, which stood within ten rods 
of the meeting-house, and others attacked the watch-house, which was, however, suc- 
f-essfully dpfeiuled. Another party went to the house of Capt. Simon Wainwright, 
whom they killed at the first fire. The soldiers stationed in the chambers were pre- 
paring to defend the house till the last, when Mrs. Wainwright fearlessly unbarred the 
door and let them in. She spoke to them kindly, waited upon them with seeming 
alacrity, and promised to procure them whatever they desired. The enemy knew not 
M'hat to make of this; — the apparent cheerfulness with which they were received, and 
the kindness with which they were treated, was so different from what they expected 
to meet with, that it seemed to paralyze their energies. They, however, demanded 
money of Mrs. Wainwright, and upon her retiring " to bring it," as she said, she fled 
with all of her children, except one daughter, who was taken captive, and were not 
afterwards discovered. The enemy, so soon as they found out how completely thev 
had been deceived, were greatly enraged, and attacked the chambers with great vio- 
lence ; but the soldiers courageously defended them, and, after attempting to fire the 
house, they retreated, taking with them thi'ee prisoners. In the mean time, two 
Indians skulked behind a large stone, which stood in the field a few rods east of the 
house, where they could fire upon its inmates at their leisure. The soldiers in the 
chambers fired upon them, and killed them both. They were afterwards buried in the 
same field, a few rods soiuh, and but a few years since the water washed their skele- 
tons from their places of repose. 

Two Indians attacked the house of ]\Ir. Swan, wnich stood m the field now called 
White's lot, nearly opposite to the house of Capi. Emerson. Swan and his wife saw 
them approaching, and determined, if possible, to save their own lives, and the lives of 
their children, from the knives of the ruthless butchers. They immediately placed 
themselves agniiist the door, which was so narrow that two could scarcely enter 
abreast. The Imlians rushed against it, but finding that it could not be easily opened, 
they commenced their operations more systematically. One of them placed his back 
to the door, so that he could make his whole strength bear upon it, while the other 
pushed against him. The strength of the besiegers was greater than that of the 
besieged, and JMr. Swan, being rather a timid man, said our venerable narrator, almost 
despaired of saving himself and family, and told his wife that he thought it would be 
better to let them in. But this resolute and courageo\is woman had no such idea. 
The Indians had now succeeded in partly opening the door, and one of them was 
crowding himself in, while the other was pushing lustily after. The heroic wife saw 
there was no time for parleying — she seized her spit, which was nearly three feet in 
length, and a deadly weapon in the hands of woman, as it proved, and, collecting all 
the strength she possessed, drove it through the body of the foremost. This was too 
warm a reception for the besiegers — it was resistance from a source and with a 
weapon they little expected ; and, surely, who else would ever think of spitting a man ? 
The two Indians, thus repulsed, immediately retreated, and did not molest them 
again. Thus, by the fortittide and heroic courage of a wife and mother, this family 
was probably saved from a bloody grave. 

One of the parties set fire to the back side of the meeting-house, a new and, for that 
period, an elegant building. These transactions were all performed about the same 
time ; but they were not permitted to continue their work of murder and conflagration 
long, before they became panic-struck. Mr. Davis, an intrepid man, weiit behind 
Mr. Rolfe's barn, which stood near the house, struck it violently with a large club, 
called on men by name, gave the word of command, as though he were ordering an 
attack, and shouted with a loud voice, " Come on ! come on ! we will have them ! " 
The party in ]\Ir. Rolfe's house, supposing that a large body of the English had come 
upon them, began the cry of " The English are come ! " and, after attempting to fire 
the house, precipitately left it. About this time Major Turner arrived with a company 
of soldiers, and the whole body of the enemy then commenced a rapid retreat, taking 
with them a number of prisoners. The retreat commenced about the rising of the 
sun. Meantime Mr. Davis ran to the meeting-house, and with the aid of a few others 
succeeded in extinguishing the devouring eiement ; but it was mostly owing to his 
exertions that the house was saved. 

The town, by this time, was generally alarmed. Joseph Bradley collected a small 
party, in the northerly part of it, and secured the medicine-box and packs of the 
enemy, which they had left about three miles from the village. Capt. Samuel Ayer, 
a fearless man. and of great strength, collected a body of about twenty men, and pur- 
sued the retreating foe. He came up with them just as they were entering the woods, 
when they faced about, and though they numbered thirteen or more to one, still Capt. 
Ayer did not hesitate to give them battle. These gallant men were soon reinforced 



H A V E It H I L L 



189 



by another party, under tlie commatid of his son; and after a severe slvirmish, which 
lasted about an hour, they re-toolc some of the prisoners, and the enemy precipitately 
retreated, leaving nine of their number dead. 

The first minister of Haverhill, Rev. John Ward, is represented 
as a person of quick apprehension, facetious conversation, "an 
exact grammarian, an expert physician, and, Avliich was the top 
of all, a thorough divine ; but, which rarely happens, these endow- 
ments of his mind Avere accompanied with a most healthy, hard}', 
and agile constitution of body, which enabled him to make nothing 
of walking, on foot, a journey ns long as thirty miles together." He 
preached (says Dr. Mather) an excellent sermon in the eighty- 
eighth year of his age. He died in 1(593, and was succeeded by 
Rev. Benjamin Rolfe, who was killed in the descent of the Indians 
upon Haverhill, in 1708. The next minister was Rev. .fosluia 
Gardner, who was ordained in 1711. and died in 1715. Rev. John 
Brown, the next, was ordained in 1719, and died in 1742. His suc- 
cessor was Rev. Edward Barnard, was ordained in 1743, and died 
in 1774. The next minister was Rev. John Shaw, settled in 1777, 
and died suddenly 1794, and was succeeded in 1795 by Rev. Abie! 
Abbot, D. D., who was dismissed at his own request hi 1803, on 
account of an unhappy controversy Iiaving arisen on account of 
the insufficiency of his salary. Rev. Josiah Dodge, his successor, 
was ordained in 1808. Mr. Dodge was succeeded b3r Rev. Dud- 
ley Phelps, in 1828. The Central churcJi was organized in 1833, 
and Rev. Joseph Whittlesey settled as pastor the same year. The 
North church was gathered in 1728 ; the Third church \vas formed 
in 1735, and the East church in 1743. The first Baptist church in 
the county of Essex was gathered in this town, by Rev. Hezekiah 
Smith, in 1765. Mr. Smith conducted himself with great prudence, 
and gradually obtained general esteem and respect. He was an 
eminent clergyman, and in 1797 received a degree of D. D. from 
Providence college, of which institution he was a faithful friend 
and trustee. He died in 1805, and was succeeded by the Rev. 
William Bachelder. 

The following historical items were principally obtained from 
the records of the town : 

The first bell was purchased in 1748. Before that time there was a singular sub- 
stitute, as appears by a vote passed in 1650 : '• That Abraham Tyler blow his horn 
half an hour before meetine;, on the Lord's day, and on lecture days, and receive one 
pound of pork annually for his services from eacli family." 

In 1650, a vote was passed "that the freeholders attend town meeting within half 
an hour after the time notitied, and continue m. town meeting till sunset, unless the 
same is sooner closed, on penalty of paying half a bushel of corn." 

Johnson, iu his account of this town, says, -'The people are wholly bent to improve 
their labour by tilling the earth and keeping of cattel, whose yearly increase incou- 
rages them to spend their days in those remote parts. '^ So n-hollij bint were they upon 
liusbandry, as to suffer for the want of mechanics. There is iu the town records a 
contract signed by Mr. Ward, the minister, and nineteen others, dit<'d February 6, 
1058, in which they agree to pay their proportion of 20 pounds for the purchase of a 
house and land for Mr. Jewett, provided he live here seven years. foUoivini( tin trade of a 
blacksmith in doing the t07ni's tvorl: ; " also the said Jewett doth promise to refuse to work 
f'lr any that refuse to pay towards this purchase, until they bring under the selectmen's 
liands that they will pay." 

The first meeting-house for the first church stood in front oi the grave-yRtd, half a 



19@ H A V E R H I L . 

mile below the bridge. In this vicinity the settlement began. In 1666, John Hutch- 
ings had " liberty to build a gallarie at the west end of the meeting-house, provided he 
give notice to the town at the next training day whether he will of noe, so that any 
inhabitant of the town that has a mind to join with him may give in his name." In 
1681, it was voted "to enlarge the room in the east end of it by making a gallerie 
therein for the women." The second house was built in 1699, and, after a great con- 
tention whether it should be built where the first stood, a majority voted to erect it about 
fifty feet in front of where the third church was built in 1766. 

Col. Nath. Saltonstall, one of the assistants of the colony, was the clerk or recorder 
of the town from 166S to 1700, and his records are in a very superior style, although 
he took the liberty occasionally of adding his own comments. In 1689, the town passed 
a vote " to pay Mr. Ward his full salary for the next year, provided that he, upon his 
own cost, do for the next ensuing year board Mr. Roife." The record begins, " The 
town then (Mr. Ward and his son Salstonstall being absent) voted, &;c. The mar- 
ginal reference is £20 taken from Mr. Ward for Mr. Rolfe's diet, in '9(1, without his 
consent." Three lines, which probably contained some severe remark are blotted out, 
and the marginal note says it was " blotted out by order of the town." 

Mr. Rolfe, the second minister, began to preach in Haverhill in 
1689, and was ordained in January, 1693-4. Mr. Ward, the first 
minister, who died in 1693, agreed to abate all his salary except 
£20, half in merchantable wheat, Indian, &c, and half in money, 
and fifty cords of wood annually, upon condition that the town 
should pay all arrearages of his salary, and appoint a committee 
" to attend at his house upon a sett day to receive and take account 
of what shall be brought in, and sett the price thereof if it be not 
merchantable, that so it come not in by pitiful driblets as former- 
ly." Mr. Rolfe's salary was £60, half in corn and other articles. 
He was graduated at Cambridge in 16S4. This worthy minis- 
ter was killed in what since has been called the " great descent" 
of the Indians upon Haverhill. The following is the inscription 
on his monument : 

Claudittjr hoc tumulo corpus Reverendi pii doctique viri D. Beniamin Rolfe, 

ECCLESSIiE ChRISTI QUjE EST IN HaUERHILL PASTORIS FIDELISSIMI ; QUI DOMI SU^ AB 
HOSTIBUS BARBARE TRUCIDATUS. A LABORIBUS SUIS REQUIEUIT MANE DIEI SACR.ffi QUIETIS, 

Aug. XXIX., anno domini mdccviii., jetatis su^ xlvi. 

(Inclosed in this tomb is the body of the reverend, pious, and learned Benjamin 
Kolfe, the faithful pastor of the Church of Christ in Haverhill ; who was barbarously 
slain in his own house by the enemy. He rested from his labors early on the day of 
sacred rest, Aug. 29, 1708, in the 46th year of his age.) 

The following is the inscription on the monument of Dr. Smith, 
the first Baptist minister in this place. 

In memory of the Rev. Hezekiah Smith, D. D., who was born at Long Island, state 
of New York, 21 April, A. D. 1737, graduated at Princeton College, A. D. 1758. He 
was ordained as an evangelist, in Charleston, South Carolina, and was the first pastor 
of the Baptist church in Haverhill, and took charge of the flock 12 November, A. D. 
1766. He departed this life 24 January, A. D. 1805, after forty years faithfully per- 
forming the pastoral duties. He was laborious and successful in his preaching, and 
an able defender of the christian faith. His discourses were delivered with fervency 
and a becoming solemnity. He was a vigilant watchman in the various stations of 
his ofiice. In his social circle he shone conspicuously. His deportment through life 
exhibited the humble christian and faithful minister of Jesus Christ. 

There's a hast'ning hour, it comes, it comes, 
To rouse the sleeping dead, to burst the tombs. 
And place the saints in view. 



IPSWICH. 191 

IPSWICH. 

The Indian name of Ipswich was Agmeam, a word, it is said, 
which denoted a place where fish of passage resorted : it was ap- 
phed to several places in Massachusetts. This is said to have 
been the first place in Essex county known to have been visited 
by Europeans. In 1611, Capt. Edward Hardie and Nicholas 
Hobson sailed for North Virginia ; they touched at this place and 
were kindly received. In 1614, Capt. John Smith, in his descrip- 
tion of North Virginia, or New England, thus speaks of Agawam : 
" Here are many rising hills, and on their tops and descents are 
many corne fields and delightfull groues. On the east is an isle of 
two or three leagues in length, the one halfe plaine marish ground, 
fit for pasture, or salt ponds, with many faire high groues of mul- 
berry trees. There are also okes, pines, walnuts, and other wood, 
to make this place an excellent habitation." The first permanent 
settlement was commenced in March, 1633, by Mr. John Winthrop 
jr. and twelve others, among whom were Mr. William Clerk, Ro- 
bert Coles, Thomas Howlet, John Biggs, John Gage, Thomas 
Hardy, William Perkins, Mr. John Thorndike, and William Ser- 
jeant. The next year (1634) Agawam Avas incorporated by the 
name of Ipswich. 

Johnson remarks of Ipswich dwellings about 1646, " their 
houses are many of them very faire built, with pleasant gardens." 
In 1638, Masconnoment. the sagamore of Agawam, sold his right 
to Ipswich for £20. This chief appears to have died about 1658. 
He lived to see his people become almost extinct. He was buried 
on Sagamore Hill, now within the bounds of Hamilton. As late 
as 1726, there were three families, each having a wigwam back 
of Wigwam Hill, at the Hamlet. It is probable that not long after 
this year the tribe became entirely extinct. 

Ipswich is one of the three shire towns in Essex county. The 
principal village is compactly built on both sides of Ipswich 
river, a large mill stream. A substantial stone bridge was built 
over this stream in 1764, having two arches. It was built at an 
expense of £1000, and named Choate Bridge, from the Hon. John 
Choate, one of the committee intrusted with its erection. There are 
three Congregational churches, one of which is Unitarian, and one 
Methodist. There is in the village a court-house, jail, a bank, 
incorporated in 1833, with a capital of ^100,000, and the Ipswich 
Female Seminary, incorporated in 1828. 

The central part of the village is uneven and rocky. The 
engraving shows the appearance of the Congregational church, 
court-house, and part of the Female Seminary, as seen from a 
building on the western side of open ground, or common, in the 
central part of the place. 

The manufacture of thread and silk lace was formerly carried on 
here to a great extent. As early as 1790, about 42,000 yards were 
made annually. The Boston and Ipswich Lace Factory was in- 
corporated in 1824, and the " New England Lace Factory" in 

26 



192 



IPSWICH 




South-west view in Ipswich, (central part.) 

1833 ; both have ceased operation, and the bnsmess has dechned. 
There is a cotton factory in the village, with 3000 spindles. Value 
of cotton goods manufactured in 1837, ^50,000. The value of 
boots and shoes manufactured in 1837 was $46,000. Population 
of the town, 2,855. Distance, 12 miles from Salem, 10 from New- 
buryport, and 27 from Boston. 

The following, extracted from the town records of Ipswich, and 
other sources, is taken from Mr. Felt's History of Ipswich, published 
in 1834. 

1642. " Whosoever kills a wolf is to have and the skin, if he nail the head np 

at the meeting-house, and give notice to the constables. Also for the better destroying 
or fraying away wolves from the town, it is ordered, that 1st day of 7th mo., every 
householder whose estate is rated £500, and upward, shall keep a sufficient mastive 
dog; or £100 to £500, shall provide a sufficient hound or beagle, to the intent that 
they be in readiness to hunt and be employed for the ends aforesaid." 

Ifi48. " The heads of wolves, in order to receive the premiums, must be brought 
to the constable and buried." Josselyn infomis us, 1663, how such animals are taken. 
" Four mackerel hooks are bound with a brown thread, and then some wool is wrapped 
round them and they are dipped into melted tallow, till they be big and roimd as an 
egg. This thing, thus prepared, is laid by some dead carcass which toles the wolves. 
It is swallowed by them, and is the means of their being taken." Down to 1757, it 
was a common thing to hear them commence their howl soon after sunset ; when it wafi 
very dangerous to go near the woods. 

1642. The " Seven men" are to see that children, neglected by their parents, are 
employed, learned to read and " understand the principles of religion and the capital 
laws of this country," and, if necessary, be bound out to service. 

1661. As an inhabitant of Ipswich, living at a distance, absented himself wth his 
wife from public worship, the General Court empower the seven men to sell his farm, 
so that they may live nearer the sanctuary and be able more conveniently to attend on 
its religious services. Individuals are appointed to keep order in the meeting-house. 

1670. Constables are instructed to prevent young persons from being out late in the 
evening, especially Sabbath, lecture, and training-day evenings. 1672. Laborers are 
forbidden to have intoxicating liquors. 1678. All persons in town are required to 
•have some employment. 1681. Single persons, who are under no government, are 
ordered to put themselves under the care of some head of a family. Daniel Weldron 
is required to return to his wife according to law. An inhabitant is complained of by 
a. tything man becaiise he had a servant many years and had not taught him to read. 

1667. A man of this place is prosecuted for digging up the bones of the Sagamore, 
.und for currying his .>cull on a pole. 



LYNN. 193 

The first Congregational church was organized in 1634, the same 
year the town was incorporated. The first regular pastor was 
Rev. Nathaniel Ward, who was born at Ipswich, England, and 
was a preacher near London. Having expressed himself against 
the " Book of Sports," and agamst some of the ceremonies of the 
church of England, he was suspended and required to make a 
public recantation. Rather than comply, he forsook his country 
and came to this. He arrived in 1634, and soon took charge of 
the Ipswich church. He appears to have possessed much legal 
knowledge, and aided the legislature of Massachusetts colony in 
forming their laws. He returned to England, where he died, 1653, 
aged 83. In 1647 he published the " Simple Cobbler of Agaimm," 
a satirical and witty performance. Besides this he published a 
number of other works. Nathaniel Rogers and John Norton were 
the next ministers. Mr. Rogers was a descendant of the mar- 
tyr ; he came to New England in 1636, and died in 1655. Mr. 
Norton and Mr. Rogers were settled in 1638. Mr. Norton was an 
able writer and a man of great influence in the colony. He died 
in 1663, aged about fifty-seven. Rev. William Hubbai'd was 
settled here in 1656 ; he was born in England. In 1677 his first 
historical work received the approbation of the colonial licensers, 
and was soon published in Boston. It contained " Narrative of 
the Troubles with the Indians in New England in 1676 and 1677, 
with a Supplement concerning the War with the Pequods in 1637, 
and a Table and Postscript ; also, a Narrative of the Troubles with 
the Indians from Piscataqua to Pemaquid. ' The same book was 
licensed in London, and was printed there under the title, " Present 
State of New England." What he thus gave to the public was after- 
wards thrown into the present form of his ''''Indian TFars." This 
history was long under the supervision of an intelligent com- 
mittee appointed by the general court. In 1682 the legislature 
voted him £50 for his History of New England, and the next year 
they order half this sum to be paid him now if "he procure a 
fayre coppie to be written, that it be fitted for the presse." Such a 
copy was obtained, and was amended by his own hand. The 
Massachusetts Historical Society, aided by a liberal donation from 
the general court, had it printed in a volume distinct from those of 
their Collections, which contain it, in 1815. Mr. Hubbard died in 
1704, aged 83. 



LYNN. 

The town of Lynn, formerly Sangust, receix'^ed its present name 
in 1637. The name was given in respect to Mr. Whiting, Avho 
came from the town of Lynn Regis, or King's Lynn, in Norfolk, 
England. The record of the court on this occasion consists of only 
four words, " Saugust is called Lin." " The Indian name of the 
river which forms part of the western boundary of the town is 
Saugus. The easterji extremity was called Swampscot, which 



194 LYNN. 

name it still retains. Nahant, an Indian word signifying an 
island, is the original name of the peninsula which has become so 
celebrated. Lynn is the oldest town excepting Salem in Essex 
county, and since its settlement, in 1629, nine other towns have 
been settled from it, viz. Saugus, Lynnfield, Reading, South Read- 
ing, Sandwich, and Yarmouth ; Hampton and Amherst in New 
Hampshire ; and Southampton on Long Island. The first white 
inhabitants of the town were Edmund Ingalls and his brother, 
Francis Ingalls. Edmund Ingalls came from Lincolnshire, in Eng- 
land, to Lynn in 1629. He was a farmer, and settled in the east- 
ern part of the town, near a small pond, in Fayette street. The 
spot where he resided is still pointed out by his descendants. The 
brother of Edmund was a tanner, and lived at Swampscot. He 
built his tannery on Humfrey's brook, where it is crossed by 
a stone bridge. The vats were tilled up in 1825. This was the 
first tannery in New England. The emigrants found the place 
inhabited by a tribe of Indians of a great nation, called A berginians. 
Their settlements extended from Charles river to the Merrimac, 
The name of the sachem who formerly governed them was Nane- 
pashemet, or the New Moon, who was killed about 1619. The 
government was continued by his queen, called " Squaw Sachem." 
Most of the tribes in JMassachusetts were subject to her. She had 
a second hus.band in 163.5, whose name was VVappacowet. Mon- 
towampate, son of Nanepashemet, sachem of the Saugus Indians, 
lived near the eastern end of the beach on Sagamore Hill, and had 
the government of Lynn and Marblehead. The proprietor of Na- 
hant was an Indian chief called by the English " Duke William," 
more commonly " Black Will." He was killed by some of the 
whites in 1633. The following is taken from Mr. Lewis' History 
of Lynn, published in 1829; a well-written work, full of interest- 
ing details respecting the history of this town. 

The first settlers of Lynn were principally farmers, and possessed a Iqrge stock of 
horned cattle, sheep, and goats. For several years, before the land was divided and 
the fields fenced, the cattle were fed in one drove, and guarded by a man, who, from 
his employment, was called a hayward. The sheep, goals, and swine were kept on 
Nahant, where they were tended by a shepherd. Nahant seems to have been sold 
several times, to different individuals, by Black William, who also gave it to the plan- 
tation for a sheep pasture. A f^nce of rails, put near together, was made across the 
reach near Nahant, to keep out the wolves, as it is said those animals do not climb. 
When the people were about building this fence, Captain Turner said, " Let us make 
haste, lest the country should take it from us." In autumn the swine were let loose in 
the woods, that they miglit fatten themselves on nuts and acorns. The people ol 
Lynn, for some years, seem to have lived in the most perfect democracy. They had 
town meetings every three months, for the regulation of their public affairs. They 
cut their wood in common, and drew lots for the grass in the meadows and marshes. 
These proved very serviceable to the farmers, in furnishing them with sustenance for 
iheir cattle, wliich was probably the reason why there were more farmers at Lynn 
than in any other of the early settlements. Mr. Johnson says, "The chiefest corn 
they planted, before they had Plowes, was Indian grain. — And let no man make a 
jest at Pumpkins, tor with this Ibod the Lord was pleased to feed his people to their 
good content, till Come and Cattell were increased." Their corn at the first was 
pounded with a wooden or stone pestle, in a mortar made of a large log, hollowed out 
lit one end. They also cultivated large fields of barley and wheat. Much of the for- 
mer was made into malt for beer, which they drank instead of ardent spirit. They 
f q,ised considerable quantities of llax, which was rotted in one ,of the ponds thenco 



I. Y N N 



195 



called the Flax Pond. Their first houses were rude structures, with steep roofs, covered 
with thatch, or small bundles of sedge or straw, laid one over another. The fire- 
places were made of rough stones, and the chimneys of boards, or short sticks, cross- 
ing each other, and plastered inside with clay. Beside the haste and necessity which 
prevented the construction of more elegant habitations, the people who had wealth 
were advised to abstain from all superfluous expense, and to reserve their moiicy for 
the pubUc use. Even the deputy governor, Mr. Dudley, was censured for wainscot- 
ting his house. In a few years, houses of a better order began to appear. They 
were built with two stories in front, and sloped down to one in the rear. The Avindows 
were small, and opened outward on hinges. They consisted of very small diamond 
panes, set in sashes of lead. The fire-places were large enough to admit a four-foot 
log, and the cliiUlren might sit in the corners and look up at the stars. On whichevei 
side of the road the houses were placed, they uniformly faced the south, that the sua 
at noon might "shine square." Thus each house formed a domestic sun-dial, by 
which the good matron, in the absence of the clock, could tell, in fair weather, when 
to call her husband and sons from the field — for the industrious people of Lynn, then 
as well as now, always dined exactly at twelve. It was the custom of the first settlers 
to wear long beards, and it is said that " some had their overgrown beards so frozen 
together, that they could not get their strong water bottells into their mouths." In 
very hot weather, " servants were priviledged to rest from their labours, from ten of 
the clocke till two." The common address of men and women was Goodman and 
Goodwife ; none but those who sustained some office of dignity, or belonged to some 
respectable family, were complimented with the title of Master. In writing they seem 
to have had no capital F, and thus in the early records we find two small ones used 
instead ; and one m with a dash over it stood for two. The following song, which 
appears to have been wi-itten about this time, exhibits some of the peculiar customs 
and modes of thinking among the early settlers. 



The place where we live is a wilderness wood, 
Where ^ass is much wanling that's fruitful and good : 
Our mountains and hills, and our valleys below, 
Being commonly covered with ice and with snow. 

And when the north-west wind with violence blows, 
Then every man pulls his cap over his nose ; 
But if any is hardy and will it withstand, 
He forfeits a finger, a foot, or a hand. 

But when the spring opens we then take the hoe, 
And make the ground ready to plant and to sow ; 
Our corn being planted, and seed being sown, 
The worms destroy much before it is grown. 

And while it is growing some spoil there is made 
By birds, and by squirrels, that pluck up the blade; 
And when it is come to full corn in the ear, 
It is often destroyed by raccoon and by deer. 

And now our old garments begin to grow thin, 
And wool is much wanted to card and to spin ; 
If we can get a garment to cover without, 
Our other ingarments ara clout upon clout. 

Our clothes we brought with us are apt to be torn, 
They need to be clouted soon after they're worn ; 
But clouting our garments, they hinder us nothing. 
Clouts double are warmer than single whole clothing 



If fresh meat be wanting to fill up our dish, 

We have carrots, and pumpkins, and turnips, and 

fish; 
And if there's a mind for a delicate dish, 
We haste to the clam banks, and there we catch 

fish. 

'Stead of pottage, and puddings, and custards, and 

pies, 
Our turnips and parsnips are common supplies; 
We have pumpkins at morning, and pumpkins at 

noon. 
If it was not for pumpkins we should be undone. 

If barley be wanting to make into malt, 

We must then be contented, and think it no fatdt ; 

For we can make liquor, to sweeten our lips, 

Of pumpkins, and parsnips, and walnut tree chips. 

Now while some are going, let others be coming, 
For while liquor's boiling it must have a scumming; 
But I will not blame them, for birds of a feather, 
By seeking tlieir fellows, are flocking together. 

Then you whom the Lord intends hither to bring, 
Forsalie not the honey for fear of tlie sling; 
But bring both a quiet and contented mind. 
And all needful blessings you surely will find. 



The following are the names of some of the persons who appear 
to have been inhabitants of Lynn in 1630. 



Joseph Armitage, 
Allen Breed, 
Wm. Ballard, 
Nicholas Brown, 
Edward Baker, 
Samuel Bennet, 
Nicholas Brown, 
Thomas Coldam, 
Clement Coldam, 
Thomas Chadwell, 



William Cowdrey 
Henry Collins, 
Thomas Dexter, 
William Dixey, 
Robert Driver, 
George Farr, 
Jeremy Fitch, 
Edmund Farrington, 
Adam Hawkes, 
Edward Holyoke, 



Edward Howe, 
Lieut. Danl. HowC; 
Ephraim Howe, 
WiUiam Halhorne, 
Thomas Hudson, 
Christopher Hussey, 
Christopher Lyndsey, 
Thomas Newhall, 
Robert Potter, 
John Ramsdell, 



John Taylor, 
Capt. Ed. Tomlins, 
Timothy Tomlins, 
Capt. Nath. Turner, 
Capt. Rich. Walker 
Thomas Willis, 
John White, 
William Witter, 
John Wood, 
WiUiam Wood, 



196 



LYNN, 



The following persons were also at Lynn as early as 1637, 



Abraham Belknap, 
Edmund Bridges, 
Jenkin Davis, 
Joseph Floyd, 
Christopher Foster, 
George Fraile, 
Nathaniel Handforth, 
Thomas Ivory, 
Richard Johnson, 
Thomas Keysar, 
Thomas Laighton, 
Richard Longley, 
John Pierson, 
Richard Roolton, 



Richard Sadler, 
William Andrews, 
Richard Brooks, 
Goodman Cox, 
Goodman Crosse, 
John Deacon, 
John Elderkin, 
William George, 
Francis Godson, 
Henry Gaines, 
John Gillow, 
Thomas Halsye, 
James Hewes, 
Robert Hewes, 



William Hewes, 
Jeremy Howe, 
John Hudson, 
Samuel Hutchinson, 
Thomas Hutchinson, 
Philip Kneeland, 
Thomas Paine, 
Robert Parsons, 
Thomas Parker, 
Joseph Pell, 
Nicholas Poor, 
Wm. Partridge, 
Thomas Read, 
Isaac Robinson, 



Jarett Spenser, 
Michael Spenser, 
Josias Stanbury, 
George Taylor, 
William Thorn, 
Mr. Walhin, 
George Welbye, 
Richard Wells, 
Edward West, 
Thomas Wheeler, 
Nathanl. Whiteridge, 
John Humfrey, 
Edward Howe. 



Lynn in its present limits extends nearly six miles on the sea- 
coast, on the northern shore of Massachusetts Bay, and extends 




Western entrance of the central part of Lynn. 

about four miles into the woods. From the center of the southern 
side a beach of sand projects into the sea nearly two miles, and 
terminates in a peninsula, called Nahant. The whole town con- 
tains 9,360 acres. The south-eastern part is a tract of excellent 
salt marsh : and the northern part is a range of wood-land and 
pasture. The inhabited part of the town is an extensive plain, 
gently undulating toward the extremities into graceful elevations, 
skirted on the south by the sea, and defended on the north by a 
range of rocky hills. A considerable degree of attention is given 
to agriculture. The farmers have much improved their lands by 
cultivation, and by procuring sea weed and rock weed from the 
beaches for manure. These substances have been freely mingled 
with the soil, and since their use the crops of English grass have 
been increased in nearly a tenfold proportion. The other princi- 
pal products are Indian corn, barley, and the common vegetable 
productions. The cold and damp sea breezes, which frequently 
prevail, have an unfavorable effect, and the soil appears to be 
uncongenial to the finer sorts of grain. 



LYNN. 197 

The foregoing view was taken at the western entrance of Lynn. 
The entrance to the common is seen on the right. This is a level 
tract of about twenty acres. A handsome circular pond has been 
recently dug near the center, and other improvements have been 
made. The village is principally built on a plain, back of which 
are hills composed of rough rocks, partially covered with bushes 
and trees. On the side next the ocean and on Saugus river are salt 
marshes. To the south-west of the village the turnpike from Bos- 
ton to Salem passes over an extensive tract of marsh land. There 
are 8 churches in this place, 3 Methodist, 2 Congregational, 1 for 
Friends, 1 Baptist, and 1 Universalist. There are two banks, the 
Lynn Mechanics Bank, incorporated in 1814, and the Nahant 
Bank, incorporated in 1832, each with a capital of $150,000. 
There is a savings bank, incorporated in 1826, and three insu- 
rance companies. The Lynn Academy, an incorporated institution, 
was first opened in 1805. A newspaper is published here. Lynn 
is 5 miles from Salem, and 9 from Boston. Population, 9,323. In 
1837 tliere were manufactured in this town 2,220 pairs of boots, 
2,543,929 pairs of shoes; value of boots and shoes, $1,689,793; 
males employed, 2,631 ; females, 2,554. There were 6 morocco 
leather manufactories ; value of leather manufactured, $153,000 ; 
males employed, 90 ; females, 16. There were 5 vessels employed 
in the whale fishery, and 14 in the cod and mackerel fishery. A 
manufactory of India rubber cloth has been recently established. 

"Nahant is a peninsula on the south of Lynn. In the beauty and sublimity of its 
scenery, combined with its pecuhar advantages of health and pleasure, it is not sur- 
passed hy any place on the coast of America. It consists of two, elevated, rock-engir- 
dled islands, called Great and Little Nahants, united together by a beach, half a 
mile in length, and connected to the main land by another beach, one mile and a 
half in length. From the center of the town, the Long beach projects directly into the 
sea, and is washed by the waves of the great ocean on the eastern side, and on the 
western by the waters of the harbor. It is a gently curving bar, of fine, silvery, gray 
sand, rising so high in the center as generally to prevent the waves from passing over 
it, and almost imperceptibly sloping to the water on each side. It is unbroken by land, 
or rock, or shrub, for its whole extent, and the broad ridge of dry sand, which passes 
through its center, is interspersed with shells, and pebbles, and fragments of coral and 
other substances, which the storms have cast upon it, among which the white gull lays 
her spotted eggs, in little cavities scooped in the sand, and, soaring overhead, startles 
the traveller by her shrilling shriek. The portion of the beach which is left by the 
tide, is broad enough for fifty carriages to pass abreast, and presents a perfectly 
smooth surface of pure, line sand, beaten hard and polished by the constant breaking 
of the waves, on which the horse's hoof leaves no print, and the wheel passes, with- 
out sound or trace, like a velvet roller on marble. The hard sand frequently retains 
sufficient water, for an hour after the tide has left it, to give it the appearance of glass, 
in which objects are reflected as in a mirror. 

********** 

" Little Nahant is a hill, consisting of two graceful elevations, rising eighty feet above 
the sea, and defended by battlements of rock, from twenty to sixty feet in height. 
It is about half a mile in length, and contains forty-two acres, seventeen of which are 

in good cultivation The outer portion of the peninsula, called Great 

Nahant, is about two miles in length, and in some parts half a mile broad, containing 
tour hundred and sixty-three acres. The surface is uneven, rising into elevations, 
from forty to one hundred feet above the level of the sea. The shores are extremely 
irregular, being composed, in many places, of huge precipitous rocks, in some places 
resembling iron, rising from twenty to sixty feet above the tide, with a great depth of 
water below ; and in others, stretching out into beautiful beaches, or curving into 
drlightful recesses and coves, filled with pebbles, of every variety of form and color, 



198 



LYNN. 



from burning rc.l to stainless white. The whole outline presents the most agreeable 
interchange of scener}^, from the low beach, that glistens beneath the thin edge of the 
wave, to lofty precipices, and majestic cliffs that rise 

Like moonlight battlements, and towers decayed by time. 




Nahant Hotel, Long Beach, Lynn. 

" Nahant is much visited by persons for the improvement of health, and by parties of 
pleasure, from the neighboring towns, for whom it furnishes every accommodation. 
Two steamboats are constantly running from Boston during the pleasant season, but 
a ride by land, over the beaches, is much more delightful. A spacious and elegant 
hotel has been erected, of stone, near the eastern extremity. It contains nearly a 
hundred rooms, and is rurrounded by a double piazza, commanding the most delight- 
ful prospects. Several other hotels and boarding-houses are situated in the village, 
and aboiu twent}' beautiful cottages, the summer residence of gentlemen of fortune, are 
scattered over the peninsula. There is also a neat stone building erected for a chapel, 
%vhich serves for a library and school-room." — Lewis' Hist, of Lynn. 

The cliurch at Lynn was gathered in June, 1632, and was the 
fifth in Massachnsetts. The first meeting-lionse was a plain small 
bnilding, witliout bell or cupola, and stood on the eastern side of 
Shepard street. It was placed in a small hollow, that it might be 
the better sheltered from the winds, and was approached by descend- 
ing several steps. Before this, part of the people of Lynn attended 
public worship at Salem. Rev. Stephen Batchelor, the first min- 
ister, on his arrival in Lynn in 1632, immediately commenced the 
exerci.se of his ministerial duties, Avithout installation. About four 
months afterwards a complaint was made of some irregularities in 
his conduct. He was arraigned before the court at Boston, Oct. 
3d, when the following order was passed : " Mr. Bachelr- is re- 
quired to forbearc excerciseing his giftes as pastr- or teacher pub- 
liquely in of- Patent, unlesse it be to those he brought with him, for 
his contempt of authority, and till some scandals be removed." 
This v.^as the commencement of a series of difficulties which agi- 
tated the unhappy church for several years. 

The Rev. Samuel Whiting arrived from England in Jime, and 
was installed pastor of the church in November, 1636. The next 
year Rev. Thomas Cobbet who also came from England, was 



LYNNFIELD. IQQf 

installed a colleague pastor with Mr. Whiting. Mr. W. was styled 
the pastor, as being the principal, and Mr. Gobbet was called 
teacher, an office in some degree subordinate, though his talents 
were superior. Rev. .Teremiah Shepard was the first minister of 
Lynn who was born and educated in America. He was ordained 
in 1680, and died in 1720, having preached at Lynn forty years. 
He was distinguished for his unaffected piety and his untiring 
exertions for the spiritual welfare of his people. The following 
epitaph was transcribed from his grave-stone with difficulty ; hav- 
ing become greatly obliterated by the hand of time, for a periocl 
of more than one hundred years. 

Elijah*s mantle drops, the prophet dies, 

His eartlily mansion quits, and mounts the skies* 

^^ i So Shepard's gone. 

His precious dust, death's prey, indeed is here, 
But's nobler breath 'mong Seraplis does appear; 
He joins adoring crowds about the throne. 
He's conquered all, and now he wears the cro\^^^. 



LYNNFIELD. 



This town Avas originally called Lynn End, having been 
granted to Lynn soon after the settlement of the town. A meeting- 
house was built in 1715. It was incorporated into a district in 
1782. In 1814 it became a separate town. The town abounds 
with wild and romantic scenery, its surface being broken and 
uneven, and its hills clothed with dense forests. Farming is the 
principal employment of the inhabitants. In 1837 there were 100 
pairs of boots and 54.000 shoes manufactured, valued at $40,250; 
males employed, 93 ; females, 80. Population, 674. Distance, 
12 miles from Boston. 

Tlie Congregational church in this place was the second of 
Lynn, was formed 1720. The first pastor. Rev. Nathaniel Spar- 
hawk, settled here at the formation of the church; he resigned 
1731. He was succeeded by the Rev. Stephen Chase in 1731, 
and resigned 1755. His successor was the Rev. Benjamin Adams, 
who was settled in 1755, died 1777. He was succeeded by the 
Rev. Joseph Motley in 1782, wlio died in 1821. The next was the 
Rev. Joseph Searl, who was settled here in 1824, resigned in 1827. 
There is also a society of Methodists in the town. 

The following is from the inscription on the monument of Mr. 
Daniel Townsend in this place, who was killed in Lexington, 
April 19th, 1775. He was born in 1738. 

Lie, valiant Townsend, in the peaceful shades, we trust 

Immortal honors mingle A\ith thy dust. 

What though tliy body struggle in its gore-? 

So did tliy Savior's body long before ; 

And as he raised his own by power divine, 

So the same power shall also quicken thine, 

And in eternal glory mayst thou shine ! 

27 



200 



M A N C M fi o 



MANCHESTER. 

Manchester was once known by the name of Jeffrey's Greeks 
and formed a part of Salem. Upon the petition of several of the 
inhabitants it was incorporated, in 1645, by its present name. 
The surface of the township is rocky and uneven, and in many 
places is covered with extensive forests. Here is found the Mag- 
nolia, a low tree, bearing many beautiful and sweet-scented flowers. 
Here is a variety of soil, which is in a good state of culture. The 
Ashing business was commenced at this place at a very early pe- 
riod, but of late years this business has somewhat declined. Some 
of the most enterprising ship-masters of Boston and vicinity are 
natives of this town. There is about 1000 tons of shipping em- 
ployed. The vessels are of small size. The depth of water will 
not alloAv vessels exceeding 120 tons to come up to the town. The 
harbor is good, and aflbrds anchorage for vessels of any size. 




South-western view of Manchester. 



There is a Congregational society here, Avhich was gathered in 
1716, under the ministry of the Rev. Amos Cheever. Before this 
year no church records of Manchester are found. The Universal- 
ists have a small society, which was organized in 1S20. The busi- 
ness of making cabinet furniture is carried on here with great 
activity, employing 150 men or more. In 1837 there were 12 manu- 
factories of chairs and cabinet ware ; value of articles manufac- 
tured, $84,500 ; hands employed, 120. There were 14 vessels 
employed in the cod and mackerel fishery, employing 65 hands. 
Population. 1,346. 

The above shows the appearance of Manchester village as it is 
entered from the south-west upon the Beverly road. Coasters from 
60 to 70 tons burthen can come up to this village, which consists of 
upwards of eighty dwelling-houses, built compactly together. Dis- 
tance, 7 miles from Gloucester, 9 from Salem, and 23 from Boston. 

The Ibllowing mscriptions are copied from monuments in the 
grave-yard in this place : 



MARBLEHEAD. 201 

la memory of Benjamin Tappan, late pastor of tlie clmrcli in Manchester, who ex- 
pired May 6, 1790, in the 70th year of his age, and 45tli year of his ministry. He was 
a sincere and exemplary christian, a tender husband and parent, a judicious and sound 
divine, a prudent and faithful minister. 

Oh ever honor'd, ever dear, adieu, 
How many tender names are lost in you. 
Keep safe, tomb, thy precious sacred trust, 
Till life divine awake his sleeping dust. 

Colo'- Benj-''- Marston lies here, who died May 22, 1754, being 57 years &c 3 mo. 
old. Art thou curious, reader, to know wh.it sort of man he was? Wait till the final 
day of Retribution, and then thou mayest be satisfied. 



Sacred to the memory of Capt. John Allen, who died Aug. 27, 1834, aged 59 years. 
Though Boreas' blasts and Neptune's waves I Now here at anchor I do lie, 
Have toss'd me to and fro, | With many of our fleet, 

In spite of both, by God's decree, I In hope again for to set sail 

I harbor here below. | My Savior Christ to meet 



MARBLEHEAD 



Marblehead was originally a part of Salem, from which it was 
detached and incorporated as a distinct town in 1649. At this 
time it contained 44 families, the heads of which were of the fol- 
lowing names : 

James Smith, Thomas Bowinge, Mr. Walton, John Deveroe, 

Rowland Smith, John Stacie, John Lyon, Abrm. Whitcare, 

Samuel Doliber, George Chine, Henry Stacie, John Bartoll, 

Edmund Nicholson, John Northy, William Chichester, Joseph Doliber 

Francis Nicholson, Nicholas Merrett, Samuel Corwithen, Robert Knight, 

John Gatchell, Thomas Pitman, Thomas Gray, John Bennett, 

William Barber, Timothy Allen, Richard Norman, F. J. Walsingham, 

David Thomas, Thomas Sams, John Peachy, John Norman, 

John Legg, Arthur Sanden, Richard Curtice, William Luckis, 

Peter Pitford, Isaac Allerton, John Hart, Chrisloph. Lattimore, 

Erasmus James, Moses Maverick, William Charles, John Goyt. 

The township is a rongh and very rocky* peninsula, extending 
between three and four miles into the sea, and it is inhabited prin- 
cipally on account of its convenience as a fishing port. The first 
settlers made their pitch on the eastern side of the town, taking 
advantage of a very good harbor, running north-east and south- 
west, and towards half a mile on an average. " At the south-west 
end of the harbor the town is connected with the Great Neck, so 
called, by a very narrow isthmus, separating the waters of Lynn 
bay from those of the harbor. About the year 1728, it was found 
that the sea was fast encroaching on the south-west side of this 
isthmus, so as to endanger the preservation and security of the har- 
bor. The government of tlie province at that time attended to the 
subject, as it respected not only the town in particular, but the 
trade of the province in general ; and ordered by an act the sum 

* As the celebrated Mr. Whitefield was entering the settlement late in the autumn, 
when no verdure was to be seen, he exclaimed, " Pray where do they bury their dead ?" 
It may be observed, that, notwithstanding the rough and forbidding aspect of the 
soil, it is very productive when cultivated. 



m2 



M A R B L K H E A B 



of £1,328 to be paid out of the public treasury for necessary re- 
pairs. It seems that about the year 1762 some necessary repairs were 
made. In the year 1790, ahhough the town had carefully endea- 
vored to secure^ support, and kxep the same in good repair, the go- 
vernment of the commonwealth of Massachusetts, considering the 
preservation of the said harbor was a matter of public concern, &c., 
granted a sum of £1000 to be raised by a lottery" for this purpose. 
About 1742 this town was authorized to erect a fortijEication for the 
defence of the place ; the government, it seems, having granted 
£690 for this purpose. In 1794 it was ceded to the United States 
by a vote of the town. The fortification which defends the har- 
bor is now called Fort Sewall. 




North-eastern vieiv of Marblehead from Fort Savall. 

The above is a north-eastern view of Marblehead taken from 
Fort Sewall. The harbor in front of the tov/n is a mile and a 
half long from north-east to south-west, and half a mile wide. It 
is formed by a narrow isthmus at the south-west that separates it 
from Lynn bay, and connects the town with Great Neck. It is 
deep and excellent, capable of being entered at all times by ships 
of the largest size, and would be one of the finest in the country, were 
it not for its exposure to storms, which often render its anchorage 
unsafe. In 1837 the town of Marblehead contained .5.549 inhabit- 
ants : with the exception of about twenty farmers and their families, 
they are comprised within the limits of one mile by one quarter. 
The village is quite novel in its appearance, being compact and 
very irregularly built, owing to the very uneven and rocky surface 
of the ground on which it is built. There are five handsome 
churches in this place, viz. 2 Congregational, 1 of which is Unita' 
rian, 1 Episcopal, 1 Methodist, and 1 Baptist. There are two 
banks, the " Marblehead Bank," incorporated in 1803, capital 
$120,000, and the " Grand Bank," incorporated in 1831, capitg-l 
^100,000 ; there Are two insurance companies, each with a capi- 
Jtal of $100,000. There is an academy, incorporated in 1792, and 



M A R n L E H E A D . 203 

has ever been a respectable and useful institution. Distance, 4 
miles from Salem, and 16 from Boston. The shipping owned here 
amounts to more than eight thousand tons. In 1837, there were 
55 vessels employed in the cod and mackerel fishery, the tonnage of 
which was 4(H)3 ; codfish caught, 49,403 quintals: mackerel caught, 
243 barrels ; 500 hands employed. In the same year were manu- 
factured 97 pairs of boots, and 1,025,824 pairs of shoes, the value 
of which was |;367,780; males employed, 503; females^ 655. 

In the Rev. Mr. Barnard's diary,* (early in the century, or before 
1720,) when speaking of this town, gives the following statement : 
"There was not a carpenter, a tailor, nor mason, nor butcher in 
the town : nor any thing of a market worth naming. They had 
their houses built by country workmen, and their clotlies made out 
of town, and supplied themselves with beef and pork from Boston, 
which drained the town of its money. Some years after, the town 
abounded with artificers, good workmen of every description, and 
the market had a full supply. At the time before mentioned, there 
was not one foreign vessel, although the town always possessed 
every advantage for a free and extensive navigation. The people 
contented themselves to be slaves to work in the mines, leaving it 
to the merchants of Salem, Boston, and Europe, to carry off the 
gains, by which means the town was poor and in debt : — so much 
were they involved in debt to the merchants of other places, that 
very few families, not more than twenty, were independent in their 
circumstances. They were generally a rude, swearing, drunken 
and fighting crew ; but as they increased in numbers they made 
improvements in social life, in virtue and good morals. By the 
middle of the century, the manners of the people were so much 
cultivated, as to be remarkable for their civilities, and especially 
for their hospitality to strangers. There were not only gentle- 
manlike families, and pious and well-behaved people in the town, 
but the very fishermen rose superior to the rudeness of former gene- 
rations. When they were persuaded by individuals of public 
spirit to send their fish to foreign markets, they soon became conver- 
sant with the mysteries of trade, they soon became sensible of the 
advantage they should reap by it. And while individuals grew 
rich, the town also received the benefit." 

" Mr. Joseph Swett, a young man of strict justice, of great Indus-- 
try, enterprising genius, quick apprehension, and firm resolution, 
but small fortune, was the first man who engaged in it. He sent 
a cargo to Barbadoes^ and from the profits of the voyage found 
that he increased his stock, and went on building vessels, till he 
was enabled to send vessels to Europe, loading them with fish, and 
pointing out to others the path to riches. The more promising young 
men of the town follow cd his example ; and from this small beginr 
ning, Marblehead became one of the first trading towns of the Bay. 
In the year 1766, there were between thirty and forty ships, brigs, 
snows, and topsail schooners engaged in foreign trade." 

* Coll. Mass. Jiist. Soc, vol. viii, 



204 MARBLEHEAD. 

About 1770 Marblehead was supposed to contain a greater num- 
ber of inhabitants than any other town of the province, Boston ex- 
cepted. During the revokitionary war this place sutfered severely, 
and the business of the place was almost wholly destroyed. The 
inhabitants were firm in the cause of American liberty, and this 
place alone furnished, of its own inhabitants, for the public service, 
one entire regiment, completely officered and manned. The value 
of this regiment at that trying period, composed of men inured to 
fatigue and danger, and not wasted by sickness in any one instance, 
is best determined by a recollection of their patience, bravery, and 
effective service. Captain .Fames Mugford, an inhabitant of this 
place, rendered an important service to the American army during 
the Revolution, by capturing, at a critical juncture, a British ship 
just arrived in the vicinity of Boston, richly laden with arms, am- 
munition, and other warlike stores. He was killed the same day he 
made the capture, January 12th, 1776, in attempting to return from 
Boston to Marblehead, while defending his little privateer from the 
attack of some boats sent from the British men-of-war riding at 
Nantasket road. Their object was to take him at the moment his 
vessel run ashore on a point of land, which makes the entrance of 
Pudding Point Gut. Captain Mugford fought for a considerable 
time. At length, one of the boats attempting to board him, he 
sprung to the railing of his vessel in order the better to repel the 
enemy ; he was mortally wounded by a pistol-shot. Falling back, 
one of his crew anxiously inquired if he was wounded. He said, 
" Ye5, but doiit let the enemy know my situation, and if I die act as 
if I were alive and were still commanding f after which he immedi- 
ately expired. His brave seamen made dreadful havoc of the limbs 
and lives of the enemy, beat them off, and got into Marblehead, 
where great respect was shown to the remains of Capt. Mugford. 

The Rev. Samuel Cheever, the first minister of Marblehead, was 
-ordained in 1684, having preached here sixteen years previous to 
his settlement. He died in 1724, aged eighty-five. He preached 
upwards of half a century without being taken off from his labors 
one Sabbath ; when he died, the lamp of life fairly burnt out, for 
he felt no pain even in his expiring moments. He was succeeded 
by Mr. John Barnard, who had been previously an assistant pastor 
with Mr. Cheever. He died in 1770, and was succeeded by Mr. 
William Whitwell. Mr. Ebenezer Hubbard succeeded Mr. Whit- 
well, was ordained in 1783, and died in 1800. Mr. Samuel Dana 
was ordained pastor in 18U1. The second church in Marblehead 
was formed when Mr. Barnard was assistant pastor with Mr. 
Cheever. Mr. Edward Holyoke, afterward president of Harvard 
college, appears to have been the first minister. He was chosen 
president in 1737. His successor in the ministry at Marblehead 
was Mr. Simon Bradstreet, who was ordained in 1738. Mr. Brad- 
street was succeeded by Mr. Isaac Story, in 1772. One of the first 
Episcopal societies in Massachusetts was planted in Marblehead. 
Their first minister was Mr. William Shaw; the next Mr. David 
Monsaiu, who was succeeded by Mr. George Pigot and Alexander 



MARBLEHEAD. 205 

Malcolm. Mr. Peter Bours, their fifth minister, was highly es- 
teemed by Christians of all denominations. He was succeeded by 
Mr. Joshua Wingate Weeks. For several years after the Revolu- 
tion, the church was destitute. Mr. Thomas Oliver was their next 
minister ; he was succeeded by Mr. AV^illiam Harris. The next 
clergyman was Mr. James Bowers, who was ordained in Trinity 
church, in Boston, May 25, 1802, by the hands of the Rev. Bishop 
Bass. In 1789 a number of the inhabitants of Marblehead erected 
a meeting-house for those "whose opinions differed from the 
opinions of their neighbors." In 1800 a meeting-house was built 
for the Methodist denomination. The Baptist society was estab- 
lished in 1803. 

Jolin Glover, a brigadier general in the American army in the 
revolutionary war, was a native of this town. 

He had the command of a reg^iment from the beginning of the revolutionary contest 
He had the honor, with his brave otiRcers and soldiers, of forming the advance part ot 
the army which, in a bold and intrepid manner, crossed the Delaware in the night of 
the 25th of December, 1776, at a most inhospitable and hazardous juncture, and added 
much to the martial glory of the American forces by capturing, at Trenton, a thousand 
Hessians, under the immortal Washington. This propitious event inspired the conti 
nental army Avith confidence of the final happy result, and was followed with victories 
in every quarter, till Heaven sanctioned the justice of the American appeal with the dis- 
comfiture of the enemy and the freedom of the United States. 

General Glover had the honor of conducting Burgoyne's army, after its surrender, 
through the New England states ; and, ui various instances, during the war, he had 
the warm approbation and unqualified applause of his commander-in-chief. A want 
of documents prevents the aulhoi- of this work from paying a more full tribute of res- 
pect to the memory of one of the most brave, bold, and persevering officers of the 
revolutionary army. He, therefore, cannot better close this article, than with an 
extract from a letter, addressed to General Glover by General Washington, dated 
Morris, 2(3 April, 1777, soon after his appointment to the command of a brigade. 

" Diffidence in an officer is a good marii, because he will always endeavor to bring 
himself up to what he conceives to be the full line of his duty ; but, I think I may 
tell you Anthout flattery, that I know of no man better qualified than j'ou to con- 
duct a brigade. You have activity and industry, and as you very well know the duty 
of a colonel, you know how to exact that duty from others." — Alden^s Coll. vol. ill. 

'^ Hon. Elbridge Gerry, one of the signers of the Declaration of 
Independence, was born in Marblehead, July 17, 1744, and from 
liis first election as representative of his native town in the legis- 
lature, he continued in public life, almost without intermission, fil- 
ling the most important ofiices, such as that of a member of con- 
gress, ambassador to France, governor of the commonwealth, and 
vice president of the United States, till his decease. His spirit 
was nourished by close communion with the Adamses, Hancock, 
Warren, <fcc On the night preceding the battle of Lexington, he 
narrowly escaped capture as one of the ' rebel ' committee of the 
])rovincial congress. In 1813, as he was proceeding to the senate 
chamber at Washington, ' a sudden extravasation of blood took 
place upon the lungs, and terminated his life v/ithin twenty 
minutes, almost without a struggle, and apparently without pain.' " 
- -Essex Memorial. 



The following in.scriptions are from monuments in this place : 



206 M E T H U E N . 

In memory of the rev. John Barnard, a faithful pastor of the first church in Mar- 
blehead. He was a learned divine, a judicious and profitable preacher, who has left 
excellent performances to his and their posterity. He exhibited a bright example of 
piety and christian virtue, was a promoter of peace and friendship, an ornament to the 
church and town, and after a long life spent in the service of Christ and souls, on the 
24th of Jan. 1770, in the 54 year of his ministry, and the 89 of his age, fell asleep in 
Jesus. 

Memoriae sacrum rev. domini Johanxis Barnard, primse Christi ecclesise apud Mar- 
blehead pastoris fidelis. Theologus erat vere eruditus, concionator admodum sapiens 
utilisque. Suis non solum quin et posteris monita reliquit. Exemplum pietatis ac 
christianse virtutis insigne, amicitise et pacis cultor, ecclesise et oppidi decus )nultos 
post labores Christi et animarum causa peractos hac vua, Januarii 24, 1770, et minis- 
terii 51 setatis que 89, placide decessit. 

Under this stone lies the body of the Rev. Peter Bouks, once minister of this church, 
which office, for the space of nine years, he discharged with faithfulness, teaching the 
doctrines of the gospel with plainness and fervency, illustrating the truth and reality 
of what he taught, by his own life, the goodness of which, joined with great candor, 
and unbounded benevolence o€ mind, obtained for him not only the most sincere love of 
his own people, but also the love of virtuous men of every persuasion. He died 24 Feb- 
ruary, 1762, aged 3(5 years. To his memory his people have erected this monument in 
testimony of his great worth and their sincere regards. 

Persuasion draws, example leads the mind ; 

Their double force compels, when meetly joined. 



METHUEN. 



The eastern part of this town was formerly a part of Haverhill. 
It was incorporated as a town in 1725. The soil near the Merri- 
mac, Avhich is the south-western boundary of the town, is not so 
good as that in the more northern part. The surface of the town- 
ship is broken into a variety of hills and valleys, and the soil may 
be in general considered as good. Spicket or Spiggot river, in its 
course from New Hampshire, centrally intersects and falls into the 
Merrimac. This little river has a fall of about thirty feet down a 
rocky precipice, and affords a plentiful supply of water for manu- 
facturing purposes. This has been improved, and there is now a 
flourishing village at this place, containing about 1,000 inliabitants, 
3 churches, 1 Baptist, 1 Congregational, and 1 Universalist. Me- 
thuen Falls village is situated about one mile south of the New 
Hampshire line. The engraving shows the appearance of the vil- 
lage as seen from the eastward. The Congregational church ap- 
pears on elevated ground in the distance on the extreme right ; the 
Baptist church, the largest in the village, is the nearest ; the Uni- 
\'ersalist church is seen beyond in the distance ; the large factory, 
built of brick, is seen on the extreme left, standing by the falls. 
Distance. 9 miles from Lowell, 9 from Haverhill, 5 from Andover, 
and 25 from Boston. A cotton factory was commenced here about 
1S12, by Stephen Minot, Esq. of Haverhill. This was burnt in 
1818, but was rebuilt soon after. A newspaper, the " Methuen 
Falls Gazette," was commenced here in Jan. 1835. A paper-mill was 
erected in this town in 1826. The following, relative to this town, 
is from the Statistical Tables, published by the state in 1837. Cot- 
ton mills 2 • cotton spindles, 4,400 ; cotton consumed, 527,899 lbs. ; 



MIDDLBTON 



207 




Eastuni ri'ir vf Mithurn Falls Villa gc 

cotton goods manufactured, 1.019,903 yards; value of the same, 
^190,000 ; males employed, 55 ; females, 225 ; capital invested, 
$180,000 ; sperm oil used by the manufacturers, 2. 750 gallons. 
Shoes manufactured, 211,300 pairs; value of the same, $159,225; 
males employed, 190; females, 167. Manufactories of hats, 5 ; 
hats manufactured, 48,000 ; value of hats, $23,000 ; males employ- 
ed, 36 ; females, 9. Paper-mills, 2 ; stock manufactured, 195 tons ; 
value of paper, $32,500. Value of piano forte frames, $10,000. 

The first church in this town was formed in 1729, and Rev. 
Christopher Sergeant was ordained the same year. He died in 
1790. Rev. Simon P. Williams, a colleague with Mr. Sergeant, was 
dismissed in 1791. Rev. Humphrey C. Perley, his successor, was 
ordained in 1795, and dismissed in 1815. Rev. Jacob W. Eastman, 
the next pastor, was settled in 1815, and retired in 1828. A second 
church was formed in 1766, and Rev. Eliphaz Chapman was or- 
dained in 1772. The second pastor was John H. Stephens, the 
third Josiah Hill. (The first and second churches were united 
from 1817 to 1830.) The Baptist church was formed in 1815, and 
Rev. Charles 0. Kimball was ordained pastor the n€xt year. The 
Universalist society was organized in 1824. A small Episcopal 
society was formed here in 1833. Population, 2.463. 



MIDDLETON. 

This town was incorporated in 1728. It was formed of the uni- 
ted corners of several adjoining towns. The first church was 
gathered here in 1729, and Rev. Andrew Peters, the first pastor, 
was settled the same year. The second pastor. Rev. Elias Smith, 
was settled in 1759. He died in 1792, and was succeeded by Rev. 
Solomon Adams in 1793. Rev. Ebenezer Hubbard, the next pastor, 
was settled in 1816 ; his successor, Rev. Forrest Jeflferds, was set 

28 



208 NEWBURY. 

tied in 1832. There is another society in this town, called the 

United Society. 

The snrface of the township is uneven, and the soil requires 
good management and great industry to render it productive. The 
inhabitants live scattered over the town, there being no village of 
importance. In 1837, there were 300 pairs of boots and 500 pairs 
of shoes manufactured, valued at $1,500; and one paper-mill, 
which manufactured 100 tons of stock ; value of paper, $35,000. 
Population, 671. Distance, 7 miles N. W. of Salem, 18 from New- 
buryport, and 20 N. of Boston. 



NEWBURY 



Newbury was originally one of the largest as well as one of the 
oldest towns in Massachusetts. "In 1633, arrived a number of 
people in the ship Hector, who settled at QKafcacanqiien. In May, 
1634, arrived Mr. Thomas Parker and Mr. James Noyes. Mr. 
Parker, aud about a hundred who came over with him, sat down 
at Ipswich, where he continued about a year, while Mr. Noyes 
preached at Medford. In May, 1635, some of the principal people 
of Ipswich petitioned the general court for liberty to remove to 
Quafcacanquen, which was granted, and the place incorporated by 
the name of Newbury. This was the tenth church gathered in 
the colony. Mr. Noyes was chosen teacher, and Mr. Parker pas- 
tor of the church." The first settlement was made on the banks 
of Parker river, which is about 8 miles north of Ipswich, and about 
4 south of the middle of Newburyport, on Merrimac river. Thence 
the settlements were soon extended westward up the river Parker 
about 4 or 5 miles to the falls, and northward to the Merrimac and 
the lands adjacent. 

The territorial limits of this town have been greatly reduced, and 
its wealth more than proportionably diminished, by the formation 
of the towns of Newburyport and West Newbury. Those parts 
of the town most compactly settled join on to Newburyport. That 
portion which lies on the south-east side contains about 1,100 peo- 
ple in a compact settlement, who are generally engaged in the fish- 
eries. There are 4 churches within the present limits of the town, 
and a cotton factory. In five years preceding 1837, there were 
built r:)7 vessels, the tonnage of which was 11,907; valued at 
$721,610; hands employed in ship-building, 136. Population, 
3,771. Distance from Boston, 31 miles. Plum Island, the greater 
part of which lies in this town, is mostly composed of sand. It is, 
however, esteemed a salutary resort for invalids in the summer 
season ; it is also a favorite haunt for pleasure parties. One cause 
of attraction is from the copious supply of beach plums which are 
found on the island in the autumn. 

Dummer Academy, in the limits of this town, is located in Byfield 
parish, and is the oldest institution of the kind in New England, 



NEWBURY. 209 

being founded by Lieut. Gov. Dummer, in 1756; it was not, how- 
ever, incorporated till Oct. 1782, which was subsequent to the in- 
corporation of Phillips Academy at Andover. It is richly endowed, 
and its location is retired, pleasant, and remarkably healthy. 

The following, relative to the ancient manner of building church- 
es, is from the appendix to Rev. .T. S. Popkins' Sermon, 1806. 

" October 5, 1698, the vote was passed to build the former meeting-house. April 22, 
1700, Sergeant Stephen Jaques, the builder, was ordered to hang the bell in the new 
turret. October 18, Col. Daniel Pierce, Esq. and Tristram CofTm, Esq. were impower- 
ed to procure a bell for the new meeting-house, of about 400 pounds weight. Decem- 
ber 16, 1700, the place of each man and woman was assigned, by a committee. The 
number of men placed was about 176. This appears to have been the time of occupy- 
ing the meeting-house. The body of the house was tilled with long seats. Contiguous 
to the wall were twenty pews. The spaces for the pews were granted to particular 
persons who appear to have been principals. Before the pulpit and deacons' seat was 
a large pew containing a table, where sat the chiefs of the fathers. The young people 
sat in the upper gallery, and the children on a seat in the alley fixed to the outside of 
the pews. The floor measured 60 and 50 feet. The roof was constructed with four 
gable ends or projections, one on each side, each containing a large window, which gave 
light to the upper galleries. The turret was on the center. The space within was open to 
the roof, Avhere was visible plenty of timber, with great needles and little needle^ point- 
ing downwards, which served at once for strength and ornament. There were many 
ornaments of antique sculpture and wainscot. It was a statel'f building in the day of" 
it, but it was not my lot to see it in all its ancient glory. Long ago a wall was spread 
overhead, which was dropping down, and the floor was occupied by pews. The roof 
made plain, the four very steep sides terminating in a platform, which supported a 
steeple " 

The following inscriptions are from monuments in this town : — 

A Resurrection to immortality — is here expected — for what M-as mortal — of the Rev- 
erend Mr. John Richardson, (once Fellow of Harvard Colledge, afterwards Teacher to 
the church at Newbury,) putt off Apr. 27, 1696, in the fiftieth year of his age. 

When Preachers dy the Rules the pulpit gave 
to live well, are still preached from the grave, 
The Faith and Life, which your dead Pastor taught 
in one grave now with him, Syrs bury not. 

Abi, viator ; A mortuo disce vivere ut moriturus, E. Terrio disce eogitare de Coelis.* 



Here lyes the Body of the Rev. Mr. Christopher Tappan, master of Arts, fourth 
Pastorof the First church in Newbury ; a gentleman of good Learning, conspicuous Pi- 
ety and virtue, shining both by his Doctrine and Life, skilled and greatly improv'd in 
the Practice of Physic and Surgery, who deceas'd July 23d, 1747, in the 76th year of 
his Age and the 51st year of his Pastoral oflice. 



Beneath are the remains of Rev. John Tucker D. D. Pastor of the first Church and 
Congregation in this town, who died March 22d, 1792, Etat. 73. Blessed with strong 
mental Powers, a liberal education, and an uncommon mildness of Temper, all directed 
and improved by that faith which purifies the heart, rendered Him dearly beloved in 
every relation in which he was placed, and more especially made him conspicuously- 
useful as a minister of the Gospel when meeting with peculiar Difliculties. He emi- 
nently complied with that direction of his Master to the first Preachers of his Gospel, 
Be ye wise as serpents and harmless as doves. As he lived a life of piety, he met 
with death with Serenely. By his doctrine and example he taught the humility and 
meekness, and at his death he exhibited the dignity and triumph, of the real Christian. 



* Which may be plainly translated : Go, traveller ; from the dead leam to hve, as 
one that must die ; from the earth leam to think of the heavens. 



2tflf NEWBURYPORT. 

NEWBURYPORT. 

This town is the smallest in its territorial limits of any in the 
commonwealth, containing but about six hundred and forty-seven 
acres. It was formerly the port of the town of Newbury, and was 
incorporated as a disthict town in 1764. Previous to the Revolu- 
tion, Newburyport was quite a commercial place, and the commerce 
with the French West Indies was constant and profitable. During 
the period of the Revolution "the people of this town signalized 
their patriotism and love of independence by consenting to the non- 
importation agreement, declaring their abhorrence of the stamp-act, 
and other arbitrary measures of the ministry, preparing the means 
of defence and warfare, resolving to support the Declaration of In- 
dependence with their lives and fortunes, and nobly keeping this 
resolution inviolate. Few parts of the country sacrificed more in 
proportion for the sake of freedom, than did Newburyport, in sub- 
mitting to have its staple business of ship-building broken up, in- 
curring large debts for the defence of the harbor, weakening its 
population for the supply of the continental armies, and undergo- 
ing many other privations and embarrassments attendant on a state 
of protracted warfare. The citizens gained a little, and but a lit- 
tle, by privateering ; and in other respects the town stood almost 
still during the war, and until peace restored its commercial advan^ 
tages." 

During the difficulties with the French directory, Newburyport 
presented an uncommon example of patriotism by building a 
twenty-gun ship by the" subscription of some of the principal in- 
habitants of the town, and offered it to the government, and asked 
for the final reimbursement of the net cost " at the convenience 
of the government." This offer, when our navy was small, and 
the means of the government limited, was felt to be valuable. The 
cornmercial prosperity of Newburyport was at one period almost 
iine:k;a.mpled in a town of its size. But commercial restrictions ; 
the fire of 1811 ; and the war of 1812, bore heavily upon a mer- 
oantile and ship-building population, and the town has not entirely 
recovej-dd its former prosperity. The sand bar at the mouth of the 
Merrimac, which, in prosperous times, would have afforded no 
great obstacle to trade, became, under disastrous circumstances, a 
source of despondence. 

The following description of Newburyport is extracted from 
Ne'vt^'hairs Essex Memorial.^ published in 1836. 

" The situation of the town is indeed uncommonly beautiful. 
The populous part stands upon a slope, gently declining to the 
river, so that a siunmer rain can at any time completely Avash the 
streets. By whatever avenue it is approached, its appearance 
never fails to impress the mind of the visiter with pleasurable sen- 
sations. The compact settlement of the town of Newbury enclosing 
it upon two sides along the bank of the river, as you approach it 
Upon the eastern road or from the sea, it presents the aspect of a 
/sonsiderabje city, extending to the distance of nearly three miles 



NEWBURY PORT. 211 

The town is laid out with an unusual degree of regularity. A 
lower street, upon which the wharves and docks open, follows the 
course of the river ; and parallel with this an upper or High street 
extends the whole length of the town. Various avenues pass 
through its center, and a sufficient number of generally wide and 
spacious streets, at regular intervals, intersect these at right angles, 
and connect the upper with the lower street. The main post road 
from Boston enters Newbury port nearly at the central point of 
High street, and passes in a direct line through the town to a very 
large and convenient market-place, which is surrounded by brick 
stores, and is in the immediate vicinity of the principal wharves 
and docks. The dwelling-houses and other buildings are general- 
ly kept in good repair and condition, and present a neat and often 
elegant appearance. Some of the principal houses are extremely 
handsome ; and there are few of any condition which do not pos- 
sess a considerable garden spot, which gives a very open and airy 
aspect to the town, at the same time that it promotes that general 
health for which this place has always been highly distinguished. 
Indeed, a great deal of attention has been paid here, of late years, 
to ornamental as well as common gardening. 

" The Newburyport bridge crosses the Merrimac from the north 
part of the town. It was built in 1827. Abutments with stone 
walls, filled in with sods, gravel, &c., project from either shore. 
That on the Newburyport side is 240, and that on the Salisbury 
side is 187 yards long. The bridge rests on these abutments and 
on four piers built of stone from high-water mark, and is further 
supported by chains passing over the tops of pyramids erected on 
the piers and under the centers of the arches. The span of the 
center arch is 83 yards. The bridge is built in two distinct longi- 
tudinal parts, so that, in case of accident to one, the passage of the 
river will not be interrupted. Whole length, three sevenths of a 
mile. Cost, ^70,000. There has been a rapid and steady increase 
of travel over this bridge. The tolls taken in 1835 amounted to 
nearly double those of 1827. 

"A breakwater was constructed by the United States, in 1830, 
near the mouth of the harbor, for the purpose of improving the 
same, at an expense exceeding |i30,000. It has as yet been pro- 
ductive of but little if any advantage. A pier has since been erect- 
ed on Salisbury side, covering Badger's rocks, which affords a 
convenient harbor for vessels when prevented from coming up to 
town. The Newburyport turnpike to Boston commences at the 
head of State street, and is continued in a direct course to Maiden 
bridge. It was finished in 1806, at an expense of $420,000, but 
is now little travelled. 

" A custom-house has just been completed, situated on Water 
street. It is built of rough granite, with hammered stone pilasters, 
entablature, cornice and portico. The roof is covered with zinc. 
With the exception of the windows and window-frames, it is built 
entirely of stone and brick. The style of architecture is the Gre- 
cian Doric, and the cost of the building $25,000. There are eight 



212 NEWBUBYPORT. 

churches, a stone jail and a keeper's house, an almshouse, an ele- 
gant brick court-house, on Bartlett's mall. High street. Thei;e 
is also a brick market-house, containing a town hall, and rooms 
for municipal officers. The Newburyport Academy, though situ- 
ated within the bounds of Newbury, was built, as its name implies, 
by persons in Newburyport. It is a handsome brick building, 
situated on High street. A private school is now kept in it. The 
Newburyport Lyceum occupy the hall in the second story, which 
is a very handsome and convenient room, and was fitted for them 
at an expense of $1,200." 

There ar« 3 banks— the ATechanics, incorporated 1812, capital 
^200,000; the Merchants, incorporated 1831, capital 1300,000; 
and the Ocean, incorporated in 1833, capital $200,000. There is 
an institution for savings, and 3 insurance companies. Two 
newspapers are published, one semi-weekly the other semi- 
monthly. In 1837 there were 128 vessels employed in the cod 
and mackerel fishery from Newburyport and Newbury ; tonnage, 
6,628; cod-fish caught, 11,400 quintals; value of the same, 
$34,200; mackerel caught, 20,500 barrels; value of the same, 
$143,500; hands employed, one thousand. Four vessels were 
employed in the whale fishery; tonnage, 1,440; sperm oil import- 
ed, 148,480 gallons; whale oil, 80,650 gallons; hands employed, 
120. The value of boots and shoes manufactured, $113,1735 
males employed, 206; females, 114. The population of New- 
buryport in 1790 was 4,837; in 1800,5,946; in 1810, 7,634; in 
1820, 6,789; in 1830, 6,388; and in 1837, 6,741. Distance, 20 
miles N. of Salem, 24 southerly from Portsmouth, and 38 from 
Boston, on the main post road. 

The following account of the great fire in this place is from 
Cushing's History of Newburyport, published in 1826. 

But in addition to the evils arising to us from the cupidity of the European belli- 
gerents, and the restrictive and retaliatory measures into which this country was con- 
sequently driven, Newburyport was doomed to suffer by a peculiar misfortune. This 
was the great fire of 1811, which desolated the busiest portion of the town, by its 
destructive ravages ; and whose effects still meet the eye, in the depopulation of streets 
formerly filled with dwelling-houses and shops. 

This conflagration commenced in a stable in Mechanic Row, near the Market Square, 
and of course in the center of the portion of the to\^Ti devoted to trade and business. 
The stable was at the time unoccupied, and when the fire was discovered was found 
to be completely enveloped in flames. This was at half' past nine o'clock in the even- 
ing of the thirty-first day of May, 1811. The fire quickly extended to Market Square 
on the one hand, and to State street on the other, and soon spread in various directions, 
with a degree of celerity and fury which batHed all exertions to stop its progress. The 
fire continued to rage until about two o'clock in the morning, soon after which its vio- 
lence diminished ; and by sunrise it had in a great measure subsided, after having 
swept away everything on a tract of land of sixteen and a half acres, leaving there 
only a mass of deplorable ruins. No part of the town was more compactly built than 
this ; none contained so large a proportion of valuable buildings, merchandise, and 
other property. Indeed, the compactness of the buildings, which were chiefly construct- 
ed of wood, served constantly to feed the flames with combustible materials, so that 
for a time the destruction of the whole town was seriously apprehended. It was esti- 
mated that nearly 250 buildings were consumed, most of which were stores and dwell- 
ing-houses. This number included nearly all the shops in town for the sale of dry 
goods; four printing-offices ; the custom-house ; the post-office ] two insurance offices ; 



NEWBURYPORT. 213 

four bookstores ; and one meeting-house ; and the dwellings of more than ninety 
families. 

The scene presented by this conflagration was truly terrible. It is described by an 
eye-witness in the ensuing words : 

" At the commencement of the fire, it was a bright moonlight night, and the evening 
was cool and pleasant. But the moon gradually became obscured, and at length disap- 
peared in the thick cloud of smoke which shrouded the atmosphere. The glare of 
light throughout the town was intense, and the heat that of a sultry summer noon. 
The streets were thronged with those whose dwellings were consumed, conveying the 
remains of their property to places of safety. The incessant crash of falling buildings, 
the roaring of chimneys like distant thunder, the flames ascending in curling volumes 
from a vast extent of ruins, the air filled with a shower of fire, and the feathered throng 
fluttering over their wonted retreats and dropping into the flames, the lowing of the 
cows, and the confused noise of exertion and distress, united to impress the mind with 
the most awful sensations." 

The unprecedented rapidity with which the flames spread themselves over the town, 
may be inferred from the following circumstance. Many persons had, soon after the 
fire began, carried their goods and furniture seemingly to a secure distance, and depo- 
sited them in the meeting-house of the Baptist society in Liberty street. But the fire 
at length reached this place, and consumed the church and its contents, which, being 
accumulated there, greatly increased the flames. 

Nothing was more remarkable during the heart-rending scene of this destructive 
conflagration, than the spectacle which State street exhibited on one occasion. Two 
large brick btiildings, four stories in height, stood upon the western side of this street, 
and opposed a barrier to the destructive element, which it was hoped for a time would 
there be arrested in its course. But a sudden change of wind threw the flames directly 
upon these immense piles, which were speedily involved in the general calamity. The 
opposite buildings being now on fire, and the wind blowing with great force, the flames 
ascended high on either side, and, meeting in the air, extended in a continual sheet of 
fire across the spacious street. The impression made by this tremendous scene upon 
the mind of the author of these pages, then a youthful spectator of it, will never be 
eflaced from his recollection. It was sublime beyond conception. The beholder could 
look through a long vista of over-arching blaze, whose extreme brilliancy dazzled and 
fatigued, while it irresistibly attracted, the straining eye. 

The suff"eriugs of the families, whose dwellings and property were consumed, imme- 
diately excited the sympathy of the liberal and charitable. Meetings were held in 
many of the large towns in various parts of the covmtry ; and generous donations 
were received from different quarters, for the relief of the inhabitants. The citizens 
of Boston collected upwards of twenty-four thousand dollars, which, with characteristic 
liberality, they presented to the sufferers by the fire. By these means, the losses of the 
poorer class were very much lightened, and the extent of the calamity was diminished. 
But the injury to the town, and to very many individuals, by the absolute destruction 
of property, was still very serious ; and its efiects must long continue to be felt. 

The first religions society in Newbury port was formed in 1725, 
out of the first parish in Newbury, and the Rev. John Lowell was 
ordained their first pastor in 1726. He died in 1767, and was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Thomas Gary. Rev. John Andrews was settled as 
colleague with Mr. Gary, in 1788. The first Presbyterian society 
dates its origin to the year 1744 ; it consisted of persons who se- 
parated about that time from the first and third churches in New- 
bury. They erected a house of worship in High street, in which 
they remained until 1756, when the present church in Federal 
street was built. The formation of this church took place in 
consequence of the excitement produced by the preaching of Mr. 
Whitefield. The Episcopal society was founded in 1711. The 
Orthodox Gongregational church was founded 1767; the Indepen- 
dent Orthodox in 1794 ; the second Presbyterian in 1795 ; the 
Baptist society in 1804, and the Methodist Episcopal in 1827. 

29 



814 



NEW BURY PORT. 




House in which M^'. IVhiteJield died, Newhuryport. 

The above ancient house is now standing in School street, in 
Newhuryport. It was the residence of the Rev. Jonathan Parsons, 
the first regular pastor of the first Presbyterian society. It is an 
object of interest on account of its being the place where Mr. 
Whitefield, the celebrated preacher, died. His lodging-room was 
the northern chamber on the second floor, two sides of which are 
seen in the engraving. He died in the entry at the windoAv over 
the front door, to which he was taken to obtain the air. Some 
alterations have been made since that period about the window 
and front door. It was Mr. Whitefields desire, should he die in 
this country, to be buried under Mr. Parsons' pulpit. The people 
of Boston and other places were desirous of having Mr. White- 
field's remains interred among them, but Mr. Parsons would not 
consent, but followed Mr. Whitefield's wishes in this respect. The 
first Presbyterian church in which Mr. Parsons, and also Mr. 
Whitefield, preached, is still standing, a few rods from the above 
house. The pulpit was formerly at the east side, and Mr. White- 
field's remains were buried under it : the pulpit is now at the south 
end of the church, and the remains, with those of Mr. Parsons and 
another minister, one each side, have been placed in a vault un- 
derneath, where they are yet to be seen. An elegant monument 
of Egyptian and Itahan marble stands within the walls of the 
church, at one corner, erected to the memory of Mr. Whitefield. 
It is the gift of an eminent merchant of this place to the society in 
which he worships ; it was designed by Strickland, and executed 
by Strother of Philadelphia. The following cut is from a draw- 
ing of this monument, and a copy of the inscription. 

This Cenotaph is erected, with affectionate veneration, to the memory of the Rev. 
Geokge Whitefield, born at Gloucester, England, December 16, 1714. Educated at 
Oxford University; ordained 1736. In a ministry of Thirty-four years, He crossed 
the Atlantic Thirteen times, and Preached more than eighteen thousand sermons. As 
a soldier of the cross, humble, devout, ardent, He put on the whole Armour of God ; 
preferring the Honour of Christ to his own Interest, Repose, Reputation, and Life. As 



N K W B r R Y P O 11 T 



215 




Whitefield' s Monument. 

a Christian orator, his deep Piety, disinterested zeal, and vi^nd Imagination, gave un- 
exampled energy to his look, utterance, and action. Bold, fervent, pungent, and popu- 
lar in his eloquence, no other uninspired man ever preached to so large assemblies, or 
enforced the simple Truths of the Gospel, by motives so persuasive and awful, and 
with an Influence so powerful on the hearts of his hearers. He died of Asthma, Sep- 
tember 30, 1770, suddenly exchanging his Life of unparalleled Labours for his Eter- 
nal Kest. 

The following Elegy on Mr. Whitefield was written in England, 
by one of his admirers : 



" Warm, frequent, and successfully he preach'd, 
While crowding thousands piously improv'd; 

His powerful voice to distant regions reach'd, 
Two worlds attentive heard, admir'd, and lov'd. 

Great Britain, Ireland and America, 
This apostolic preacher press'd to hear; 

Sinners of every sort, the grave, the gay, 
Felt his reproofs, and leani'd their God to fear. 

His constant theme waa Jesus and his grace ; 

Fir'd with this subject, how his periods flow'd ! 
Celestial radiance shone upon his face. 

And in his heart divine aifeclion glow'd. 

The sacred influence so plenteous pour'd 

On humbled sinners, fell with mighty power: 

Converted thou-sands felt the quick'ning word, 
Bow'd to the grace, and bless'd the happy hour. 

Terror and soft compassion mutual join'd 
To stop the sirmer in his mad career ; 



Zion and thundering Sinai he combined, 
To draw with gentleness, or urge with fear. 

Nor did poor fainting souls attend in vain, 
Rich gospel cordi.ils dropped from his tongue; 

Till! wounded conscience lost its dreadful pain, 
And sorrow's plaint was changed to rapture's song. 

Whitefield is dead. — Not so his deathless fame; 

Nor time nor calumny shall that impair; 
Immortal excellence adorns his name, 

Immortal fruits his pious labors bear. 

Among the thousands of God's Israel, 
Most precious shall thy dear rememtirance be, 

Religious fathers to their children tell 
The mighty work God brought to pass by lhe«. 

The annals of the churches sliall record 
With what amazing power the Spirit came ; 

And while they give all glory to the Lord, 
Shall well remember Whitefield's honor'd name." 



" Theophihts Parsons^ a name identified with the history of our 
law, laid the foundations of his eminence in Newburyport. Born 
in Newbury, in February, 1750, he received the rudiments of his 
education at Dummer Academy, under the celebrated master Moo- 
dy. His father, the Rev. Moses Parsons, was minister of Byfield 
parish in Newbury. He was graduated at Harvard college, in 
1769, and afterwards studied law in Falmouth, now Portland, and 
while there taught the grammar-school in that town. He prac- 



k 



210 NEWBURYPORT. 

tised law there a few years ; but the conflagration of the town by 
the British, in 1775, obhged him to return to his father's house, 
where he met Judge Trowbridge, and received the most valuable 
instructions from that eminent jurist. He soon resumed the prac- 
tice of his profession in this town, and rapidly rose to unrivalled 
reputation as a lawyer. 

" In 1777, he wrote the famous Essex Result, and in 1779 was 
an active member of the convention which framed the state constitu- 
tion. In 1789, he was a member of the convention for considering 
the present Constitution of the United States, and was peculiarly 
instrumental in procuring its adoption. In 1801, he was appointed 
attorney-general of the United States, but declined accepting his 
commission. In 1800, he removed to Boston. In 1806, he was 
appointed chief justice of the supreme court of Massachusetts, 
and his profound legal opinions have mainly contributed to settle 
the principles of our expository law. He died in Boston, October 
13, 1813, with reputation as a judge and a lawyer unequalled in 
Massachusetts." — Cushing^s History of NeiDburyport. 

'•'■Jacob Perkins was born at Newburyport, July 9, 1766. His 
father, Matthew Perkins, was a lineal descendant of one of the 
first settlers of Ipswich, and lived to the advanced age of ninety. 
After receiving a common school education, he became apprentice 
to a goldsmith, and soon displayed those extraordinary inventive 
powers in mechanics which have elevated him to distinction. 

" At the age of twenty-one, he was employed, when other artists 
had failed, to make dies for the copper coinage of Massachusetts, 
under the old confederation. At twenty-four, he invented the nail 
machine, which cut and headed nails at one operation. His me- 
chanical genius was now fully developed ; and for twenty years 
and upwards, he continued to multiply useful inventions in the 
arts with a facility truly astonishing. His ingenuity in making a 
plate for bank notes incapable of being counterfeited, and in dis- 
covering the art of softening and hardening steel at pleasure, was 
particularly useful to the public. The latter discovery opened a 
wide field for the labors of the engraver, and led to many happy 
results. 

" It would be endless to recount the great number of useful or 
ingenious inventions which he was constantly producing during the 
latter part of his residence in America. His talents found, for a 
time, a wider field for their display in Philadelphia, whither he 
removed from Newburyport. After residing there several years, 
he crossed the Atlantic, and is now exercising his genius in Eng- 
land — the great theatre for the exhibition and encouragement of 
abilities like his. Besides many things of merely philosophical 
interest, which he has there been teaching to the teachers of the 
world, he has also made some signal improvements in the steam 
engine, the great mechanical agent of modern times. His inven- 
tions in the arts of engraving and in calico printing, among other 
things, have been successfully put in operation ; while his genius, 
3nd his urbanity of deportment and simplicity of character, are 



ROWLEY. 217 

procuring him the admiration and esteem of the wisest m^n and 
greatest nobles of Britain." 



ROWLEY. 



Rowley was settled in 1638 by a company of persons from 
Yorkshire, England, at the head of which was the Rev. Ezekiel 
Rogers, who had been a minister at Rowley, England. The town 
took its present name in honor of Mr. Rogers. The easterly part 
of the town is made up of broad tracts of marsh land, which yields 
vast quantities of salt grass. The central village of Rowley con- 
sists of 2 churches, and upwards of thirty dwelling-houses. Dis- 
tance from Boston, 28 miles. 

Mr. Rogers, says Dr. Spofford, "was born at Wethersfield, 
England, in 1590. He entered the university at thirteen years of 
age, and graduated A. M., at the age of twenty. After enduring 
many afflictions in England, he obtained a peaceful settlement in 
this place, to which he was a distinguished benefactor. He suf- 
fered many domestic sorrows in the evening of his days, and died, 
worn out with labor and care, in 1660." His remains were disin- 
terred a few years since, and removed to a more suitable part of 
the burying-ground, and a marble monument erected by the people 
of Rowley, who still enjoy the fruits of his bounty. Edward Carl- 
ton was said to be the first person born here, ancestor of the 
Carltons who now live in the town, born 1639. The first mar- 
riage took place the same year. The parties were Robert and 
Anna Haseltine. A fulling-mill was established here by some of 
the first settlers, who made the first cloth that was ever made in 
North America. The following are some of the names of the first 
settlers : Chaplin, Gage, Jewett, Mighill, Nelson, Payson, Spof- 
ford, Stickney, and Tenney. The act incorporating the town is 
as follows : " 1639, 4th day of the 7th month, ordered that Mr. Eze- 
kiel Roger's Plantation shall be called Rowley." The towns of 
Bradford and Boxford. with parts of one or two other towns, were 
then included. By a late act of the legislature another town has 
been made out of Rowley, by the name of Georgetown. Much 
attention is paid to the cultivation of fruit in the town ; upwards 
of 1,000 barrels of perry are annually made. 

There is $400,000 to $500,000 capital employed mostly in the 
manufacture of shoes and leather. In 1837, before Georgetown 
was set ofi" from this town, there were 32,600 pairs of boots : shoes, 
300,250 pairs, were manufactured, valued at $315,360. There 
were 16 tanneries ; the value of leather tanned and curried was 
$43,400. 

The first church in this place was organized in 1639. The first 
pastor, Rev. Ezekiel Rogers, settled on the formation of the church, 
and died 1661. He was succeeded by the Rey. Samuel Phillips, iiji 



218 SALEM. 

1650, died 1696. His successor was the Rev. Samuel Shepard, 
who was settled in 1665, died 1668. The fourth pastor was Rev. 
Edward Payson, direct ancestor of Dr. Payson of Portland; he was 
settled in 1682, and died 1732. In 1729 he was succeeded by the 
Rev. Jedediah Jewett, who died 1774. His successor Avas the Rev. 
Ebenezer Bradford, who was settled in 1782, died in 1801. The 
next was the Rev. David Tullar, who settled here in 1803, and 
was dismissed 1810. He was succeeded by the Rev. James 
W. Tucker, in 1812, who died 1829. His successor was Rev. Wil- 
lard Holbrook, settled in 1818. 

The following is the inscription on the monument of Mr. Rogers, 
the first minister of Rowley. 

Sacred to the memory of the Eev. Ezekiel Rogers, first minister of the church in 
Rowley, who emigrated from Britain to this place, with his church and flock, in 1638. 
He finished his labors and life, 23 Jan. 1660, in his 70lh year. He was a man of emi- 
nent piety, zeal, and abilities. His strains of oratory were delightful. Regeneration 
and union to Jesus Christ, by faith, were points, on which he principally insisted. He 
so remarkably expressed the feelings, exercises, motives, and characters of his hearers, 
that they were ready to exclaim, who hath told him all this ? With the youth he took 
great pains, and was a tree of knowledge laden with fruit, which children could reach. 
He bequeathed a part of his lands to the town of Rowley for the support of the gospel, 
which generous benefaction we, in the first parish, enjoy to the present day, and here 
gratefully commemorate, by raising this mouument to his memory, in 180.5. 



SALEM. 

Salem, the chief town in Essex county, was the first town set- 
tled in the bounds of the old Massachusetts colony. It was in- 
debted for its first settlement to the failure of a "fishing planta- 
tion" at Cape Ann. The Rev. John White, and a number of 
gentlemen belonging to Dorchester, in England, were strongly set 
on establishing colonies in Massachusetts, in order that they might 
become places of refuge from the corruptions and oppressions 
which prevailed under James I. There being some difficulty 
among the Plymouth settlers, some of them were obliged to leave 
Plymouth and reside at Nantasket, the most distinguished of 
whom were Rev. John Lyford and Roger Conant. These per- 
sons, with their companions, being chosen by Mr. White and his 
associates to manage their affairs at Cape Ann, they accordingly 
left Nantasket, and removed to this place in the autumn of 1625. 
Conant, finding a better place for a plantation a little to the west- 
ward, called Ncaimkeag, gave notice of it to his friends in Eng- 
land. This information gave rise to a project for procuring a 
grant for settling a colony in Massachusetts Bay. In 1628, a pa- 
tent having been obtained, Capt. John Endicott was sent over with 
about 100 persons, to carry on the plantation at Nai/mkeag, where 
he arrived in September. For his dwelling, he purchased the 
materials of a house which had been located at Cape Ann, and 
belonged to the Dorchester company. Some remains of this build- 
ing are said to be in existence. Those who remained at Naum- 
keag passed through severe afflictions. Some had scarcely a 



SALEM. 219 

suitable place to lay their head, or food sufficient to satisfy the 
cravings of hunger. A large proportion died with scurvy and 
other diseases. 

In 1629, the Massachusetts company obtained a charter from the 
king, granting them powers to administer the government of the 
colony : they received the title of " The Governor and Company of 
Massachusetts Bay, in New England." Their seal was in part the 
representation of an Indian, having a bov/ in one hand and an 
arrow in another, and a label from his mouth, with the scriptural 
expression, '•^Come over and help ?/5." The spirit of emigration 
now gained strength. During this year, four clergymen, the Rev. 
Francis Higginson, and Messrs. Skelton, Bight, and Smith, set 
sail in a fleet, which contained as passengers 300 men, 60 women, 
and 26 children. There were, also, on board, 115 neat cattle, 
some horses, sheep, goats, and 6 cannon, with stores suitable for a 
fort. The ship Talbot arrived with Messrs. Higginson and Smith 
at Cape Ann, June 27di. There they spent the Sabbath, and came 
to Naumkeag the 29th. On the condition of the plantation, Mr. 
Higginson writes: — "When we came first to Nehumkek, we 
found about half a score -of houses ; we found also abundance of 
corn planted by them, very good, and well liking. And we brought 
with us more than 200 passengers and planters more, which by 
common consent of the old planters were combined together into 
one body politic, under the same governor. There are in all of 
us, both old and new planters, about 300, whereof 200 of them 
are settled at Nehumkek, now Salem. And the rest have planted 
themselves at Masatkidets Bay, beginning to build a town there, 
which we do call Cherto, or Charlestown. We that are settled at 
Salem make what haste we can to build houses ; so that in a short 
time we shall have a fair town. We have great ordinance, where- 
with we doubt not but we shall fortify ourselves in a short time 
to keep out a potent adversary. But that which is our greatest 
comfort and means of defence above all others is, that we have 
here the true religion and holy ordinances of Almighty God taught 
among us." Mr. Higginson and the others, after their arrival, 
deemed it expedient to alter the name of the town, and wished to 
designate it by a term significant of their freedom from civil and 
religious oppression. It therefore received the name Salem^ a He- 
-ew word, meaning peace. It appears that the natives had for- 
Sv n this spot, and none ever claimed it. and the possession was 
uninVerrupted. 

" The company's advice to Mr. Endicott shows how careful they were to have the 
Lord's day kept holy. They observe, ' To the end the Sabbath may be celebrated in 
a religious maimer, we appoint that all that inhabit the plantation, both for the general 
and particular employments, may surcease their labour every Saturday throughout 
the year at 3 o'c. in the afternoon, and that they spend the rest of that day in chate- 
chizing and preparing for the Sabbath as the ministers shall direct.' They were 
equally desirous to have family order and religion kept up. On this subject they say : 
' For the better accommodation of business we have divided the servants belonging 
to the company into several families, as we desire and intend they should live togetlier, 
a copy whereof we send you here enclosed, that you may accordingly appoint each 
man his charge and duty ; yet it is not our intent to tie you so strictly to this direction 

30 



220 SALEM. 

hut that in your discretion, as you shall see cause, from time to time, you may alter or 
displace any as you should think fit. Our earnest desire is that you take special care 
in settling ihese families, that the chief in the family (^at least some of them) be. 
grounded in religion, whereby morning and evening family duties may be duly per' 
formed, and a watchful eye held over all in each family, by one or more in each fam- 
ily to be appointed hereto, that so disorders may be prevented and ill weeds nipt before 
they take too great a head.' #*###* 

" In order to secure a primary object of their emigration, our fathers took measures 
for the regular establishment of the church and ministry among them. July 20th 
was set apart by Mr. Endicott for choice of the pastor and teacher. Of the services 
on that interesting day, flir. Charles Gott writes to Gov. Bradford of Plymouth. He 
thus expresses himself: — ' The 20th of July, it pleased God to move the heart of our 
governor to set it apart for a solemn day of humiliation for the choice of a pastor and 
teacher ; the former part of the day being spent in praise and teaching ; the latter 
part was spent about the election, which was after this manner : The persons thought 
on were demanded concerning their callings. They acknowledged there was a two- 
fold calling, the one inward calling, when the Lord moved the heart of a man to take 
that calling upon him, and filled him with gifts for the same ; the second was from 
the people ; when a company of believers are joined together in covenant, to walk 
together in ail the ways of God, every member is to have a free voice in the choice of 
their officers. These two servants clearing all things by their answers, we saw no 
reason 'but that we might freely give our voices for their election after this trial. 
Their choice was after this manner, — every fit member wrote in a note his name 
whom the Lord moved him to think was fit for a pastor, and so likewise whom they 
would have for a teacher ; — so the most voice was for Mr. Skelton to be pastor and 
Mr. Higginson to be teacher ; and they accepting the choice, Mr. Higginson, with 
three or four more of the gravest members of the church, laid their hands on Mr. Skelton, 
using prayers therewith. This being done, then there was imposition of hands on Mr. 
Higginson. Then there was proceeding in election of elders and deacons ; but they 
were only named, and laying on of hands deferred, to see if it pleased God to send us 
more able men over ; but since Thursday is appointed for another solemn day of 
humiliation for the full choice of elders and deacons and ordaining them ; now, good 
Sir, I hope that you, and the rest of God's people with you, will say that here was a 
right foundation laid, and that these two blessed servants of the Lord came in at the 
door and not at the window.' When the 6th of August came the services in contem- 
plation were performed. A platform of church government, a confession of doctrines 
in general, and a covenant were adopted. The last was subscribed by thirty persons. 
To this number many of good report were soon added. One particular contained in 
their covenant was, that they would endeavor to be clear from being stumbling- 
blocks in the way of the Indians. The Plymouth church were invited to take part in 
the ordination, Avith the understanding that their counsel was to be nothing more than 
discretionary. Of their delegates was Gov. Bradford. He and his attendants were 
prevented by adverse winds from being here in the forenoon; but they arrived season- 
ably enough to present the right hand of fellowship. 

" It will be perceived, that there were two ministers placed over the congregation here 
instead of one. This custom seems not to have been fully complied with here in any 
other instance, excepting that in which IMr. Williams served for a short period Avith 
Mr. Skelton. It was a custom, however, so dear to some of the colony, they would 
not interrupt it, lest they should be chargeable with flagrant iniquity ; and those thus 
inclined succeeded to keep it alive over a century. Instead of being titled Reverend 
then and a considerable period afterwards. Congregational ministers were called Elders. 
The ruling elder selected for the church here was Mr. Henry Haughton. This office 
was considered an important one, and continued to be esteemed in the colonial 
churches till the middle of the last century. The duty of such officers was to preach 
occasionally in the absence or on the illness of the ministers, and also to assist in cases 
of church discipline. When preachers except their own served, they were in the habit 
of remarking, previously to their beginning — ' If ye have any word of exhortation, 
say on.' " — Felfs Annals of Salem. 

" For a time, Salem increased so slowly that Ipswich and Lynn 
•were before it in importance ; but in 14 or 15 years after the arri- 
val of Mr. Endicott, the fisheries had been commenced with suc- 
cess, and all other towns had been left behind in commercial enter- 
prise. The township in 1637 comprehended, together with its 



SALEM. 221 

present limits, Beverly, Danvers, Manchester, Marblehead, Middle- 
ton, a part of Lynn, Topsfield, and Wenham." The following 
description of Salem in 1639 is from Wood's Neiv England Prospect. 

" Salem stands on the middle of a necke of land very pleasantly, having a South 
river on the one side and a North river on the other side. Upon this necke where most 
of the houses stand, is very bad and sandie ground, yet for seaven years together it hath 
brought forth exceeding good corne, by being fished, but every third year. In some 
places is very good ground and good timber, and divers springs hard by the sea side. 
There Hkewise is store of fish, as Basses, Eels, Lobsiers, Clammes, &;c. Although 
their land be none of the best, yet beyond these rivers is a very good soyle, where 
they have taken faj^is, and get their hay, and plant their come ; there they crosse 
these rivers with small Cannowes, which were made of whole pine trees, being about 
two foote and a halfe over, and twenty foote long. In these likewise they goe a fowl- 
ing, sometimes two leagues at sea. There be more cannowes in this towne, than in 
all the whole Patent, every household having a water horse or two. This Town wants 
an Alewife river, which is a great inconvenience. It hath two good harbours, the one 
being called Winter and the other Summer harbours, which lieth within Derbins Fort, 
which place, if it were well fortified, might keepe shippes from landing forces in any 
of those two places." 

During the spring and summer of 1692 occurred one of the most 
surprising and afflicting scenes ever witnessed in New England, 
from the supposed prevalence of witchcraft. This excitement 
commenced in Salem village^ now Danvers, in the family of the 
Rev. Mr. Parris, the minister of that place. The town suffered 
greatly by the excitement ; a fourth part of the inhabitants left the 
place. Twenty persons were executed for witchcraft ; one of them, 
Giles Cory, refusing to put himself on trial, was pressed to death. 
About one hundred were accused, about fifty confessed themselves 
guilty, and about this number of other persons were afflicted. 
Those who confessed themselves guilty of this crime appear to 
have done it in order to save their lives, as they afterwards declared 
themselves innocent. Most of those who were executed exhibited a 
forcible example of the strength of moral principle ; rather than con- 
fess what they knew to be untrue, they nobly suffered death. Those 
who suffered were executed on a hill in the westerly part of the 
toAvn, ever since known as Gallows Hill. The house in which 
some of them were examined is the mansion standing in Essex 
street, upon the west corner of North street. Dr. Cotton Mather 
was a firm believer in the existence of witchcraft, and in his Mag- 
nalia gives quite a number of examples, which he says are well 
attested. The following, giving a general account of these occur- 
rences, is taken from that work, in his own words 

It is to be confessed and bewailed, that many inhabitants of New England, and 
young people especially, had been led away with little Sorceries, wherein they did 
secretly those things that were not right against the Lord their God : they would often 
cure hurts with spells and practice detestable conjurations with Sieves, and Keys, 
and Peas, and Nails, and Horse Shoes, to learn the things for which they had a for- 
bidden and impious curiosity. Wretched books had stolen into the land, wherein fools 
were instructed how to become able fortune tellers. 

Although these diabolical divinations are more ordinarily committed perhaps all 
over the world, than they are in the country of New England, yet that being a coun- 
try devoted unto the worship and service of the Lord Jesus Christ above the rest 
of the world, he signalized his vengeance against these wickednesses with such 
extraordinary dispensations as have not often seen in other places. 

The Devils which had been so played withal! , and it may be by some few criminals 



222 SALEM. 

more explicitly engaged and employed, now broke m upon the country after as aston- 
ishing a manner as was ever heard of. Some scores of people, first about Salem, the 
centre and first born of all the towns in the Colony, and afterwards in other places, 
were arrested with many preternatural vexations upon their bodies, and a variety of 
cruel torments which were evidently from the Demons of the invisible world. The 
people that were infected and infested with such demons, in a few days time arrived 
unto such a refining alteration upon their Eyes that they could see their tormentors ; 
they saw a Devil of a little stature, and of a tawny colour, attended still with spectres 
that appeared in more human circumstances. 

The tormentors tendered unto the alhicted a book requiring them to sign it, or to 
touch it at least, in token of their consenting to be listed in the service of the Devil ; 
which they refusing to do, the Spectres under the command of that black man, as they 
called him, would apply themselves to torture them with prodigious molestations. 

The afflicted wretches were horribly distorted and convulsed ; they were pinched 
black and blue ; pins would be run every where in their flesh ; they v.'ould be scalded 
until they had blisters raised on them ; and a thousand other things, before hundreds 
of witnesses, were done unto them, evidently preternatural ; for if it were perternatu- 
ral to keep a rigid fast for nine, yea, for fifteen days togethei" ; or if it were preternat- 
ural to have ones hands tied close together with a Rope to be plainly seen, and then 
by unseen hands presently pulled up a great way from the earth, before a crowd of 
people ; such preternatural things were endured by them. 

But of all the preternatural thmgs which these people sufiered, there were none 
more unaccountable than those wherein the prestigious Demons would ever now and 
then cover the most corporeal things in the world with a fascinating mist of invisibility. 
As now, a person was cruelly assaulted by a spectre, that she said came at her with a 
spindle, though nobody else in the room could see either the spectre or the spindle ; at 
last, in her agonies, giving a snatch at the spectre, she pulled the spindle away ; and 
it was no sooner got into her hand, but the other folks then present beheld that it was 
indeed a real, proper. Iron spindle ; which when they locked up very safe, it was, 
nevertheless, by the demons taken away to do farther mischief. 

Again, a person was haunted by a most abusive spectre, which came to her, she 
said, with a sheet about her, though seen to none but herself. After she had under- 
gone a deal of teaze from the annoyance of the spectre, she gave a violent snatch at 
the sheet that was upon it ; wherefrom she tore a corner, which in her hand imme- 
diately was beheld by all that were present, a palpable corner of a sheet : and her 
Father, which was of her, catched, that he might see what his Daughter had so 
strangely seized ; but the spectre had like to have ^Tung his hand ofi', by endeavour- 
ing to wrest it from him ; however he still held it ; and several times this od accident 
was renewed in the family. There wanted not the oaths of good credible people to 
these particulars. 

Also it is known, that these wicked spectres did proceed so far as to steal several 
quantities of money from divers people, part of which individual money dropt some- 
times out of the air, before sufficient spectators, into the hands of the afflicted, while 
the spectres were urging them to subscribe their covenant with death. Moreover, 
poisons to the standersby wholly invisibly, were sometimes forced upon the afflicted ; 
which, when they have with much reluctancy swallowed, they have swoln presently, 
so that the common medicines for poisons have been found necessary to relieve them ; 
yea, sometimes the spectres in the struggles have so dropt the poisons, that the stand- 
ersby have smelt them and viewed them, and beheld the pillows of the miserable 
stained with them. Yet more, the miserable have complained bitterly of burning 
rags run into their forcibly distended mouths ; and though nobody could see any such 
cloths, or indeed any fires in the chambers, yet presently the scalds were seen plainly 
by every body on the mouths of the complaincs, and not only the smell, but the 
smoke of the burning sensibly filled the chambers 

Once more the miserable exclaimed extremely of Branding Irons, heating at the 
fire on the hearth to mark them ; now the standersby could see no Irons, yet they 
could see distinctly the print of them in the ashes, and smell them too, as they were 
carried by the not-seen furies unto the poor creatures for whom they were intended ; 
a.nd those poor creatures were thereupon so stigmatized with them, that they will bear 
the marks of them to their dying day. Nor are these the tenth part of the prodigies 
that fell out among the inhabitants of New England. 

Flashy people may burlesque these things, but when hundreds of the most sober 
people, in a country where they have as much mother wit certainly as the rest of man- 
kind, know them to be irUe, nothing but the absurd and froward spirit of saducism 
f^ax (question thetii. I have not yet mentioned one tiling that will be justified, if it hn 



SALEM. 223 

required, by the oaths of more considerate persons than can ridicule these od phe- 
nomena. 

But the worst part of this astonishing tragedy is yet behind ; wherein Sir William 
Phips at last being dropt as it were from the machine of Heaven, was an instrument 
of easing the distresses of the land, now so darkened by the Lord of Hosts. There 
were very worthy men upon the spot where the assault from hel was first made, who 
apprehended themselves called from the God of Heaven, to sift the business unto the 
bottom of it ; and indeed, the continual impressions which the outcries and the havocks 
of the afflicted people that lived nigh unto them caused on their minds, gave no little 
edge to this apprehension. 

They did, in the first place, take it for granted, that there are witches, or wicked 
children of men, who upon covenanting with and commissioning of evil spirits, are 
attended by their ministry to accomplish the things desired of them : they had not only 
the assersions of llie holy scriptures ; assersions which the witch advocates cannot 
evade without shifts too foolish for the prudent, or too profane lor any honest man to 
use ; and they had not only well attested relations of the gravest authors, from Bodin 
to Bovet, and from Binsfield to Brombal and Baxter ; to deny all which, would be as 
reasonable as to turn the chronicles of all nations into romances of Don Quixot and 
the Seven Champions ; but they had also an occular demonstration in one, who a little 
before had been executed for witchcraft, when Jo.seph Dudley, Esqr. was the Chief 
Judge. There was one whose magical images were found, and who confessing her 
deeds, (when a Jury of Doctors returned her compos mentis,) actually showed the 
whole court by what ceremonies used unto them, she directed her familiar spirits how 
and where to cruciate the objects of her malice; and the experiment being made over 
and over again before the whole court, the effect followed exactly in the hurts done to 
the people at a distance from her. The existence of such witches was now taken for 
granted by the good men, wherein so far the generality of reasonable men have thought 
they ran well ; and they soon received the confessions of some accused persons to 
confirm them in it ; but then they took one thing more for granted, wherein it is now 
as generally thought they went out of the way. The afflicted people vehemently 
accused several persons, in several places, that the spectres which afflicted them did 
exactly resemble them ; until the importunity of the accusations did provoke the Ma- 
gistrates to examine them. When many of the accused came upon their examination, 
it was found that the demons, then a thousand ways abusing of the poor afflicted peo- 
ple, had with a marvelous exactness represented them ; yea, it was found that many 
of the accused, but casting their Eye on the afflicted, though their faces were never 
so much another way, would fall down and lie in a sort of a swoon, wherein they 
would continue, whatever hands were laid upon them, until the hands of the accused 
came to touch them, and then they would revive immediately ; and it was found that 
various kinds of natural actions, done by many of the accused in or to their own 
bodies, as leaning, bending, turning awry, or squeezing their hands, or the like, Avere 
presently attended with the like things preternaturally done upon the bodies of the 
afflicted, though they were so far assunder that the afflicted could not at all observe the 
iiccused. 

It was also found that the flesh of the afflicted was often bitten at such a rate, that 
not only the print of the teeth would be left on their flesh, but the very slaver of spittle 
too, even such as might be clearly distinguished from other peoples. And usually the 
afflicted went through a terrible deal of seeming difficulties from the tormenting spec- 
tres, and must be long waited on, before they could get a breathing space from their 
torments to give in their testimonies. 

Now many good men took up an opinion, that the providence of God would not per- 
mit an innocent person to come under such a spectral representation ; and that a con- 
currence of so many circumstances would prove an accused person to be in a confede- 
racy with the demons thus afflicting of the neighbors ; they judged, that except these 
things might amount unto a conviction, it would scarce be possible ever to convict a 
witch ; and they had some philosophical schemes of witchcraft, and of the method and 
manner wherein magical poisons operate, which further supported them in their 
opinion. 

Sundry of the accused persons were brought itnto their trial, while this opinion was 
yet prevailing in the minds of the Judges and Juries, and perhaps the most of the 
people in the country, then mostly suffering ; and though some of them that were tried 
there came in so much other evidence of their diabolical compacts, that some of the 
most Judicious, and yet vehement opposers of the notions then in vogue, publicly 
declared, had they themselves been on the bench, they could not have acquitted them: 
nevertheless, divers were condemned, against whom the chief evidence was founded 
in ttie spectral exhibitions. 



224 SALEM. 

And it happening, that some of the accused coming to confess themselves guiUy, 
(heir shapes were no more seen by any of the afflicted, though the confession had 
been kept never so secret, but instead thereof the accused themselves became in all 
vexations just like the afflicted ; and this yet more confirmed many in the opinion that 
had been taken up 

And another thing that quickened them, yet more to act upon it, was, that the 
afflicted were frequently entertained with apparitions of Ghosts, at the same time that 
the spectres of the supposed witches troubled them : which Ghosts always cast the 
beholders into a far more consternation than any of the spectres ; and when they 
exhibited themselves, they cried out of being murdered by the witchcrafts, or other 
violences of the persons represented in the spectres — once or twice the apparitions 
were seen by others at the very same time that they showed themselves to the afflicted ; 
and seldom were they seen at all, but when something unusual and suspicious had 
attended the death of the party thus appearing. 

The Dutch and French Ministers in the province of New York, having likewise 
about this time their Judgment asked by the Chief Judge of that province, who was 
then a gentleman of New England, they gave it under their hands that if we believe 
no Venefirk Witchcraft, we must renounce the Scripture of God, and the consent of 
almost all the world ; but that yet the apparition of a person afflicting another, is a 
very insufficient proof of a witch ; nor is it inconsistent with the holy and righteous 
government of God over men, to permit the affliction of the neighbors, by devils in 
the shape of good men ; and tlaat a good name, obtained by a good Ufe, should not be 
lost by mere spectral accusations. 

Now upon a deliberate review of these things, his Excellency first reprieved, and 
then pardoned many of them that had been condemned ; and there fell out several 
strange things that caused the spirit of the country to run as vehemently upon the 
acquitting of all the accused, as it by mistake ran at first upon the condemning of 
them. 

In fine, the last Courts that sate upon this thorny business, finding that it was impos- 
sible to penetrate into the whole meaning of the things that had happened, and that 
so many unsearchable cheats were interwoven into the conclusion of a mysterious 
business, which perhaps had not crept thereinto at the beginning of it, they cleared the 
accused as fast as they tried them ; and within a little while' the afflicted were most of 
them delivered out of their troubles also ; and the land had peace restored unto it, by 
the God of peace, treading Satan under foot. 

Salem is situated in latitude 42° 35' north, and in longitude 70° 47' 
west. It is the chief and a shire town in Essex county, and from 
the early period of its history has been a place of importance. Its 
enterprising merchants were the first, in this country, to engage in 
the East India trade, which they have prosecuted with great energy 
and success. They have also taken an active part in the com- 
merce with the West Indies, South America, and Europe. Perhaps 
the greatest degree of the commercial prosperity of Salem was pre- 
vious to the war with Great Britain in 1812. Salem is built on a pe- 
ninsula formed by two inlets of the sea, called North and South 
rivers. The lower or eastern part of the peninsula is called the 
Neck, and has now but few houses upon it. The compact part of 
the town is aboitt a mile and a half in length, and half a mile iji 
breadth. The land on which it is built lies low and is nearly 
level, scarcely any place being more than 20 or 24 feet above the 
surface of the water at high tide. The soil is generally light, dry, 
and sandy, and free from standing water. There are many islands 
in the harbor, most of them small and rocky. Winter Island lies 
on the north side of the entrance to the harbor, and contains 38 
acres. Fort Pickering is located on its eastern point. The light- 
houses are on Baker^s Island, which contains 55 acres. 

The streets of the town run somewhat irregularly. Essex street 



SALEM 



225 



the most noted, runs directly through the whole extent of the place, 
nearly east and west. The numerous streets are filled with well- 
built houses, many of which are elegant, particularly some of 
those in the vicinity of the Cormnon; a view of which, taken 




Western vkiv of Washington Square, Saltm. 

near the western entrance, is here given. This common is a beau- 
tiful plot of eight and a half acres, almost perfectly level, enclosed 
by a neat railing, bordered by a large number of elms, and tra- 
versed by gravel walks. The ^' East India Marine Society ^^ was 
incorporated in 1801. It has a spacious hall, in which is collected 
a great variety of natural and artificial curiosities, collected from 
almost every part of the world. There are in )Salem 16 churches: 
8 Congregational, 4 of which are Unitarian, 2 Baptist, 1 Episcopal, 
1 Friends, 1 Christian, 1 Universalist, 1 Catholic, 1 Methodist; 
besides these there is a Seamen's Bethel. There are eight banks, 
whose united capitals amount to $1,8-50,000. There are six insur- 
ance companies, the capital of which is nearly a million of dollars. 
Six newspapers are published, 3 weekly and 3 twice a week. 
The Salem Laboratory was incorporated in 1819, and has a capi- 
tal of $150,000. At this establishment are manufactured great 
quantities of aquafortis, muriatic acid or spirits of salt, oil of vitriol, 
and alum. Of this last from 800,000 to one million pounds are 
made annually. About 300,000 pounds of saltpetre are also refilled 
annually. There are two white lead manufacturing establishments 
in South Salem, at which much business is done. To one of them 
is attached an India rubber factory. The tonnage of the district 
of Salem, which includes Beverly, is 34,906 tons. There are 30 
ships, 12 barks, 70 brigs, 124 schooners, and 14 sloops. The popu- 
lation of Salem in 1800 was 9,457; in 1810, 12,613; in 1820, 
12,731 ; in 1830, 13,886 ; in 1837, 14,985. 

The first Congregational church in Salem was organized Aug. 6, 
3629, O. S., and is stated to be the first Protestant church formed in 



226 



SALEM. 



the neiD world.* Tlie brethren at Plymouth belonged to a church 
which remained at Leyden, and are supposed not to have estab- 
lished themselves as a distinct church until after the formation 
of this at Salem. The following is a list of the pastors of this 
church, and year in which they were settled. 



Francis Higginson, 
Samuel Skelton, 
Roger Williams, 
Hugh Peters, 
Edward Norris, 



1629. 
1629. 
1631. 
1636. 
1640. 



John Higginson, 
Nicholas Noyes, 
George Curwen, 
Samuel Fiske, 
John Sparhawk, 



1660. 
1683. 
1714. 

1718. 
1736. 



Thomas Barnard, 1755. 

Asa Dunbar, 1772. 

John Prince, 1779. 

Charles W. Upham, 1824. 



Roger Williams and Hugh Peters, whose names are in the above list, were both dis- 
tinguished men. Mr. Williams was banished from the settlements on account of cer- 
tain opinions which were deemed heretical. He retired into the wilderness, among 
savages, to a place which he named Providmce, and became the founder of Rhode 
Island. Peters was a man of strong powers of mind. He did not confine his atten- 
tion to the ministry, but entered v/ith zeal into the political affairs of the nation. He 
went to England about the period of the civil wars, and supported the cause of the 
parliament by his preaching. After the restoration of monarchy in England, he was 
executed as a regicide, in 1660, aged sixty-one years. 

Ho?i. Nathaniel Boivditch, LL. D., F. R. S., one of the most 
celebrated mathematicians of the age, was a native of this town. 
He was born March 2Gth, 1773. His ancestors for three genera- 
tions had been ship-masters, and his father on retiring from that 
business " carried on the trade of a cooper, by which he gained a 
scanty and precarious subsistence for a family of seven children." 




The early residence of Dr. Boivditch. 

The above is a representation of the house, in Dan vers, in which 
Dr. Bowditch lived with his mother when a child, when his father 
was far off upon the sea. She used to sit at the chamber window 
and " show him the new moon." The advantages of a school he 
was obliged to forego at the early age of ten years, that he might go 
into his father's shop and help support the family. He was soon, 
however, apprenticed to a ship-chandler, in whose shop he conti- 
nued until he went to sea, first as a clerk, then as supercargo, and 
finally as master and supercargo jointly. AVhilst he was in the ship- 
chandler's shop, he manifested that genius for mathematical pur- 
suits, for which he afterwards became so distinguished. In 1823 
he removed to Boston, where he continued to reside till his death, 

* Newhall's Essex Memorial, 1836. 



SALISBURY. 227 

on the 16th of March, 1838. The following resolves on the occa- 
sion of his death, will serve to show the estimation in which Dr. 
Bowditch was held. 

At a special meeting of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, held March 
20th, 1838, the following resolves -were presented by his excellency Edward Everett, 
and adopted unanimously by the Fellows of the Academy : — 

Resolved, That the Fellows of th« American Academy of Arts and Sciences entertain 
the liveliest sense of the exalted talents and extraordinary attainments of their late presi- 
dent, who stood pre-eminent among the men of science in the United States, and who, 
by universal consent, has long been regarded as one of the most distinguished mathe- 
maticians and astronomers of the age ; that we consider his reputation as one of the 
most precious treasures of our common country ; that we deeply deplore his loss in the 
fullness of his intellectual power ; and that we esteem it our sacred duty to cherish his 
memory. 

Resolved, That in addition to the loss which they have sustained, as members of 
this scientific body, in being deprived of their distinguished associate and head, whose 
name has for many years conferred honor on their institution, and whose communica- 
tions are among the most valuable contents of the volumes of the Academy's Memoirs, 
the Fellows of the Academy, as members of the community, lament the loss of a 
friend and fellow-citizen, whose services were of the highest value in the active walks 
of life ; — whose entire influence was given to the cause of good principles ; — whose 
life was a uniform exhibition of the loftiest virtues ;— and who, with a firmness and 
energy which nothing could shake or subdue, devoted himself to the most arduous 
and important duties, and made the profoundest researches of science subservient to 
the practical business of life. 

" The connection of the deceased with the Boston Athenaeum was so beneficial to thu 
institution, that the trustees are urged alike by oflicial duty and by private feeling to 
express their sense of his loss. This institution is deeply indebted to the late Dr. 
Bowditch for the zeal with which he labored to advance its interests. Finding it weak, 
he determined, in connection with several other public-spirited individuals, to make it 
prosper. Their appeals to the munificence of our wealthy citizens were successful, and 
the resources of the Athenaeum were greatly increased. For several years Dr. Bow- 
ditch, continuing a member of this Board, aided in the application of the funds which 
he had done so much to procure, and the high rank which the scientific portion of our 
library enjoys among similar institutions in the United States, is in a great measure 
owing to his judgment and exertions. 

" But Dr. Bowditch has far higher claims to notice. He stood at the head of the scien- 
tific men of this country, and no man living has contributed more to his country's 
reputation. His fame is of the most durable kind, resting on the union of the highest 
genius with the most practical talent, and the application of both to the good of his 
fel'oA men. Every American ship crosses the ocean more safely for his labors, and 
the most eminent mathematicians of Europe have acknowledged him their equal in 
the highest walks of their science. His last great work ranks with the noblest pro- 
ductions of our age." — Extract from the Records of the Boston AthencBum. 

The following is from a granite monument in this place. 

Beneath this monument are deposited the remains of Timothy Ac Rebecca Pick- 
ering. He was an assertor of the rights of the North American Colonies, a soldier in 
the War for their Independence, a Statesman in the cabinet of Washington. Integrity, 
disinterestedness, energy, ability, fearlessness in the cause of Truth and Justice, 
marked his public conduct : pure in morals, simple in manners, sincere, benevolent, 
and pious in private life, he was revered and honored. She, during a life of extraor- 
dinary vicissitude, was distinguished by fortitude, resignation, discretion, maternal 
affection ; in the words of her bereaved husband, " A spirit more gentle, more inno- 
cent, more pure, never perhaps appeared in the female form." He was born July 17th, 
1745, and she on the 18th of the same month, 1754 : she died August 14th, 1828, he 
January 29th, 1829. 



SALISBURY 



Salisbury is the oldest town in Massachusetts on the north 
bank of the Merrimac, it being incorporated in 1640. The Rev. 



228 SALISBURY. 

John Wheelwright, the brother of the famous Mrs. Hutchinsou, and 
founder of Exeter, N. H., was minister here some time, and died 
here in 1679, at a very advanced age. He embraced Mrs. Hutch- 
inson's antinomian sentiments, and on this account was banished 
from the jurisdiction of Massachusetts : he was, however, restored 
afterwards on confession. Several sessions of the general court 
have been held here : an important sitting was had in 1737, for the 
purpose of settling the boundary between New Hampshire and 
Massachusetts ; the legislature of New Hampshire sitting at Hamp- 
ton, the adjoining town, at the same time. 

The first church in this town was formed in 1638; the first pas- 
tor was Rev. William Worcester, who came from Salisbury in 
England, and was settled at the organization of the church. He 
died in 1662, and was succeeded by Rev. John Wheelwright, of 
whom some mention has been made. The third pastor was Rev. 
John Ailing, who settled here in 1687, and died 1696 ; he Avas suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Caleb Gushing, in 1698. The fifth pastor was Rev. 
Edmund Noyes, who settled here in 1751, and died 1809. The 
second Congregational church was founded in 1718. The first 
Baptist society v\'"as founded in 1779; the Methodist in 180.5; the 
Christian in 1820: the Universalist in 1831; the Congregational 
Evangelical Union in 1835; and the Salisbuiy and Amesbury 
Mills Christian Union Society in 1833. 

Salisbury is a flourishing town, and most of the soil is good. 
The town is bordered on the river opposite Newburyport by a salt 
marsh, one mile and a half in extent; beyond that the ground rises 
and is gently uneven ; it grows narrower farther up the river. 
On the sea-shore is a beach of yellow sand, over which in high 
tides the sea sometimes rushes to a great extent. There are three 
villages in the township — one opposite Newburyport ; another, 
called the Point, at the mouth of Powow river, where formerly 
much ship-building was carried on ; the other forms part of the 
Mills village. (See Amesbury.) 

In the limits of the town there were in 1837 1 cotton mill, 2 
woollen mills, with 20 sets of machinery ; 850.000 yards of cloth 
were manufactured, the value of which was $275,000; males em- 
ployed, 200; females, 100. Shoes manufactured, 65,500 pairs, 
valued at $40,800 ; males employed, 87 ; females, 48. Nine ves- 
sels were employed in the cod and mackerel fishery ; hands 
employed, 45. In five years preceding 1837, there were 47 vessels 
built ; tonnage, 3,975 ; valued at $89.644 ; hands employed in ship- 
building, 81. The continental frigate Alliance was built here 
during the Revolution. Population, 2,675. Distance, 35 miles 
N. E. from Boston. 

A tornado which took place in this vicinity, on the 1st of 
August, 1773, is thus described in a publication of that period : — 

The tornado took its course from the east, first struck Salisbury Point, and, following 
the course of the IMerrimac river, spread liavoc before it for the space of a mile in 
width, extending to Haverhill. The devastation was almost beyond conception or 
description. Almost every house and building from Salisbury Point to a quarter of a 
mile above Amesburj' feiry, was levelled with the ground, uprooted, or otherwise dam 



s A u G u s . 229 

aged. ACapt. Smith, who belonged to Beverly, was sitting in a sail-maker's loft, at 
Amesbury, when the storm commenced, and in a moment he and the whole build- 
ing were carried away together, the building rent to pieces and dispersed. Capt. 
Smith was found lying senseless ninety-four feet from the sill of the loft he was car- 
ried from ; one of his legs was broken, and he was otherwise bruised. A large white 
oak post, fourteen feet in length, and twelve by ten inches, was transported one hun- 
dred and thirty-eigiit feet. Two vessels of ninety tons, building in Amesbury, were 
lifted from the blocks, and carried sidewise ihrougk the air twenty-two feet. A large 
bundle of shingles was taken from the ground, and thrown three hundred and thirty 
feet, in an opposite direction to that of the post above mentioned, and at right angles 
lo the course the vessels were carried. Large trees were torn up by the roots and cast 
into the river. Large oak planks were hurled, with the velocity of cannon balls, 
through tlve roofs of houses ; and, in fine, during tlie hurricane, which lasted a few 
minutes only, the air was filled with every thing that could be moved, whirling with 
the most surprising rapidity through the air, and surrounding the affrighted inhabi- 
tants, some of whom were taken up by the winds, carried a considerable way, and let 
do-\\Ti safe ; others were buried in their cellars, but were dug out without receiving 
any hurt. About one hundred and fifty buildings fell. 

In Haverhill, the inhabitants fled in consternation from one large dM'elling-house, 
which was blown down, and thought to save themselves in a barn, which was almost 
new, and filled with about thirty tons of hay ; but the barn was entirely blowm to 
pieces, in another moment, and some parts of it carried to the distance of three miles. 

This tempest was preceded by heavy rain and gross darkness ; and it appeared 
first on the Merrimac river, which was in the utmost tumult, rolling upon the banks, 
and tlireateuing to swallow up the aflfrighted inhabitants. 



SAUGUS. 

This town formed the west parish of Lynn till 1815, when it 
was incorporated as a distinct town, and received the name of 
iSaugus, the Indian name of Lynn. The first church (the third 
of Lynn) was founded here in 1736, and Rev. Edward Cheever 
was settled here in 1739; the Rev. Joseph Rohy in 1752; Rev. 
William Frothingham in 1804 ; Rev. Joseph Emerson in 1821 ; 
Rev, Ephraim Randall in 1826 ; and Rev. Sidney Holman in 1833. 
The Methodist society was organized in 1810 ; there is also a society 
of Universalists in this town. 

This town is centrally intersected by Saugus river, which winds 
its way through its whole length, with numerous bends. On the 
banks of the river are meadows and marsh lands, and the salt 
marshes near the sea are very extensive. The greater part of the 
rest of the township is rough and uneven, and to a considerable 
extent covered with wood. The land upon the river is generally 
good, well cultivated, and productive. In 1837, there were manu- 
factured in this town 190.326 pairs of shoes, the value of which 
was $149,847; males employed, 269; females, 114. Snutfand 
cigars were manufactured to the value of $27,473, and 62 persons 
were employed in the manufacture. There is also a woollen fac- 
tory and dying establishment. Population, 1,123. Distance, 3 
miles from Lynn, 10 from Salem, and 9 from Boston. 

An iron mine was discovered at an early period on the west bank 
of the Saugus, and as early as 1645 iron works were established by 
a company in England. The village at the foundry was called Ham- 
TTiersmith by some of the workmen, who came from a place of that 
name in England. Iron was manufactured here for more than one 



230 TOPSFIELI>. 

hundred years, but seldom in large quantities. Heaps of scoria or 
cinder banks are still to be seen near where the works stood. 

In 1658 there was a great earthquake in New England, con- 
nected with which is the following story, which is taken from Mr. 
Lewis' History of Lynn. 

Some time previous, on one pleasant evening, a little after sunset,, a small vessel 
was seen to anchor near the mouth of Saugns river. A boat was presently lowered 
from her side, into which four men descended, and moved up the river a considerable 
distance, when they landed, and proceeded directly into the woods. They had been 
noticed by only a few individuals ; but in those early times, when the people were 
surrounded by danger, and easily susceptible of alarm, such an incident was well cal- 
culated to awaken suspicion, and in the course of the evening the intelligence was 
conveyed to many houses. In the morning, the people naturally directed their eyes 
toward the shore, in search of the strange vessel — but she was gone, and no trace 
could be found either of her or her singular crew. It was afterwards ascertained that, 
on that mornuig, one of tlie men at the iron works, on going into the foundry, dis- 
covered a paper, on which was written, that if a quantity of shackles, handcufl's, 
hatchets, and other articles of iron manufacture, were made and deposited, with 
gecrecy, in a certain place in the woods, which was particularly designated, an amount 
of silver, to their full value, would be found in their place. The articles were made m 
a few days, and placed in conformity with the directions. On the next morning they 
were gone, and the money was found according to the promise ; but though a watch 
had been kept, no vessel was seen. Some months afterward, the four men returned, 
and selected one of the most secluded and romantic spots in the woods of Saugus, for 
their abode. The place of their retreat was a deep narrow valley, shut in on two 
sides by high hills and craggy precipitous rocks, and shrouded on the others by thick 
pines, hemlocks, and cedars, between which there was only one small spot to which the 
Jays of the sun at noon could penetrate. On climbing up the rude and almosi perpen- 
dicular steps of the rock on the eastern side, the eye could command a full view 
of the bay on the south, and a prospect of a considerable portion of the surrounding 
country. The place of their retreat has ever since been called the Pirates' Glen, and 
they could not have selected a spot on the coast for many miles, more favorable for the 
purposes both of concealment and observation. Even at this day, when the neighbor- 
hood has become thickly peopled, it is still a lonely and desolate place, and probably 
not one in a hundred of the inhabitants has ever descended into its silent and gloomy 
recess. There the pirates built a small hut, made a garden, and dug a well, the 
appearance of which is still visible. It has been supposed that they buried money ; 
but though people have dug there, and in several other places, none has ever been 
found. After residing there some time, their retreat became known, and one of the 
king's cruisers appeared on the coast. They were traced to their glen, and three of 
them were taken and carried to England, where it is probable they were executed. 
The other, whose name was Thomas Veal, escaped to a rock in the woods, about two 
miles to the north, in which M'as a spacious cavern, where the pirates had previously 
deposited some of their plunder. There the fugitive fixed his residence, and practised the 
trade of a shoemaker, occasionally coming down to the village to obtain articles of suste- 
nance. He continued his residence till the great earthqitake this year, when the top 
of the rock was loosened, and crushed down into the mouth of the cavern, enclosing the 
unfortunate inmate in its unyielding prison. It has ever since been called the Pirate's 
})ungeon. A part of the cavern is still open, and is much visited by the curious. 



TOPSFIELD. 

This town was at the time of its settlement called New Meadows. 
It was settled about 1639, but Avas not incorporated till 1650 
The first settlers were from Salem and Ipswich. The names of 
some of the principal inhabitants were Bradstreet, Clark, Cum- 
mings. Smith, Town, Wildes, and Easty. Mr. Knight and Mr. 
Wm. Perkins were preachers here before the formation of a church. 



W E N H A M . 23 I 

Mr. Perkins died in 1682. A church was formed and Rev. 
Thomas Gilbert was ordained in 1663; he was dismissed in 1671, 
and succeeded by Rev. Jeremiah Hobart the next year. Mr. Ho- 
bart was dismissed in 1680. Rev. Joseph Capen, his successor, 
was ordained in 1684. Rev. John Emerson, the next pastor, was 
ordained in 1728, and died in 1774. Rev. Daniel Breck, his suc- 
cessor, was ordained in 1779, and dismissed in 1788. Rev. Asa- 
hel Huntington was the next minister, in 1789, and died in 1813. 
Rev. Rodney G. Dennis was ordained in 1820. The Methodist 
society in this place was formed in 1830. 

The surface of the township is uneven, and there are some hills 
of considerable elevation. The plain on which the church stands, 
and the sides of the hills around it, present a pleasant prospect. 
There are some handsome buildings and an academy in the place. 
Newburyport turnpike passes a short distance from the meeting- 
house. Population, 1,049. Distance, 9 miles from Salem, 13 from 
Haverhill, and 21 from Boston. In 1837, there were 900 pairs of 
boots and 124,396 pairs of shoes manufactured in this town; 272 
males and 269 females were employed in this business. The value 
of boots and shoes manufactured was estimated at $98,676. 



WENHAM. 

The first regular settlement in this town appears to have been 
made about the year 1639. It was then called JE)ion, and was 
within the limits of Salem. It was incorporated a town in 1643. 
The first sermon ever preached in the town was by the celebrated 
Hugh Peters, then minister of Salem, about the year 1636. It 
was on a small conical hill, on the bank of the pond, and the text 
was, " At JEiion, near Salem, because there was much water thereP 
The first church was gathered here in 1644, and the first pastor 
Rev. John Fisk. In 1656, he removed with a large part of his 
church to Chelmsford, and commenced the settlement of that 
town. The following is a list of the succeeding pastors of this 
church, with the year of their settlement : Antipas Newman, set- 
tled in 1663 ; Joseph Gerrish, in 1675 ; Robert Ward, in 1712 ; John 
Warren, in 1733 ; Joseph Swain, in 1750; Adonijah Judson, in 
1792 ; Rufus Anderson, in 1805 ; John Smith, in 1817 ; Ebenezer 
P. Sperry, in 1820. A Baptist church was formed in 1831. 

There is no compact settlement in this town, the inhabitants 
heing mostly farmers, and live scattered about on their farms. 
The surface of the land is generally level, and the soil good. The 
township is about six miles in length, and but a little more than 
one in breadth. Wenham pond is considered to be one of the 
most beautiful sheets of water in the county ; it is large, and pre- 
sents an uncommonly romantic appearance ; about one third of it 
lies within the bounds of Beverly. Wenham swamp, so called, 
lies in the north-western section of the township, and extends into 
Hamilton. The Manchester woods extend over a considerable 



232 WEST NEWBURY. 

part of the eastern end of this town. Population, 698. Distance, 
6 miles from Salem, and 21 from Boston. 

In the journal of John Duntan, a gentleman who travelled in this country in 168b, 
this town is thus noticed : "Wenham is a delicious paradise; it abounds with rural 
pleasures, and I would choose it above all other towns in America to dwell in. The 
lofty trees on each side of it are a sufficient shelter for the winds, and the warm sun so 
kindly ripens both the fruits and flowers, as if the spring, the summer and the autumn 
had agreed together to thrust winter out of doors." The same writer, speaking of 
Joseph Gerrish, the minister, says — " 'T were endless to enter on a detail of each 
faculty of learning Mr. Gerrish is master of, and therefore take his character in short 
hand. The philosopher, is acute, ingenious and subtle. The divine, curious, orthodox 
and profound. The man, of a majestic air, without austerity or sourness ; his aspect 
is masterly, yet not imperious or haughty. The Christian, is devout, without morose- 
ness or starts of holy frenzy and enthusiasm. The preacher, is primitive, without the 
occasional colors of whining or cant ; and methodical, without intricacy or affectation ; 
and, which crowns his character, he is a man of pubUc spirit, zealous for the conver- 
sion of the Indians, and of great hospitahty to strangers. He gave us a noble dinner, 
and entertained us with sQCh pleasant fruits as I must own Old England is a stran- 
ger to." 



WEST NEWBURY. 



This town was settled at an early period, and was within the 
limits of Newbury. It was incorporated as a distinct town in 1819. 
The first church in this town was the second of Newbury. The 
first pastor was Rev. Samuel Belcher, who was settled here in 
1698. The succession of ministers in this church is as follows : 
John Tufts, settled here in 1714; Thomas Barnard, in 1739; 
Moses Hale, in 1752; True Kimball, in 1782; Samuel Tomb, in 
1798; Ebenezer Hubbard, in 1809; Gilbert T. Williams, in 1814; 
Henry C. Wright, in 1826 ; Benjamin Ober, in 1834. The sec- 
ond Congregational church (the fourth of Newbury) was formed 
in 1731. Rev. William Johnson was the first pastor, settled in 
1731; David Tappan, in 1774; Leonard Woods, in 1798; John 
Kirby, in 1816 ; Elijah Demond, in 1821 ; Paul Couch, in 1827. 
The Friends have a meeting-house in this town. 

The town occupies an elevated situation on the south bank of 
the Merrimac. The soil is excellent, and grain and hay are pro- 
duced in great quantities. The butler and cheese made in this 
town are held in high estimation. Fruit is also produced in abun- 
dance. The town is connected with Rocks village, Haverhill, by 
an excellent bridge over the Merrimac, one thousand feet in length. 
This bridge was built in 1828; the one previous was erected in 
1796, but was swept away in the great freshet of 1818. From 
the elevated grounds in this town many fine prospects of the sur- 
rounding scenery are obtained. Population, 1,448. Distance, 6 
miles from Newburyport, 20 from Lowell, and 34 from Boston. 



A S H F I EL » 



233 



FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

Franklin county was originally the north part of Hampshire 
county: it was incorporated as a distinct county in 1811. Con- 
necticut river passes centrally through the county from north to 
south, and Deerfield river passes from west to east centrally 
through the western, and Miller's river from east to west through 
the eastern part of the county. Few tracts of country exceed this 
for the extent and value of its water powers. The great body of 
the people are engaged in agricultural pursuits. The fine grazing 
lands found upon the verdant hills and fertile valleys, enable the 
farmers in this section to raise large droves of fat cattle for market. 
The manufacturing interests have received considerable attention 
of late years, and are increasing in value and importance. The 
following is a list of the towns, w'hich are 26 in number. 



Ashfield, 


Erving, 


Monroe, 


Shutesbury, 


Bernardston, 


Gill, 


Montague, 


Sunderland, 


Buckland, 


Greenfield, 


New Salem, 


Warwick, 


Charlemont, 


Hawley, 


Northfield 


Wendall, 


Coleraine, 


Heath, 


Orange, 


Whately. 


Conway, 


Leverett, 


Rowe, 




Deerfield, 


Leyden, 


Shelburne, 





In 1820, the population of this county was 29,268 ; in 1830, it 
was 29,344; in 1837, it was 28,655. 



ASHFIELD. 

The territory comprising this town was granted to Capt. Ephraim 
Hunt, of Weymouth, as a compensation for services rendered in 
the Canada expedition of 1690. It was actually conveyed to his 
heirs forty-six years afterwards, and was settled by a few families 
in 1742. It was incorporated as a town in 1764 ; previous to that 
time it went by the name of Huntstoicn^ from the name of its ori- 
ginal proprietor. Richard Ellis, a native of Ireland, was the first 
permanent settler ; Thomas PhiHips, with his family, from Easton, 
was the next ; Chileab Smith, from South Hadley, was the third 
settler. These persons all settled in the north-eastern part of the 
town. Mr. Chileab Smith settled on the farm now owned and oc- 
cupied by his son Chileab, who is 96 years of age, and in good 
health at this time, (1837.) 

The first regular church formed in this town was of the Baptist 
denomination. It was constituted in July, 1761, and consisted of 
nine members. In the following August the Rev. Ebenezer Smith, 
the eldest son of Chileab Smith, was ordained its pastor. He was 
succeeded in 1798 by elder Enos Smith, who deceased about two 
years since. The Congregational church in this town was formed 
by an ecclesiastical council, Feb. 22d, 1763, and Rev. Jacob Sher- 



234 BEKNARDSTON. 

■will ordained its pastor the same year. Rev. Nehemiah Porter 
succeeded him in 1774, and died Feb. 29th, 1820, aged 99 years 
and 11 months. Rev. Alvan Sanderson was ordained colleague 
pastor in 18US. Rev. Thomas Shepherd succeeded Mr. Sanderson 
in 1819. Rev. Mason Grosvenor, the next pastor, was installed 
1833; he was succeeded by Rev, Burr Baldwin, in 1836. In 
1820 an Episcopal society was formed in this town, and they have 
a handsome church in the center of the place. There is also a 
small society of Methodists. 

Ashfield is a little over six miles square. The face of the toAvn- 
ship is une\^en and hilly, better adapted for grazing than tillage. 
There is, however, much good tillage land interspersed among the 
hills. The principal productions are corn, potatoes, oats, and of 
late wheat. Some of the farmers have large dairies. In 1837, 
there were in this town 8,021 merino sheep, which produced 
24,063 lbs. of wool. There are four churches, 2 for Baptists, 1 
Congregational, and 1 Episcopal. The central village consists 
of about twenty dwelling-houses, an Episcopal church, an aca- 
demy, and a number of mercantile stores. Distance, 18 miles from 
Greenfield, 18 from Northampton, and 105 to Boston. Population 
of the town, 1,656. 



BERNARDSTON. 



In 1735, the general assembly of the province of Massachusetts Bay 
granted a tract of land six miles square, north of Greenfield, inclu- 
ding the present towns of Bernardston and Leyden, and a part 
of Coleraine, to the officers and soldiers who were in the Fall Fight ^ 
an account of which may be found under the head of Gill. In 
consideration of the services and sufferings of these men, the tract 
above mentioned was granted to them or their descendants 59 
years after the battle. From the fact that this battle took place at 
the Falls^ the town took the name of Fall Town, which it was 
called for nearly 20 years. The first meeting of the owners of this 
tract of country was held at Northampton, in .Tanuary, 1736, the 
next month after it was granted by the legislature. The proprie- 
tors were 97 ; among the names of these were the following : Ather- 
ton, Field, Hitchcock, Cook, Chamberlain, Alexander, Chapin, 
Connable, Dickinson, Edwards, Hoit, Lyman, Munn, Hunt, Smith, 
Wright, Pomeroy, Pratt, Rogers, Sikes, Smead, Scott, Wells. 
The town was first settled in 1738. The four first houses that 
were built in town were Major Burk's, Mr. Samuel Connable's, 
Lieut. Ebenezer Sheldon's, and Dea. Sheldon's. Major Burk's 
house was situated a little north of the present bark-house ; Mr. S. 
Connable's stood near the house now occupied by Mr. .Toseph Con- 
nable ; Lieut. E. Sheldon's house was situated a little west of Mr. 
Hatsell Purple's late residence: and Dea. Sheldon's stood near 
Mr. Seorin Slate's, on Huckle Hill. 



BERNARDSTON. 235 

These houses, or forts, as they were called, were huilt of hewn logs, and served the 
double purpose of houses to live in, and a defence against the sudden, and often fatal, 
attacks of the Indians. They were built with port-holes through the sides, through 
which those within could fire, with elevated stands for a watch, where they could better 
see the approach of the enemy, and give the alarm. These houses were occujiied by 
those by whose name they were called, and the occupants were among the first settlers 
in this town. At a proprietors' meeting held in Deerfield, in .Tune, 1739, it was voted 
that a meeting-house should be built, 59 feet long, 40 feet wide, and 23 feet between 
joists. This house was built in two years after tlie first settlement of the town. It 
was situated on Huokle Hill, and was the first meeting-house built in Fall Town. In Oct. 
1740, it was voted that there be £20 paid out for the support of preaching. And at an 
adjourned meeting it was voted that a committee be chosen to cut the brush and hum them 
tenrods round the meeting-house. Rev. John Norton, from Windham, Con., the first minister, 
was ordained in 1741, and was dismissed, on account of the unsettled state of the times, in 
1745. In the first French war, he acted for a sea.son as chaplain at the fort which was 
kept at Hoosic, near Adams. He was there at the time that fort was surprised and 
taken by a party of French and Indians, M'hence he was carried captive into Canada. 
After his release, he was installed a pastor in Chatham, Con. From 1750 to 1761 there 
was no ordained preacher in Fall Town. The Rev. Job Wright, the next minister, 
was settled in 1761. About 1753, commenced the French and Indian war, in which 
the settlers in the town sufl'ered severely ; while -li continued, the people lived mostly 
in Burk's fort. Every man that was capable, bore arms, and, in some ca.ses, females 
were under the necessity of bearing arms to defend their dwellings from the attacks of 
a barbarous enemy. When the men went into the fields, they took their arms with 
them, and constantly had some one on guard. Agriculture and education were but 
little attended to. The Indians were almost constantly lurking in l;he woods, which 
kept them in a perpetual state of danger and alarm. 

Fall Town was incorporated into a township in 1762, by tlie name 
of Bernardston, after Governor Bernard, the provincial gavernor of 
Massachusetts. The first selectmen were Messrs. John Burk, Re- 
memberence Sheldon and Moses Scott. During the Revolutionary- 
war the inhabitants of Bernardston furnished their full quota-of men 
and means during tlie continuance of the struggle, and made many 
sacrifices for the American cause. In Jan. 1782. a vote was passed 
"that those persons who are professed Baptists, and have attended 
that particular form of worship, shall be free from the minister tax;" 
this appears to be the first account of the Baptist society in this town. 
The Rev. AmasaCook, the third settled minister in this town, was or- 
dained in Dec. 1783. In 1790, the first census was taken by Mr. David 
Saxton, of Deerfield, by order of the general government. The 
population of the town at that period was 691, being divided into 
108 families. In 1789 the Baptist society wajs organized, and in 
1790 their first meeting-house was built, and the same year Elder 
Hodge was ordained, and continued here about ten years. He 
was succeeded by Elder Rogers and Elder Green. The present 
Baptist meeting-house was built in 1817. In 1821 the Universal- 
ist society v.^as organized, and their meeting-house was -built in 
1823, and the same year Dr. Brooks was ordained as minister. The 
first Orthodox Congregational society was organized in 1823. 

The following is a representation of the public buildings and 
Cushman's tavern, in the central part of the village, as they appear 
when passing through to the northAvard. The Universalist church 
is the one-story building with four windows, on the western side ; 
Cushman's tavern appears on the left. The distance between this 
tavern and the Universalist church is about 35 rods. In the engra- 



236 



B E R N A R D S T O N . 




.S'" /"/(-/;> s? citir «J litrnii,-il>in/i. [i-i./itrai part.) 

ving this distance is coiitraded, and some buildings are left out, in 
order to show Mr. Cushman's house, long known as an excellent 
tavern stand, and, with the elms standing south, is a very striking 
feature in the appearance of this village. Within the distance of 
half a mile from this place there are upwards of fifty dwelling- 
houses, which, though mostly small, are neat in their general ap- 
pearance. Distance, 7 miles from Greenfield, 13 from Brattlehoro', 
Vt., and 96 from Boston. Agriculture is the principal business of 
the inhabitants. Population. S7S. 

The following is a letter of Maj. John Burk, (one of the prin- 
cipal men of Bernardston,) to his wife, giving an account of 
the battle of Lake George. For this, and the journal of Maj. 
Burk, together with the materials for the preceding historical 
sketch, the author is indebted to the politeness of Henry W. 
Cushman, Esq., of Bernardston. 

Lake Sacrament, now called Lake George, Sept. 11, 1755. 

Dear Wife : I wrote to you yesterday, but was not allowed to say any more than that 
I was well, and that we have had a battle, &c. The particulars of the engagement I 
now send you by Capt. Wyman. On the 7th inst., our Indians discovered the track of a 
large body of the enemy east of us. On the 8th, Col. Williams, with a detachment 1000 
strong, marched in pursuit, or to make discovery. They marched in the road 3 miles 
south, and being discovered by the enemy, (as we are told by the French general who is 
taken by us,) were M-aylaid by 1800 French and Indians. The French lay on one side 
the road on rising ground ; "the Indians on the other side, in a swamp. Part of the 
French were regular troops ; these lay south. Their scheme was to let our men march 
quite to the south end of the ambush, the regular troops to give the first fire, then all 
to fire and rush on ; which if they had done, they would have cut our men all to pieces. 
But the general says that a heady Indian, who was very eager, fired as soon as they 
entered the ambush. Then the enemy pursued and fired briskly, and, having the ad- 
vantage of the ground, obliged our men to retreat, which, the French general says, they 
did very regularly. We at the camp heard the gtins ; were not suffered to go out, but to 
make ready to receive the enemy, lest they should rout us and take our baggage, for 
we knew tliey retreated by the guns, (viz. our men.) The enemy drove on very furi- 
ously, but while they were coming we placed our cannon, felled trees and rolled logs to 
make a breast-work all round the camp, but it was a poor defence. The regulars 
marched along the road, 6 deep, till they got near our camps ; then all fired upon us, 



BERNARDSTON. 237 

and we upon them \nth cannon and small arms. They made a very smart push, but 
we stood firm, and I believe there was never such firing before, and had not our can- 
non broke their regulars and affrighted their Indians, they might, perhaps, destroyed 
more of us, if not taken the camps. The battle began between 10 and 11 ; continued 
till between 5 and 6 afternoon, at which time we were so hot upon them, that they be- 
gan to draw off. Our men pursued some way ; we were so fast upon them that they 
left their dead and wounded on the spot. The enemy all drew ofl'to where they am- 
bushed our men at the first. While we were engaged, the peo])le at the other fort, 
at the carrying place, heard our great guns, and sent 200 New Hampshire and N. York 
men to relieve us. These met the enemy stripping our dead, engaged them smartly, 
drove them oti'the ground. They fought 3 hours, took 2 prisoners and 2 scalps. We 
have taken about 25 prisoners in all. One is the general of all the French forces in 
North America. Another officer, called aid-de-camp, who was stunned by a cannon- 
ball and lay till night, came in and surrendered himself. The French general is 
wounded in the knee and in the thigh, and hke to recover. Some of the captives are 
dead, others very badly wounded. One is Mr. Thos. French's sister's son, cousin to 
Lue., He says that Lue was killed in the engagement. We have had a very smart 
battle, but got the victory. The French general says we have broke his army all to 
pieces. We have been out and buried our dead, and got a great deal of plunder, guns, 
blankets, provisions, &c. We have lost some famous men in the battle, a list of which 
I send, belonging to our regiment, and also of the wounded and missing, as far as I am 
able. [Here follows a list of the dead and ivounded, cf-c] 

This is the best account I can get at present of the dead, wounded and missing. 
Let cousin Chapin know that her dear husband is certainly dead and buried. Joel and 
Hezekiah are well. I can sympathize with her, for it is a great loss to me, as we were 
friends and neighbors. Pray God to comfort her. Hope our friends will not be dis- 
heartened at this news, and so fail of coming to assist us. They that love their religion 
and liberty I hope will not fail to come to the help of the Lord against the mighty. 
Now is the time to exert ourselves. 

P. S, I have wrote in great haste, not so well as if otherwise. I received a letter 
from you last night. Pray send as often as you can. The army is in high spirits. 
Hope we shall have Crown Point sooner or later. We have done a good job toward it. 

Loving wife, since the scout is detained till to-morrow, I add something more. Yes- 
terday we buried on the road 136 dead corpses of ours ; to-day 4. I believe about 15 
or 20 more buried at the camp. Several of our Indians are killed. King Hendrick is 
killed. The day after the battle, every captain carried in an account of dead, wound- 
ed and missing. The whole of the dead and missing was 191, and about 224 wounded 
in our regiment. Since this account several are come in that were missing. Col. Titcom 
is killed ; Capt. Regas is dead — killed. I mention those because some may know them. 
The account carried in was as Iblloweth : Col. Williams' regiment, 50. Col. Ruggles' 
regiment and others I must omit ; I cannot find the account. The French general is a 
very great man, has been an old warrior in Flanders. He says his army consisted of 
some of the chief men in Canada, a great many of which are killed. The chief man 
that headed the army at Ohio against Braddock, is killed here. This general had an 
exact account of all our proceedings, our numbers, and chief officers, and also a list of 
all his own troops and forces. Perhaps this may be of service to us. This is the best 
account I can send ; it is not altogether perfect. 

Your loving husband, John Burk. 

The following is extracted from the daily journal kept by Major 
Burk at this period, and will serve to show a soldier's life during 
tlie French wars. 

Thursday, 31s*, (1755.) I was ordered up the river with about 30 men to see what I 
could discover, but saw nothing. Tarried still at Saratoga. Our men went out to Sara- 
toga fort and dug out of the earth 1114 cannon ball. The men, about 300, went up the 
river to make the road. I tarried in the camp. Friday, Aug. 1st. The army all moved 
to the second falls above Saratoga, 4 miles. We drew thebatteaux up the first falls., 
load and all ; it was fatiguing, but the men worked like lions, some to the neck in 
water. We had about 180 batteaux. This day the men had half a pint of rum given 
more than allowance. Saturday, 2d. We tarried at the fills and got our batteaux by in 
the river. The Dutch came up with 32 wagons, carried all our provisions by, and 
some tents. Our guard that went up the river to make ready, saw 4 or 5 Indians 



238 BERNAftDSTON. 

Sunday^ 3rf. We moved to carrying place, Col. Lydies' house, about 45 miles from 
Albany. It rained very hard this night ; some provisions got wet. Monday, ith. I 
was ordered to attend the court, which adjourned to this day. It was adjourned again 
to Friday next in the afternoon. I was ordered with 5 men to scout round the camps, 
but made no discovery. Tuesday, 5th. I was ordered to take 9 men and go to the 
Lake Sacrament. Lieut. May, Ensign Stratton and Ensign Stevens went to make the 
number. As we marched we saw .3 deer, 1 bear, and an old mare and a wolf, which 
was at the lake. We came a little back from the lake and camped. Wednesday, 6th. 
We returned to our camps, brought in an old mare, picked some huckleberries, brought 
some to Gen. Lyman. Made no discovery ; got back by 3 o'clock. This day the man 
confined for sodomy was whipped 100 stripes and drummed out of the company. 
Thursday, 1th. I tarried in the camps. The men got timber for a store-house and 
bark to cover it, &c. A scout was sent to the drowned land, at the place called by the 
Butch Ziaborter. Friday, 8th. Tarried at the camp ; help about the fort. Capt. Pat- 
terson set out for Wood Creek with 30 men. He was ordered to go to the mouth of 
the creek. Saturday, 9th. I tarried at the camps ; worked at drawing timber, &c. 
The scout thayt went fur the drowned land returned, but did not find it. Sunday, IQth. 
We work at fortmg our company ; set up 15 foot of stockades. Mr. Williams preached 
2 sermons. The scout returned from Wood Creek ; they saw signs of Indians, viz. a 
piece of bread stuck up in the path. Maj. Hoar and Lieut. Nixson set out for Albany. 
Monday, llth. I help get some timber. I tarried at the camps. A scout set out for 
Crown Point, another for the So. Bay, and another for Lake Sacrament. The two 
last returned. They reported that they saw Indians, but upon examination it was 
their own men. Some men went to Saratoga, to kill some Dutch cattle. Tuesday, 
12th. I tarried at the camp, and help get timber. Some went to clear roads. The 
men that went to Saratoga returned, brought some beef, and brought news that the 
rest of the army was coming near by. Wednesday, 13th. I tarried at the camps ; 
went over on the island afternoon to get gate timber. Gen. Lyman had an express 
from Gov. Fitch, and some newspapers, which gave an accotmt of the death of Gen. 
Braddock, and that the army was defeated. 

Thursday, lAth. Gen. Johnson, Col. Titcom, and Col. Williams, with a great num- 
ber of forces, came to the carrying place, with some Indians and 20 cannon, 2 of 
which were thirty-two pounders, and a great many wagons. The general was waited 
upon with a number of men, and on his arrival saluted by the officers and the discharge 
of field-pieces. Connecticut boys and Rhode Island all come. Friday, 15th. A coun- 
cil was held ; it was determined to send for more men to join us at our head-quarters. 
Little or no work done this day. A scout from Crown Point returned ; no news. 
Satitrday, l&h. I tarried at the camps ; did little or nothing. A scout came from 
Fort Massachusetts. I heard from home. Sunday, llth. I was ordered by Gen. 
.Johnson to scout, with 11 men and 7 Indians, to the Lake Sacrament. Capt. Passore, 
bound for the So. Bay^ with 30 or 40 white men and 6 Indians, marched 4 miles with 
tisy a"nd ttirned off". I marched 10 miles. Connecticut and New York forces arrived 
with women ; a man was drowned. Monday, 18th. We marched to the lake ; made 
no di.scovery of an enemy. Six of the Indians went farther westward. We sat out 
from the lake at one o'clock, and got home before dark. Tuesday, 19th. Tarried in 
the camps; did nothing. A general court-martial was held. Gen. Lyman, Cols. 
Ruggels, Williams, Goodrich, were ordered to be ready to meet at all hours. Wed- 
nesday, 20th. Tarried at the camps. A general court-martial was held in trial of Lieut. 
Noble and others. Capt. Ayres began to dig a trench. A great number was employed 
at digging. Thursday, 21st. Tarried in camp. Saw Nelly and Polly, in great taking 
for the women, — were all ordered away. Five Indians of the Six Nations came from 
Canada. General court-martial sat. About 120 men employed digging in the 
trenches. The Indians brought news from Canada, that 17 ships were at Quebec, 
(iOO regulars ; that 8000 were expected at Crown Point, 300 out. 

Friday, 22d. I tarried at the camp. A council sit ; determined to go by Lake 
Sacrament. I sent a letter to my wife. Trenching j^et, sawing boards. Saturday, 
23d. Four hundred men were ordered to go upon the road ; I went pilot. Cleared 6 
mile\,. The women were sent to Albany. When they went off" there was a great 
huzza. Trenchins and saMing with whip-saw yet. Sunday, 24th. I was not well ; I 
had a bad cold. Kept in the tent all day. Mr. Williams preached 2 sermons. A 
number of men went upon the road. Some Indians came to us ; informed of more 
coming. Lieut. Noble read his acknowledgment before the assembly. Monday, 25th. 
I tarried at home in the camps. A scout sent to Fort Massachusetts, — Serg. Avery, 
wh(> was one ordered to Deerfield. I Avrote to my wife. Trenching and sawing, 
and making & pcvvder-house. All going forward briskly. Tuesday, 2&th. Gen. John- 



BERNARDSTON. 239 

son, Cols. Ruggels, Williams, Goodrich's regiments, and some of Rhode Island and 
York forces, about 1500 men and 200 wagons, marched forward for Lake Sacrament. 
March 6 miles and camped. Wednesday, 21th. We all marched 4 miles and camped. 
We had some clearing and large causeways to make this day. Thursday, 28th. We 
cleared the road 10 miles ; got to the lake. The men worked very hard this day. 
One of the men found a gun and Indian pack. Friday, 29th. AVent to clearing by the 
lake, making a causeway, &c. The wagons returned for more stores. About 20 
Indians came to us. Saturday, "iQth. I was made captain of the guard. Hendrick, 
with about 170 Indians, came to us; they were saluted with a round of guns, and the 
men all drew up to receive them. The clearing went oif briskly. One man killed, 1 
taken, 3 escaped. They were keeping cattle at the great carrying place. Sunday, 
2>lst. A number of wagons and cannon came up, guarded by the Rhode Islanders and 
"i^orkers. Clearing carried on still. At night the Indians had a great dance. Mon- 
day, Sept. \st. Capt. Porter, with some Indians, marched to the So. Bay to intercept 
the enemy that did the mischief. Some canoes were seen by our Indians up the lake. 
I tarried by the camp and cleared for tenting. Alarm at night ; a sentry shot at a 
horse. 

Tuesday, 2d. Capt. Porter and men returned. The Indians marched forward. 
Five Indians that went out 5 days ago, that went to the carrying place at 
the north end of the lake, saw 15 of the enemy. Could not come to speech. 
Our scout returned from Fort Massachusetts. I tarried at the camps. Moved 
our tents. Wednesday, 2d. Gen. Lyman, Col. Titcomb, Col. Gilbert came to us 
at Lake George. Some Indians came and joined us. It is said they came 1100 
miles. I carried the camps. 3 Indians went a-scalping to Crown Point. Thursday, 
4th. I was ordered to go up the lake with Capt. Stoddard and Capt. Ingersoll, and 3 
other white men, to carry 3 Indians, who were going to Lake West, and we sailed 15 
miles. Landed the Indians ; returned by 11 at night. Began to build a fort. Friday, 
5th. I was very bad with a cold ; tarried at the camps. No news this day. Saturday, 
6th. I went to get a cask out of the stcre-house, &c. Heard that 8 or 9 of the sick 
were dead at the other forts. Batteaux, stores, daily coming up. Fort building, scows 
making. Sutiday, 1th. A scout of Indians came in who have been to Crown Point, 
and inform that they saw as they returned the signs of a large army marching south 
in 3 files ; designed, as they suppose, for our fort at great carrying place. A man 
who was thought to have deserted was found dead at the other fort ; killed by the fall 
of a tree, as is supposed. Monday, 8th. Col. Williams was sent out with 1000 men 
in search of the enemy ; determined to march toward the south bay. They marched 
so in the road 3 miles, when they were waylaid by the enemy and fired upon. The 
enemy, having the advantage of the ground, obliged our men to retreat to the camps ; 
killed and wounded a great number by the way. The enemy made a very smart 
attack upon the camps, but we stood ground and drove them back. Took the general 
and aid-de-camp, and about 25 prisoners. New Hampshire and York men at the 
other fort, at the carrying place, heard the great guns, came up and met the enemy 
stripping our dead; drove them from the ground and took 2 prisoners. They fought 
them 3 hours, and we fought them from between 10 and 11 till between 6 and 7 after- 
noon. No such battle before in North America. Tuesday, 9th. About 300 we 
sent out to bury the dead. I went with them. The men forward took a start, 
ran back; were stopped by the officers. Found it too late to do the business. 
Returned to the camps, brought one wounded man of ours, a great deal of plunder, &c. 
Wed7iesday, IQth. We went out again, buried 136 dead of ours, and some French. 
Brought in a great deal of plunder and French provisions, and one of our wounded, 
a scout from the other fort, and from Hoosuck, Capt. WjTnan. I sent a letter to my 
wife. All a-fortifying at the camps. Col. Willard, Capt. Symers, came up with a 
number of wagons with provisions, &,c. Thursday, llth. I wrote a large letter to my 
wife; sent it by Capt. Wyman. The wagoners went back, the Indians went off home. 
A great number of men went plundering ; found a great deal. Buried 4 more of our 
men. ' 

The following inscriptions are from monuments in the old bury- 
ing-ground in this place, about one mile from the center. 

In memory of the Hon. Maj'- John Burke, who died Oct^- 27th, 1784, in y* 67th year 
of his age. 

Were I so tall to reach the pole, 
Or grasp the ocean with my span, 
I must be measur'd by my soul, — 
The Mind's the standard of the man. 



240 CHARLEMONT. 

To the memorv of Doctor Polycarpus Cashman, who died 15th December, A. D. 
1797, jEtate 47. " 

Vain censorious beings little know, 
What they must soon experience below. 
Your lives are short, eternity is long, 
O think of death, prepare, & then begone. 
Thus art and nalures powers &; charms 
And drugs iNc receipts and forms 
Yield all last to greedy worms 
A despicable prey. 
Mors absque morbo vorax mortnlium rapuit medicum.* 



B U C K L A N D . 



This town was incorporated in 1779. A part of its territory 
was within the hmits of Charlemont. The first minister of this 
place was Rev. Josiah Spaulding, from Plainfield, Con. ; he was 
installed pa.stor in 17<)1. His snccessor, the Rev. Benjamin F. 
Clarke, was settled here 18:?4. The first settlement within the 
limits of the town Avas pro])ahly made on Deerfield river, about 
two and a half miles from the Congregational church in the center 
of the town. A Mr. White is believed to have been the first per- 
son who settled there. About the same time a settlement was 
made in the south part of the town by Capt. Nahum Ward. His 
son, .Tonathan Ward, Avas the first white child born in the town. 
Capt. Ward settled about one and a half miles westward of the 
center. Persons of the Baptist denomination settled about two 
miles south-ea.sterly from the center of the town at a very early 
period. 

The surface of this town is hilly and broken. Clesson's river, a 
mill-stream, passes centrally through the town. It was formerly 
noted for trout, and on its banks were fine hunting-grounds. A 
park for deer was built about tv\''o miles northerly from the center of 
tlie town, by Othniel Taylor. Agriculture is the principal business 
of the inhabitants. There are 3 houses of worship— 1 Congrega- 
tionalist, 1 Baptist, and 1 Methodist. Distance, 12 miles from 
Greenfield, 23 to Northampton, and 1U5 from Boston. Population, 
1,051. 

The following is the inscription on the monument of ]Mr. Spaul- 
ding, the first minister : 

In memory of Rev. Josiah Spaulding, died May 8th, 1823, JE. 72. Rev. J. S. was 
born at Plainfield, Conn.. Jan. 10, 1751, graduated at Yale College 1778, hcenced to 
preach 1780, ordained 1782. Of the 41 yrs. of his ministry, 5 were spent at Uxbridge, 
()i at Worthington, 28.^ at Buckland. Merciful men are taken away, none considering 
that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come. 



CHARLEMONT. 

This town was incorporated in 1765. During the French and 
Indian wars, this being one of tlie frontier towns, it was open to 

* Rapacious Death, without disease, has snatched away the healer of mortals. 



CHARLEBIONT 



241 



their ravages. In the hmits of this town were three garrisons, 
Taylor's. Rice's, and Hawk's. These were of a cordon of fortifica- 
tions projected by Col. Williams in the year 1754. These works were 
either 'mounts, a diminutive kind of block-house, or stockaded dwel- 
ling-houses, bearing the names of the resident families, defensible 
only against musketry. In June, 1755, as a party of people were 
at work in a meadow in the npper part of Charlemont, near Rice's 
fort, they were attacked by a party of Indians ; Captain Rice and 
Phiiieas Rice were killed, and Titus King, and Asa Rice, a lad, 
were captured, conveyed to Crown Point, an.d from thence to 
Canada. King was some time afterward carried to France, then to 
England, and from thence he returned to IVorthampton. liis native 
place. The Congregational church in this town was organized in 
June, 1788 ; the Rev. Isaac Babbit, the first Congregational minis- 
ter, was settled here in 1796; he resigned in 1798. He was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Joseph Field, who resigned in 1823. The next 
minister. Rev. Wales Tileston, was settled in 1825 ; he resigned 
in 1837. 




Eastern view in the central fiart of Charltniont. 



The above is an eastern view in the central part of Charlemont, 
showing the Baptist and Methodist churches ; 17 miles from Green- 
field, 16 from Adams, o^i from Troy, N. Y., and about 104 from 
Boston. The Baptist church is the nearest building in the view, 
having six windows on the southern side; the Methodist church, a 
small building, is seen farther northward ; it has a tower, and 
stands on an elevation of ground. There is a little village north- 
ward of these churches, which is but partially seen in t!ie engrav- 
hig. The highest mountainous elevation, seen in the distance, is 
called Mount Peak, and is upwards of 1000 feet in height. Deer- 
lield river, which flows at the foot of this elevation, winds through 
the whole length of the town. High hills and mountainous eleva- 
tions in many places rise immediately from its banks, affording 
many views of picturesque and delightful scenery. Agrictdture is 



242 C O L E R A I N E 



the principal business of the inhabitants. In 1837, there were 
3,355 merino sheep, and 1,398 of other kinds; the vahie of wool 
produced, $7,460. Population of the town, 994. In 1838, a large 
proportion of an unincorporated tract of mountainous and broken 
land, called Zoar, Avitli few inhabitants, on the western border of 
the town, was, by an act of the legislature, added to this town. 



C L E R A I X E , 



CoLERAiNE^ was incorporated in 1761. It was previously called 
Boston TouuisJdp. It was partly settled by emigrants from Ireland, 
who were Presbyterians in religious sentiment. The church in 
this place was Presbyterian till 1819, when it became Congre- 
gational. The first minister, Rev. Alexander McDowel, it is be- 
lieved, was from Ireland. Rev. Daniel McClallen was born in 
Pennsylvania, but educated in Ireland. A^ery little is known of 
the early state of the religious affairs of the people, as either no 
church records were kept, or if kept have been lost. Mr. McDow- 
el, the first minister, was settled in 1753 ; Mr. McClallen in 1769. 
The third minister. Rev. Samuel Taggart, was settled in 1777, and 
died in 1825 ; he retained his connection with his church and so- 
ciety till the close of life. He was a member of the house of 
representatives of the United States, from 1804, for 14 years. He is 
said to have remarked to a christian friend, that he had read the 
Bible through at Washington every year during the time he had 
served as a member of congress. Rev. Arctas Loomis succeeded 
Mr. Taggart in 1829. 

Coleraine has a larger population than any other town in Frank- 
lin county. It is finely watered by two branches of North river, a 
tributary stream of Deerfield river, affording water-power for a 
number of factories in various parts of the town, which are now in 
successful operation. After the union of the two branches of the 
North river in this town, in its course towards Deerfield river, it 
passes through a very narrow defile, with lofty elevations on each 
side, particularly on the north bank ; the road, in some places, 
passes at a great elevation from the bed of the river, and to a lover 
of natural scenery in its varied forms this place possesses uncom- 
mon attractions. The engraving is a western view of part of the 
village in the central part of the town. The Methodist church ap- 
pears on the riglit, and the Congregational on the left. This place 
is surrounded by lofty elevations on almost every side. It is 9 
miles from Greenfield, 30 from Adams, 30 from Northampton, 70 
from Albany, N. Y., and 100 from Boston. Population, 1,998. In 
1837 there were 3 cotton mills, 5,000 cotton spindles ; 125,000 lbs. 

* It is said that this Xovm. wns named from Lord Culeraine, in Ireland. His lordship 
was so well pleased with the honor done him that he sent the inhabitants a fine bell ; 
but, through the unfaithfulness of the agent to whom it was intrusted, it never reached 
them. It is believed to be still in existence, and used in one of the churches in Boston 



(1 O I, !■ R A INK 



243 




Western vietv of Coleraiiie., (^central part.) 



of cotton were consumed ; 930,000 yards of cotton goods manufac- 
tured, valued at $59,500; 40 males and 120 females were em- 
ployed. There were 4,340 merino and 1,414 other kinds of sheep 
in the town: value of wool produced, $9,133 11 ; capital invested, 
$14,385. There were two air and cupola furnaces ; 150 tons of iron 
castings were made, valued at $17,500. Various other articles 
were also manufactured in the town* 

One of the first settlers in this town was Deacon Thomas McGee, 
a Protestant, from Ireland ; he located himself about tw<3 miles 
sovUh from the center of the town. James Steward, Avho officiated 
as town-clerk for a number of years, lived a little east fr-om Mr. 
McGee. Hugh McClallen located himself in the south-western 
part of the town ; he filled various public offices, and was the first 
acting magistrate. John Cochren, from Pelham. Hampshire coun- 
ty, located himself in the center. He built the whole or part of 
the Barber House, so called, near the Congregational church : 
this house is now standing. John Clark, of Irish descent, had a 
Iwuse about half a niile north of the meeting-house, on land which 
was given to his father by the proprietors of Coleraine. Mr. Clark's 
father was killed in the last French war. Hugh Morrison located 
himself about one and a half miles north of the center. He was 
a captain, and commander of the north or Morrison's fort. Dea- 
con George Clark settled about a mile easterly from the center. 
Capt. John Wood, from South Hadley, kept the first tavern, a bnild- 
ing now standing. The first meeting-house built by the proprie- 
tors stood about 80 rods north of Capt. Wood's tavern ; it was two 
stories in height, and was never completed on account of its loca-. 
tion. Rev. Mr. McDole, or Dowel, the first minister, lived about 80 
rods north, in a building used as a fort. Besides the two forts men- 
tioned, there were two others: one, called the .east fort, was situated 
about two miles eastward of the meeting-house- the south fort was 

33 



244 CONWAY. 

near Deacon McGee's. Hezekiah Smith, from Woodstock, in Con- 
necticut, settled about two miles south-west down the North river. 
Thomas Fox and Deacon Moses Johnson were early settlers. 
Deacon Elliot Harroun and Joseph Thompson settled near Hugh 
McClallen, in the north-western part of the town. 

In May, 1746, Matthew Clark, with his wife and daughter, and 
two soldiers, were fired upon by the Indians. Clark was killed, 
and his wife and daughter wounded. One of the soldiers returned 
the fire and killed one of the enemy, which gave them a check, 
and the wounded were brought into the fort and saved. In July, 
David Morrison was captured by the Indians. In 1756, John 
Morrison and John Henry were wounded near Morrison's fort, but 
getting on to a horse, made their escape. The enemy burned a 
house and killed some cattle on North river. In 1759, John 
McCown and his wife were captured, and their son was killed. 



CONWAY. 



This town was incorporated in 1767. The first minister of the 
place was Rev. John Emerson, who settled here in 1769. At this 
time the town contained but 400 or 500 inhabitants. Mr. Emerson 
afterwards shrewdly remarked, that when he came " it was lite- 
rally John preaching in the wilderness." He lived to see a popula- 
tion of about 2000 souls. Mr. Emerson was eminently a prayer- 
ful and devoted minister of the gospel. " For several of his last 
years he had an impediment in his speech ; it was, however, scarce- 
ly perceptible in his devotional exercises, showing it was more 
natural for him to pray than to converse." Rev. Edward Hitch- 
cock was settled as colleague with Mr. Emerson in 1S21. Mr. 
Emerson died in 1826, aged 80. Mr. Hitchcock was succeeded by 
Rev. Daniel Crosby, in 1827. 

The following is a southern view of the central part of Conway, 
as it appears from the road passing over the elevated ground south 
from the village. The village, which consists of about thirty 
dwelling-houses and other buildings, lies principally in a narrow 
valley between two elevated hills, the one westward called Beal's 
Hill, the one eastward Billings' Hill. South river, a mill-stream, 
passing into Deerfield river, divides the village into two parts. 
There are two churches in the village, one a Congregational, the 
other a Baptist church. The Congregational church is seen in the 
engraving in the southern part of the village. The Baptist church 
is without a spire, and stands in the northern part, on elevated 
ground. Distance, 7 miles S. W. from Greenfield, and 100 from 
Boston. Population, 1,445. 

In 1837, there was one cotton mill, 924 spindles ; cotton con- 
sumed, 10,045 lbs. ; cotton goods manufactured, 151,140 yards, 
valued at $16,625 ; males employed, 8 ; females, 20 ; capital in- 
vested, $10,000. One woollen mill, which manufactured 3,500 
yards of cloth, which employed 18 hands. There were in the town 



DEERFIELD. 



245 




Southern view of Conway. 

2,415 merino sheep; other kinds of sheep, 2,415 ; merino wool pro- 
duced, 7,245 lbs. ; other kinds of wool, 7,245 ; average weight of 
fleece, 3 lbs. ; value of wool, $5,071 ; capital invested, $7,245. 

The following votes, passed during the "Revohitionary times," 
are copied from the records of this town. They will serve to show 
the process used against those who were disaffected towards the 
American cause, and who dared, like freemen, to let their senti- 
ments be known. The orthography is retained. 

At a legal meeting, held June 25, 1777, Voted to try the minds of the town with re- 
gard to the enemical persons that the selectmen have entered in a list and laid before 
the town as such seperately. 

Voted, the following persons are dangerously enemical to the American States, viz. 
Joseph Catlin, Elias Dickinson, Joseph Brunson, Elijah AVells, Elijah Billings, James 
Dickinson, Wm. Billings, John Hamilton, Jonathan Oaks, Capt. Consider Arras. 
Eben'r Bedfield, and David Field. Voted, that Capt. Alexander Oliver be the person 
to collect the evidence, and lay it before the court, against the above enemical per- 
sons. 

At a legal meeting, held August 27th, 1777, Voted, that we proceed in some mea- 
sures to secure the enemical persons called Tories among us. Then the question was 
put, whether we would draw a line between the Continent and Great Britain ; voted in 
the affirmative. Voted that all those persons that stand on the side of the Contanant 
take up arms and go hand in hand with us in carrying on the war against our unnatu- 
ral enemies ; such we receive as friends, and all others treet as enemies. Voted, that 
the broad ally be a line, and the south end of the meeting-house be the Continant side, 
and the north end the British side ; then moved for trial, and found 6 persons to stand 
on the British side, viz. Elijah Billings, Jonathan Oaks, Wm. Billings, Joseph Catlin, 
Joel Dickinson, and Elias Dickinson. Voted to set a gard over those enemical persons. 
Voted the toww clerk emmediately desire Judge Mather to issue out his warrants 
against those enimical persons returned to him in a list heretofore. 



DEERFIELD. 

Deerfield is the oldest town in Franklin county. In 1669, a 
tract of 8,000 acres of land was granted by the general court 
at Pocitmtuck to a company at Dedham, embracing most of 



246 



DEERFIELD". 



the interval lying on Pocumtuck or Deerfield river, and the plain 
southerly as far as Hatfield bounds. The proprietors first met at 
Dedhafti in 1670 ; at which time it was agreed to lay out the lots 
at Pocumtuck. By subsequent grants it comprehended within its 
limits the present towns of Deerfield, Conway, Shelburne, Green- 
field, and Gill. Whether the whole was purchased from the 
natives does not appear. A deed, however, of a part of the early 
grant, is still extant ; it was made to .Tohn Pynchon, Esq., of 
Springfield, "for the use and behoof of major Eleazer Lusher, 




Southern view of Deerfield, (central part.) 

ensign Daniel Fisher, and other English at Dedham, their asso- 
ciates and successors," by C/icmk, alias Chaqi/e, the sachem of 
Pocumtuck, and his brother Wapahoale, and is dated Feb. 24, 
1665, prior to the grant by government. The deed is witnessed 
by Wequonock, who " helped the Sachem in making the bar- 
gain ;" and reserves to the Indians "the right of fishing in the 
rivers and waters ; hunting deer, or other wild animals ; the gath- 
ering of walnuts, chesnuts, and other nuts, and things on the com- 
mons." The first settlement at Deerfield commenced in 1670, 
and within fo\ir years a considerable number of buildings were 
erected. In 1686. the Rev. John Williams was settled as minister 
of the place, on a salary of £60, to be paid in wheat at three shil- 
lings and three-pence the bushel, pease at two shillings and six- 
pence, Indian corn at two shillings, aitd salted pork at two-pence 
halfpenny the pound. 

Deerfield is finely situated on the west bank of Connecticut 
river. Deerfield river, a large and beautiful stream, meanders 
through the center of the town, and on its banks are large tracts 
of interval land, the quality of which is equal to any in the state. 
The principal street runs north and south on a beautiful elevation 
above the meadows, which spreads out from the foot of East or 
Deerfield mountain. 



rtEERFIELD. 



247 



The engraving on the opposite page, is a view (looking to the 
iiorthward) in the central part of the village, showing the Unita- 
rian Congregational church, and some other public buildings. 
The ancient house, which escaped destruction at the tinie the 
Indians biu-nt the town in 171)4, is seen in the distance, standing 
a few feet westward of thfe church. Deerfield is principally an 
agricultural town. In 1837, there was one manufactory of cutlery, 
which employed seventy hands; the value of cutlery manufac- 
tured was .f 100,000. The value of palm-leaf hats manufactured 
was $7,800; the value of corn brooms made was ,f! 10,990; the 
value of pocket-books, &c., $11,000. Population, 1,952. Distance, 
3 miles south from Greenfield, 18 miles north of Northampton, GO 
to Hartford, Conn., and 95 from Boston. 




Monument and Sugar-loaf Mountain, Deerfield. 

The above is a north-western view of the monument at Bloody 
Brook, erected in memory of Capt. Lathrop and his men, who fell 
on this spot, in an ambuscade of the Indians. This monument 
stands perhaps 30 or 40 rods southerly from the Congregational 
church. South-easterly from the monument is seen Sugar-loaf 
Mountain, a conical peak of red sand-stone, about 650 feet in 
height. In 1835, the 160th anniversary of the destruction of Capt. 
Lathrop and his men was commemorated in this place. The Hon. 
Edward Everett, now governor of Massachusetts, was appointed 
orator for the occasion, and General Epaphas Hoyt, of Deerfield, 
was appointed to make the address at the laying of the corner 
stone for the monument. About six thousand persons were present 
on this occasion. Governor Everett delivered his address under a 
walnut tree, a few rods eastward of the monument, the top of 
which is seen rising between the two mountainous elevations in 
the back ground. About forty years after Capt. Lathrop and his 
men were killed, a rude monument was erected to their memory, 
but the different occupants of the soil removed it so many times, 
that it was a matter of uncertainty where he or his men were 



248 DEER FIELD. 

buried. In 1835, the committee of investigation, guided by the 
tradition of some aged people, found the spot where he and about 
thirty of his men were interred ; the grave was just in front of the 
door-yard of Stephen Whitney, Esq., and about twenty feet north- 
west of his front door. Their bones were in a state of tolerable 
preservation, but fell to pieces on exposure to the air. " A grave, 
probably containing tlie bones of the ninety-six Indians who were 
.slain ou that day, was hkewise found by accident about the same 
time, nearly one hundred rods west of the road leading from 
Bloody Brook to Conway, by Mr. Artemas Williams, and a httle 
more than half a mile south-west of the grave of Lathrop." 

The monument is six feet square and about twenty feo.t in 
height; it is constructed of marble, by Mr. Woods, of Sunderland. 
On its completion an address was delivered at its foot by Mr. 
Luther B. Lincoln, of Deerfield. The following is the inscription on 
the monument : — 

On this ground Capt. Thomas Lothrop and eighty-four men under his command, 
including eighteen teamsters from Deerfield, conveying stores from that town to Had- 
ley, were ambuscaded hy about 700 Indians, and the Captain and seventy-six men 
slain, Sept. 18th, 1675, (old style.) The soldiers who fell were described by a co- 
temporary Historian, as " a choice company of young men, the very flower of the 
County of Essex, none of whom were ashamed to speak with the enemy in the gate." 

" And Snnguimtto tells you where the dead 
Made the earth wet, and turn'd the unwilling waters red." 

This monument erected August, 1838. 

The bearing and distance of the grave of the slain (south 21 
rods) is inscribed on the monument, and a stone slab placed on 
the spot. In order to defend the frontier settlements from the 
Indians in Philip's war, a considerable number of soldiers were 
posted at Hadley, and it became necessary to procure provisions 
xind forage for their subsistence. The Indians having burnt the 
principal part of Deerfield, it was abandoned by the inhabitants ; 
their grain, consisting of about 3,000 bushels of wheat, remained 
stacked in the fields, having escaped the conflagration. Deter- 
mining to avail himself of this supply, the commanding ofticer at 
Hadley detached Capt. Lathrop and his company, with a number 
:<)f teams and drivers, to thrash it and transport it to head-quarters. 
Having thrashed the grain and loaded his teams, Capt. Lathrop, on 
the ISth of September, commenced his march for Hadley. As no 
Indians had been seen in the vicinity, he did not probably appre- 
tiend any danger. The following accoimt of the fatal attack of 
the savages at Bloody Brook is taken from Hoyt's Indian Wars, 
published at (Greenfield in 1824. 

" For the distance of about three miles, after leaving Deerfield 
meadow, Lathrop's march lay through a very level country, closely 
wooded, Avhere he was every moment exposed to an attack on 
either fiank ; at the termination of this distance, near the south 
point of Sugar-loaf Hill., the road approximated Connecticut river, 
and the left was in some measure protected. At the village now 
called Muddy Brook, in the southerly part of Deerfield, the road 
.crossed a small stream, bordered by a narrow morass, from whieh 



DEERFIELD. 249 

the village has its name ; though more appropriately it should be 
denominated Bloody Brook, by which it was sometimes known. 
Before arriving at the point of intersection with the brook, the 
road for about half a mile ran parallel with the morass, then, cross- 
ing, it continued directly to the south point of Sugar-loaf Hill, tra- 
versing what is now the home lots, on the east side of the vil- 
lage. As the morass was thickly covered with brush, the place of 
crossing afforded a favorable point of surprise. On discovering 
Lathrop's march, a body of upwards of seven hundred Indians 
planted themselves in ambuscade at this point, and lay eagerly 
waiting to pounce upon him while passing the morass. Without 
scouring the woods in his front and flanks, or suspecting the snare 
laid for him, Lathrop arrived at the fatal spot ; crossed the morass 
with the principal part of his force, and probably halted, to allow 
time for his teams to drag through their loads. The critical 
moment had arrived — the Indians instantly poured a heavy and 
destructive fire upon the column, and rushed furiously to close 
attack. Confusion and dismay succeeded. The troops broke and 
scattered, fiercely pursued by the Indians, whose great superiority 
enabled them to attack at all points. Hopeless was the situation 
of the scattered troops, and they resolved to sell their lives in a 
vigorous struggle. Covering themselves with trees, the bloody con- 
flict now became a severe trial of skill in sharp shooting, in which 
life was the stake. Difficult would it be to describe the havoc, 
barbarity, and misery that ensued ; ' fury raged, and shuddering 
pity quit the sanguine field,' while desperation stood pitted, at 
' fearful odds,' to unrelenting ferocity. The dead, the dying, the 
wounded, strewed the ground in all directions ; and Lathrop's 
devoted force was soon reduced to a small number, and resistance 
became faint. At length the unequal struggle terminated in the 
annihilation of nearly the whole of the English ; only seven or 
eight escaped from the bloody scene, to relate the dismal tale ; and 
the wounded were indiscriminately butchered. Capt. Lathrop 
fell in the early part of the action. The whole loss, including 
teamsters, amounted to ninety." 

Capt. Mosely, who was at Deerfield with his company, between 
four and five miles distant, hearing the musketry, hurried on to 
the relief of Lathrop, but it was too late ; he found the Indians 
had done their bloody work, and were stripping the dead. Rush- 
ing on in close order, he broke through the enemy, and, charging 
back and forth, cut down all within the range of his shot. After 
several hours of gallant fighting, the savages were compelled to 
seek for safety in the surrounding swamps and forests. Lieuten- 
ants Savage and Pickering greatly distinguished themselves by 
their skill and bravery. Just at the close of the action. Major 
Treat, of Connecticut, who on the morning of this day had 
marched towards Northfield, arrived on the ground with one 
hundred men, consisting of English, Pequot and Mohegan Indians, 
and shared in the final pursuit of the enemy. Captain Mosely lost 
but two men in the various attacks, and seven or eight only were 



25t* DEERFIELD. 

wounded. The loss of the Indians in the various attacks of tne 
day was estimated at ninety-six, the greatest proportion of which 
fell in the engagement with Mosely. On the approach of night, 
Treat and Mosely proceeded to Deerfield, where they encamped 
for the night, and the next morning returned to the field of slaugh- 
ter to hury the dead. The day after this disaster, the Indians 
appeared at Deerfield, on the west side of the river in that town, 
and, displaying the garments they had stripped from Lathrop's 
slain, made demonstrations of an attack on the fortified house, 
which then contained a garrison of only twenty-seven men. The 
commander held out delusive appearances of a strong force, — 
caused his trumpet signals to be given, as if to call in additional 
troops, which so intimidated tlie Indians that they withdrew with- 
out making an attack. This post, however, was afterwards 
abandoned by tlie garrison, and the place Avas soon after des- 
troyed by the enemy. 

During the French and Indian wars, Deerfield was often exposed 
to the incursions of the French and their savage allies. In the 
evening of the 29th of February, 1704, Major Hertel de Rouville, 
with 200 French and 142 Indians, all;er a tedious march of 
between 2 and 300 miles through deep snow, arrived at an ele- 
vated pine forest, about two miles north of the village, (now called 
Petty's plain,) bordering Deerfield meadow, where they lay con- 
cealed till after midnight. Finding all quiet, and the snow being 
covered with a crust sufficient to support the men, Rouville left 
his snow-shoes and packs at the foot of the elevation, and, crossing 
Deerfield river, began his march through an open meadow before 
daylight with the utmost caution, which, however, was unneces- 
sary, as the guard had retired to rest a little before daylight. 
Arriving at the north-west quarter of the fort, where the snow 
had drifted in many places nearly to the top of the palisades, 
the enemy entered the place, and found all in a profound 
sleep. Parties detached in different directions broke into the 
houses and dragged the astonished people from their beds, and 
wherever resistance was made they were generally killed. A 
party forced the door of the house of the Rev. Mr. Williams, who, 
awakened by the noise, seized a pistol from his bed tester and 
snapped it at one of the Indians who Avere entering his room. He 
was seized, bound, and kept standing in his shirt for near an hour. 
His house in the mean time was plundered, and two of his chil- 
dren, with a black female servant, were murdered before the door. 
They then permitted him and Mrs. Williams, with five other chil- 
dren, to put on their clothes. The house of Capt. .Tohn Sheldon 
was attacked, but as the door at which the Indians attempted 
to enter was firmly bolted, they found it difficult to penetrate. 
They then perforated it with their tomahawks, and, thrusting 
through a musket, fired and killed the captain's wife, as she was 
rising from a bed in an adjoining room. The captain's son and 
wife, awakened by the assault, leaped from a chamber window, at 
the east end of the house, by \viiich the latter strained her ankle, 



DEERFIELD. 



251 



and A\ras seized by the Indians, but the husbatid escaped to the 
woods and reached Hatfield. After gaining possession of the 
house, which was one of the largest in the place, the enemy 
reserved it as a depot for the prisoners as they were collected from 
other parts of the village. The whole number made prisoners was 
112, and the number of killed Avas forty-seven. Having collected 
the prisoners, plimdered and set fire to the buildings, Rouville left 
the place when the sun was about an hour high. Every building 
tvithin the fort was reduced to ashes except the meeting-house 
and that of Captain Sheldon, which was the last fired, and saved 
by the English, Avho assembled immediately after the enemy left 
the place. This house is still standing near the center of the vil- 
lage, of which the annexed engraving is a representation. 




South-east view of Ancient House in Deerjield. 



The ground plan of the building is 42 by 21 feet. The timber 
used in the construction of this house is of a large size and firm 
texture, most of which remains sound even to the sills, and the 
primitive clapboards at the gables are in a good state of preserva- 
tion ; the walls are lined with brick. The door, showing the per- 
foration made by the tomahawks, still remains. Other parts of the 
building have been repaired, and the general appearance of the 
house does not exhibit so antique an appearance as its age would 
indicate. The night following the attack, the eiiemy encamped in 
the meadow, in what is now Greenfield, about four miles from 
Deerfield village, where, by clearing away the snow and construct- 
ing slight cabins of brush, the prisoners were as comfortably lodged 
as circumstances would admit. On the second day of their jour- 
ney Mrs. Williams, who had lain in but a few weeks previous, be- 
came exhausted through fatigue, and, proving burdensome, her 
Indian master sunk his tomahawk into her head and left her dead 
at the foot of a hill near Green river. The march of the captives 
on Connecticut river continued for several days without any inci- 

34 



252 DEERFIELD. 

dent of note, excepting now and then murdering an exhausted 
captive and taking off the scalp. At the mouth of White river, 
Rouville divided his force into several parties ; that which Mr. 
Williams accompanied proceeded down Onion river to Lake Cham- 
plain, and from thence into Cajiada. After his arrival there he 
was generally treated with civility, and often with humanity. In 
1706 a flag-ship was sent to Quebec, and Mr. Williams and fifty- 
seven other captives were redeemed and brought to Boston. "^ All 
the surviving children of Mr. Williams returned, with the exception 
of his daughter Eunice, who was left behind, being about ten 
years old. She adopted the Indian manners, to one of whom she 
was married, and adopted the Catholic faith. She repeatedly 
visited her relatives in New England ; every inducement was offered 
to make her remain among her connexions, but she uniformly 
persisted in wearing her blanket and counting her beads. She left 
a number of descendants, one of whom, a grandson, was educated 
at Longm.eadow, and afterward became a missionary to the Oneida 
Indians. Twenty-eight of the captives remained in Canada, and, 
mixing with the French and Indians, adopted their manners and 
customs, and were thus lost to their friends. The journal which 
Rouville kept while on his expedition against Deerfield is said to be 
still in existence, having been preserved in one of the Canadian 
convents ; also a small church bell, which the Indians took from 
Deerfield, when it was destroyed. It was conveyed on a sledge 
as far as Lake Champlain and buried, and was afterwards taken 
up and conveyed to Canada, and is now hanging in an Indian 
church in St. Regis. 

[From the Boston Post Boy, Sept. Isi, 1746.] 

Friday sev'night some of our soldiers going from Deerfield to Colerain, were fired 
upon by a party of the enemy Indians, and one Mr. Bliss, a Connecticut soldier, wa3 
kill'd, scalp'd and his body left inhumanly cut and mangled by them. 

And last Monday seven men and a young Avoman being in a field at Deerfield, mak- 
ing of hay, were surpris'd by about 40 of the enemy Indians, and five of the men were 
killed on the spot ; the young woman they struck three times, with their hatchets, and 
wounded her terribly on both sides of her head. The people of this town, being alarm- 
ed, went out after the enemy ; when they hastened off, leaving the wounded young 
woman, and the bodies of the men they had slain on the ground. The other two men 
escaped, and the young woman was brought into Deerfield, but is not like to live. 

The names of those kill'd were Samuel Allen, two of the widow Amsdel's sons, Elea- 

zer Hawkes, Jun., all of Deerfield, and one Gillet, a soldier from Connecticut ; the 

young woman wounded aforesaid was daughter to the atbresaid Allen. One of the 
Indians was kill'd upon their assault ; and some of them had thrown his body into a 
pond, which was soon after found and his scalp taken off and bro't in by our men. It 
is supposed another of the enemy is mortally wounded, as a Tract was discovered 
where one of them had been carried off who had bled a great quantity. 

The following are inscriptions copied from monuments in the old 
burying-ground in this place : 

* Mr. "Williams after his return published a particular account of his sufferings and 
those of his family and townsmen, entitled the Redeemed Captive, i^r. ; this work has 
passed through a number of editions. A recent work, by Stephen W. Williams, Esq., 
entitled " A Biographical Memoir of the Rev. John Williams," has been recently pub- 
lished in Greenfield. It contains many particulars respecting Mr. Williams and his 
family which never before have been published. 



ERVING. 253 

Here lies buried the body of Lievt. Mehuman Hinsdell, died May y« 9, 1736, in the 
63d year of his age, who was the first male child born in this place, and was twice cap- 
tivated by the Indian Salvages. — Math. 5th. 7th. Blessed are the merciful, for they 
shall obtain mercy. 



Here lyeth the body of Mrs. Eunice Williams, the vertuous &; desirable consort of the 
Rev"" Mr. John Williams, & daughter to y= Rev^i- Mr. Eleazer & Mrs. Esther Mather 
of Northampton. She was born Augt. 2, 1664, and fell by rage of y" barbarous Enemy 
March 1, 1703-4. — Prov. 31. 28. Her children rise up and call her Blessed. 



Here lyes y« body of the Reu'^- Mr. John Williams, the beloved & faithful pastor of 
this place, who dyed on June y' 12i'>. 1729, in the eS'"" year of his age. Reu. 14. 13. 
Write blessed are the dead which die in the Lord. 



ERVING 



The territory comprising this town was an unincorporated tract, 
called Ervi?ig^s Grant, lying on the north bank of Miller's river, 
bounded north by Northfield and Warwick. It was incorporated 
as a town in 1838. A Congregational church was organized here 
five or six years since, but there never has been any minister set- 
tled in the place. At this time the inhabitants meet occasionally 
in a school-house for public worship. In the Statistical Tables 
published by the state, it is stated that in Erving's Grant there 
was 1 woollen mill, which manufactured 25,600 yards of satinet, 
valued at $16,640 ; 12 hands, 6 male and 6 female, were employ- 
ed ; capital invested, $7,000. Two thousand and fifty pairs of 
boots and 744 pairs of shoes were manufactured, valued at $4,345. 
Population in 1837 was 292. There is a post-oflice in the town. 
Distance, 10 miles east from Greenfield, and 85 miles from 
Boston. 



GILL. 

This town was formerly a part of Deerfield ; it was incorporat- 
ed in 1793. It received its name in honor of Lieutenant Governor 
Moses Gill. The church records have been lost, but it is supposed 
that the Congregational church was organized in 1793. The first 
minister was Rev. John .lackson, who was settled in 1798 ; his 
successor, Rev. Jabez Munsell, was settled in 1802 ; the next minis- 
ter. Rev. Josiah W. Canning, was settled in 1806. The township 
is situated on a great bend of Connecticut river, and contains much 
fertile land. It lies on the west side of the Connecticut, and is 
separated from Greenfield by Fall river. There are two churches, 
1 Congregational and 1 Methodist, both situated in the small vil- 
lage in the central part of the town. Population, 809. Distance, 
5 miles E. N. E. of Greenfield, 15 S. of Brattleborough, Vt., and 
86 westerly from Boston. 

Near the point where the boundaries of this town, Montague 



2H 



G i L L 



and Greenfield meet, there is in the Connecticut tne most interests 
ing waterfall in the state. They were formerly called Miller's 
falls, but of late have received the name of Turnefs Falls, in 
commemoration of Capt. Turner, who surprised a body of Indians, 
in 1676, at this place, during Philip's war. A canal, three miles 
in length, in order to pass the falls, has been constructed in the 
town of Montague, on the eastern side of the river. An artificial 
dam has also been constructed at the falls, more than a thousand 
feet long, resting near the center upon two small islands. Over 
this dam the water descends more than thirty feet perpendicularly, 
and for half a mile continues descending rapidly and foaming in 
its course. From an elevation perhaps about fifty rods below the 
cataract, the observer perceives that he has a miniature resem- 
blance of the falls of Niagara before him. The country about 
these is but little cultivated. On the opposite side of the river, the 




Turne/s Fa/Is, vi Connecticut River. 

observer will, however, perceive a few dwellings and the head of 
a canal; but a little beyond appear elevations, which are princi- 
pally covered with evergreens, and terminate the landscape. 

The Indians during Philip's war resorted to the falls for the pur- 
pose of taking fish, as vast quantities of shad, salmon, and other 
fish ascended the river daring the spring season. Several hundred 
Indians took a station on the right bank of the river, on elevated 
ground ; a smaller party occupied the opposite bank ; and another 
was stationed at what is now called Smead's Island, upwards of a 
mile below. As the English forces at Hadley and the adjacent 
towns were not, at this time, numerous, the Indians appeared to 
have considered themselves but little exposed to an attack. Two 
lads, Stebbins and Gilbert, who had been taken prisoners and car- 
ried to the falls, fortunately made their escape, and gave informa- 
tion of the position and carelessness of the Indians. On the receipt 
of this intelligence, it was determined to attack them by surprise. 
About one hundred and sixty mounted men assembled at Hatfield, 



o I L L . 255 

under the command of Capt. Turner of the colony troops. He 
was accompanied by Capt. Holyoke of Springfield, and Ensign 
Lyman of Northampton. Under the direction of two skilful guides, 
the English commenced their march for the falls, about twenty 
miles distant, in the evening of 17th of May. 

" Passing the ruins of Deerfield, and the river at the northerly 
part of the meadow in that town, they were heard by a lodge of 
Indians, seated at what is now called Cheapside, a small distance 
below the place where the English forded. The Indians immedi- 
ately turned out and examined the usual place of crossing, but, 
finding no trail, supposed the noise to proceed from moose wading 
the river, and returned to their lodge. Turner having passed Green 
river and a trackless forest of about four miles, halted on elevated 
ground, a small distance west of Fall river, about half a mile from 
the Indian camp at the falls, where his men dismounted and left 
their horses, tied to saplings, under a small guard. About the 
dawn of day the English crossed Fall river, and, climbing up an 
abrupt hill, went rapidly through an intervening wood, rushed 
upon the camp, and found the Indians in a deep sleep, without 
even a watch. Roused from their slumber by the sudden discharge 
of musketry, they fled towards the river, exclaiming, Mohawks ! 
Mohmoks ! verily believing this furious enemy was upon them. 
Many leaped into their canoes, some in the hurry forgetting their 
paddles, and, attempting to cross, were shot by the English or pre- 
cipitated down the cataract and drowned. Some were killed in 
their cabins, others were cut down under the shelving rocks of the 
river bank, where they had fled for shelter. One hundred Indians 
were left dead on the ground, one hundred and forty passed down 
the falls, but one of whom escaped drowning. Their whole loss, 
as was aclniowledged afterwards, was about three hundred men, 
among whom were some of their principal chiefs. Turner, who at 
this time had lost but one of his men, now returned towards his 
horses. By this time the Indians from the east side of the river, 
having joined those from Smead's Island, advanced on the left and 
rear of the English. Capt. Holyoke, who with part of the force 
formed a rear guard, often drove back the savages with great reso- 
lution. They, however, continued their attacks, being covered by 
a thick morass extending along the left flank of the retiring troops. 
By a captive which they took the English were informed that 
Philip was now approaching with a thousand Indians. This, with 
several attacks at various points, produced a panic among the men, 
and the main body at length fell mto confusion, and separated into 
several parties under different leaders. Two of these parties were 
cut off" by the Indians, and the prisoners of one party, as was after- 
wards ascertained, were burnt to death. Capt. Turner, at the head 
of the van, being enfeebled by a previous sickness, was unable to 
act with his usual vigor, and with m.uch difficulty reached Green 
river. The enemy came up as he was crossing over, and he soon 
fell by a shot. Capt. Holyoke, who then commanded, continued 
the retreat through the meadow bordering Green river, and, cross- 



256 GREENFIELD. 

ing a pine plain and Deerfield river, entered the meadow in that 
town, hard pressed by the Indians, and after sustaining several 
furious attacks arrived at Hatfield, with the loss of thirty-eight 
men. ' The most fatal part of the retreat lay across the present 
town of Greenfield, to the north of the extended swamp, lying 
north of the old meeting-house. Capt. Turner is supposed to have 
fallen in Greenfield meadow, near the mouth of the hrook, on 
which now stands Nasirs mill, where his body was afterwards 
found by a scouting party of the English. The Indians followed 
Holyoke to the village, now called the Bars^ at the south end of 
Deerfield meadow.' "* 



GREENFIELD. 

This town was formerly a part of Deerfield. It was incorpo- 
rated as a town in 1753. Rev. Edward Billings, the first minister 
of the first Congregational church in this town, was a native of 
Sunderland ; he settled here in 1754. He was succeeded by Rev. 
Roger Newton, D. D., in 1761. Rev. Gamaliel S. Olds was settled 
as colleague in 1813; he resigned in 1816, and became professor 
of mathematics and natural philosophy in the University of Ver- 
mont and in Amherst college. His successor was Rev. Sylvester 
Woodbridge, who was succeeded by Rev. Amariah Chandler in 
1832. Rev. Titus Strong, D. D., the present rector of the Episco- 
pal church, was instituted by Rt. Rev. Bishop Griswold, in 1814. 
The first pastor of the second church was Rev. Charles Jenkins, 
who was settled in 1820 ; his successors have been Rev. Wm. C. 
Fowler, Rev. C. S. Henry, Rev. Th. Bellows, and Rev. Saml. Wash- 
burn. The first minister of the Unitarian Congregational church 
was the Rev. Winthrop Bailey, who was installed in 1825, and died 
in 1835. He was succeeded by Rev. John Parkman Jr., in 1837. 

The principal part of Greenfield is composed of an extensive 
plain ; on the eastern part of the township runs a succession of 
eminences, of moderate height, which are a continuation of Deer- 
field mountain. The soil on and near these eminences is, for some 
extent, light and sandy ; that of the plain is moderately good ; and 
that along Green river, near the western border, is excellent. 
Greenfield is the shire town of Franklin county . The village is 
beautifully situated on an elevated plain, rising above the interval 
on Green river, and built on two intersecting streets. The village 
consists of 100 well-built dwelling-houses, 4 churches, 2 Congre- 
gational, one of which is Unitarian, 1 Episcopal, and 1 Methodist, 
a court-house, jail, a bank, the " Cxreenfield Bank," with a capital 
of $150,000, 2 printing-offices, with quite a number of mercantile 
stores and mechanic shops. The "Greenfield High School for 
young Ladies " has a high reputation, and the buildings connected 
with it are large, extensive, and elegant, and add very much to 
the fine appearance of the village. The following statement of dis- 

* Hoyt's Indian Wars, p. 131. 



GREENFIELD. 257 

tances was taken from a guide-board, (or a kind of pilaster,) stand- 
ing near the elegant hotel in the center of the place : 20 miles to 
Northampton ; 3 to Deerfield ; 7 to Bernardston ; 9 to Coleraine ; 
4U to Springfield; 54 to Worcester; 20 to Brattleboro', Vt. ; 118 
to Haverhill ; 66 to Hartford, Con. ; 255 to Montreal, U. C. ; and 
88 miles to Boston. Population of the town, 1,840. 

In 1837, there Avas in the town 1 woollen mill, 4 sets of ma- 
chinery ; 36,000 lbs. of cotton and 150,000 lbs. of wool were con- 
sumed, and 180,000 yards of satinet were manufactured, the value of 
which was $;110,000; males employed, 26; females, 63; capital 
invested, .f 80,000. Merino sheep, 1,000; other kinds of sheep, 
1,153 ; merino wool produced, 2,730 lbs.; other kinds of wool, 3,459 
lbs. 

This town during the Indian and French wars was made the 
theater for some of the horrors of Indian warfare. The fall fight, 
so called, took place near the eastern l>order of this town. (See 
account of Gill.) The most fatal part of the action to the English 
took place within the limits of this town. The following case of 
individual suffering deserves notice : it is extracted from Hoyis 
Indian Wars. 

Mr. Jonathan Wells, of Hatfield, one of the twenty who remained in the rear when 
Turner began his march from the falls, soon after mounting his horse received a shot 
in one of his thighs, which had previously been fractured and badly healed, and 
another shot wounded his horse. With much difficulty he kept his saddle, and, after 
several narrow escapes, joined the main body just at the time it separated into several 
parties, as has been related. Attaching himself to one that was making towards the 
jiwamp on the left, and perceiving the enemy in that direction, he altered his route, 
and joined another party flying in a different direction. Unable to keep up with the 
party, he was soon left alone, and not long after fell in with one Jones, who was also 
wounded. The woods being thick and the day cloudy, they soon got bewildered, and 
Wells lost his companion ; and after wandering in various directions, accidentally 
struck Green river, and proceeding up the stream, arrived at a place, since called the 
country farms, in the northerly part of Greenfield. Passing the river, and attempting 
to ascend an abrupt hill, bordering the interval west, he fell from his liorse exhausted. 
After lying senseless some lime, he revived and found his faithful animal standing by 
him ; making him fast to a tree, he again lay down to rest himself, but finding he 
should not be able to remount, he turned the horse loose, and making use of his gun 
as a crutch hobbled up the river, directly opposite to the course he ought to have taken. 
His progress was slow and painful, and being much annoyed by niusquetoes, towards 
night he struck up a fire, which soon spread in all directions, and with some difficulty 
he avoided the flames. New fears now arose ; the fire, he conjectured, might guide 
the Indians to the spot, and he should be sacrificed to their fury. Under these impres- 
sions he divested himself of his ammunition, that it might not fall mto their hands — 
bound up his thigh with a handkerchief, and staunched the blood, and composing him- 
self as much as possible, soon fell into a sleep. Probably before this he had conjec- 
tured that he was pursuing a wrong course, for in a dream he imagined himself 
bewildered, and was impressed with the idea that he must turn down the stream to find 
his home. The rising of the sun the next morning convinced him that his sleeping 
impressions were correct — that he had travelled from, instead of towards Hatfield, 
and that he was then further from that place than the falls, where the action took 
place. He was now some distance up Green river, where the high lands closed down 
to the stream. Reversing his course, he at length regained the level interval in tne 
upper part of Greenfield, and soon found a foot path which led him to the trail of his 
retreating comrades ; this he pursued to Deerfield river, which, with much difficulty, 
he forded by the aid of his gun ; ascending the bank, he laid himself down to rest, 
and being overcome with fatigue, he fell asleep ; but soon awaking, he discovered an 
Indian making directly towards him, in a canoe. Unable to flee, and finding his 
situation desperate, he presented his gun, then wet and filled with sand and gravel, as 
if in the act of firing j the Indian, leaving his own gun, instantly leaped from his canor 
35 



258 GREENFIELD. 

into the water, escaped to the opposite shore, and disappeared. Wells now concii»deci 
he should be sacrificed by others, who he knew were but a small distance down the 
river; but determining if possible to elude them, he gained an adjacent swamp, and 
secreted himself under a pile of drift-wood. The Indians were soon heard in search 
of him, traversing the swamp in all directions, and passing over the drift-wood ; but lying 
close, he fortunately avoided discovery, and after they had given up the search and 
left the place, he continued his painful march through Deerfield meadows. Hunger 
now began to prey upon him, and looking about he accidentally discovered the skele- 
ton of a horse, from the bones of which he gathered some animal matter, which he 
eagerly devoured, and soon after found a few birds' eggs, and some decayed beans, 
which in some measure allayed the cravings of nature, and added to his strength. 
Passing the ruins of Deerfield at dusk, he arrived the next morning at Lathrop's battle- 
ground, at Bloody Brook, in the south part of Deerfield, where he found himself so 
exhausted that he concluded he must give up further efforts, lie down, and die. But 
after resting a short time and recollecting that he was within about eight miles of 
Hatfield, his resolution returned, and he resumed his march over pine woods, then 
smoking with a recent fire ; here he found himself in great distress from a want of 
water to quench his thirst, and almost despaired of reaching his approximated home. 
But once more rousing himself, he continued his route, and about mid-day on Sunday 
reached Hatfield, to the inexpressible joy of his friends, who had supposed him dead. 
After a long confinement, Mr. Wells' wound was healed, and he lived to an advanced 
age, a worthy member of the town. 

After the sacking of Deerfield, Rouville, the commander of 
the French and Indian.s, after the destrnction of the town, after 
a march of abont fonr miles, encamped in the meadows on the 
bank of the river. The second day's march was slow. At the 
upper part of Grreenfield meadow it was necessary to pass 
Green river, a small stream, then open, in which Mrs. Williams, 
the wife of the Rev. John Williams, plunged under water, bnt, 
recovering herself, she with difficulty reached the shore, and con- 
tinued her route. An abrupt hill was now to be surmounted, and 
Mr. Williams entreated his Indian master for leave to return and 
help forward his distressed wife; he was refused, and she left to 
struggle with difficulties beyond her power. Her cruel and bloody 
master, finding her a burthen, sunk his hatchet in her head, and 
left her dead at the foot of the hill. Her body was soon afterwards 
taken up and interred in the burial-ground in Deerfield. 

On the twelfth of August, 1766, a party of Indians attacked five men at labor at a 
place called the Country farms, in the northerly part of Greenfield. The Indians had 
secreted themselves on an adjacent eminence, and observed the people deposit their 
arms before they commenced their labor, and by a cautious approach placed them- 
selves between them and the men, and rushing furiously on, gave their fire ; but it 
proved harmless. Destitute of the means of defence, the people fled in diflferent direc- 
tions ; Shubal Atlierton leaped into a ravine, among thick brush, where he was dis- 
covered, shot, and scalped ; Benjamin Hastings and John Graves, dashing through 
Green river, outstripped the Indians, and escaped ; but Daniel Graves and Nathaniel 
Brooks were captured. The former being in years, and unable to travel with the 
speed of the Indians, was killed a small distance from the place of capture; Brooks 
was carried off, and never returned; whether he suffered the fate of his fellow-pri- 
soner, is not known. A party of people from Greenfield village hurried on to the spot, 
and followed the trail of the enemy some distance, and were soon joined by Major 
Williams with a party from Deerfield, but the enemy eluded their pursuers. 

The following is copied from a monument in the grave-yard in 
this place : — 

Sacred to the memory of Thomas Chapman, Esq., a native of Barforth, in York- 
shire, Great Britain ; and many years a resident at Cossim-buzar, in the East Indies. 
He departed this transitory life May 25th, A. D. 1819, aged 73 j and was a Gentlemao 



H A W L E Y . 259 

of inviolable integrity, of great urbanity of manners, and a generous example of good 
old English hospitality. He was also an affectionate Father, an indulgent husband, 
a zealous friend of the primitive church, and a sincere follower of Jesus Christ. 
Hence he lived beloved, and died lamented, by a large circle of friends and acquain- 
tance, and the few sorrowing relatives who have erected this marble to perpetuate his 
remembrance. 



HAWLEY 



This town was incorporated in 1792. It has an elevated situa- 
tion on the Green mountain range, and is well watered by several 
branches of Deerfield river. Rev. Jonathan Grout, the first Con- 
gregational minister, was settled here in 1793; he died in 1S35, 
aged 72. His successor was Rev. Tyler Thacher. No regular 
minister has yet been settled over the second parish. The names 
of some of the first settlers were Deacon Joseph Bangs, Adjvtaiit 
Zebedee Wood, Daniel Burt, Samuel and Arthur Hitchcock, 
Timothy Baker, Reuben Cooley, Joseph Easton, Elisha Hunt, Abel 
Parker, Nathan West, Phineas Scott, Thomas King, Joseph Long- 
ley, William Mclntire, and James Percival. Part of the north 
part of the town is named from Bozrah, Con., from which place 
some of the first settlers came. 

Old Mr. Hale, one of the first settlers of this town, located him- 
self about half a mile from the South Hawley post-office. He is 
described as being a very singular sort of a man. He was never 
married, but lived by himself: with his own hands he cleared up 
land and raised a considerable quantity of grain. He used to talk 
much to himself, and was very much harassed by the appearance 
of "spirits," which he said very much troubled him: he, however, 
like Fingal," showed fight " with his tormentors. He has been seen 
armed with a pitchfork, and to all ai"»pearance, as far as he was 
concerned, engaged in mortal combat with his enemies. He 
would violently thrust the fork into the air in various directions 
about him, furnishing a kind of representation of Fingal's cele- 
brated contest with the spirit of Loda, thus described in Carric- 
Thura, a poem of Ossian : 

" The flame was dim and distant ; the moon hid her red face in the east. A blast 
came from the mountain ; on its wings was the spirit of Loda. He came to his place 
in his terrors, and shook his dusky spear. His eyes appear like flames in his dark 
face ; his voice is like distant thunder. Fingal advanced his spear in night, and 
raised his voice on high. 

" ' Son of night, retire : call thy winds, and fly ! Why dost thou come to my presence 
with thy shadowy arms? Do I fear thy gloomy form, spirit of dismal Loda? Weak 
IS thy shield of clouds ; feeble is that meteor thy sword ! The blast rolls them together ; 
and thou thyself art lost. Fly from my presence, son of night! call thy winds and 
fly!' 

'"Dost thou force me from my place?' replied the hollow voice. 'The people 
bend before me. I turn the battle in the field of the brave. I look on the nations, 
and they vanish ; my nostrils pour the blast of death. I come abroad on the winds : 
the tempests are before my face. But my dwelling is calm, above the clouds ; the 
fields of my rest are pleasant.' 

'"Dwell in thy pleasant fields,' said the king. 'Let Combal's son be forgot. Do 
my steps ascend from my hills into thy peaceful plains ? Do I meet thee with a speai 
on thy cloud, spirit of dismal Loda ? Why then dost thou frown on me ? why shake 



260 H B A T H . 

thine airy spear ? Thou frownest in vain : I never fled from the mighty in war. And 
shall the sons of the wind frighten the king of Morven ? No : he knows the weakness 
of their arms ! ' 

« 'Fly to thy land,' replied the form ; 'receive thy wind, and fly ! The blasts are 
in the hollow of my hand ; the course of the storm is mine. The king of Sora is my 
son ; he bends at the stone of my power. His battle is around Carric-thura ; and he 
will prevail ! Fly to thy land, son of Combal, or feel my flaming wrath ! ' 

" He ILlied high his shadowy spear! He bent forward his dreadful height. Fingal, 
advancing, drew his sword ; the blade of dark-brown Luno. The gleaming path of 
the steel winds through the gloomy ghost. The form fell shapeless into air, like a 
column of smoke, which the stafl" of the boy disturbs as it rises from the half-extin- 
guished furnace." 

In 1837, there were in this town 2,716 merino sheep, which pro- 
duced 8,148 lbs. of wool, valued at .f 4,574. The value of leather 
tanned and curried was !|13,000. Population, 985. Distance, 20 
miles from Greenfield, 23 from Northampton, 53 to Albany, and 
about 120 from Boston. 



HEATH. 

This town was incorporated in 1785. Rev. Joseph Strong, the 
first minister, was settled here in 1790. The church originated 
from that in Charlemont, at the close of the Revolutionary war, 
when Mr. Leavitt was the minister of the latter. " It was a period 
of some difficulty, owing, in part, to the state of the times." The 
number of original members was thirty-five. Rev. Moses Miller 
succeeded Mr. Strong in the ministry, in 1804. It is stated in the 
American Quarterly Register, Feb. 1838, as follows, viz. : "The 
church now consists of about 200. It has been diminished 100, by 
emigration. About 60 families attend Mr. Miller's meeting; of 
which 15 do not belong to the parish. About 350 persons attend 
meeting statedly ; 30 families attend the Baptist meeting ; 10 the 
Methodist ; and 20 are Unitarians. At one time one third of the 
persons in town were professors of religion." 

This is principally an agricultural town. The principal articles 
manufactured in the town are palm-leaf hats ; of these, in 1837, 
there were 30,000 maiuifactured, valued at |5,000. The number 
of inhabitants in 1830 was 1.199 ; in 1837 it was reduced to 953. 
Distance, 4 miles N. of Charlemont, 13 from Greenfield, and 125 
from Boston. There are three churches in the town, 1 Congrega- 
tional, 1 Methodist, and 1 Baptist; and two post-oflices. One of 
the cordon of forts, built in 1744 for a defence against the Indians, 
was situated in this town, and was called Fort Shirley. 



LEVERETT 



This to\vn was incorporated in 1774. Rev. Henry Williams was 
installed pastor here in 1784. He died in 1811, and was succeed- 



LEY DEN. 261 

ed by Rev. Joel Wright, in 1812, who continued pastor till 1820 ; 
Rev. Joseph Sawyer, the next minister, was settled in 1822. The 
next was Rev. Jonas Colbnrn, who was settled in 1824; and was 
succeeded, in 1832, by Rev. Freegrace Reynolds. 

This is principally an agricultural town. In 1837, there were 
two scythe factories, which manufactured 2,400 scythes, valued at 
$1,600. Palm-leaf hats manufactured, 30,400; the value of which 
was $4,590. There are two Congregational churches, one in the 
north, the other in the south part of the town ; there are two post- 
offices. Population, 902. Distance, 3 miles E. from Sunderland, 
10 from Greenfield, and 85 from Boston. 



LEYDEN. 

This town Avas incorporated in 1809. It was formerly a part of 
Coleraine, and is now divided from that town by Green river, 
which, passing through Greenfield, passes into Deerfield river. 
There is one church in the town, which is situated in the central 
part, and belongs to the Baptists, the only regular denomination in 
the town. Agricultural pursuits is the business of the inhabitants. 
In 1837, there were 1,140 Saxony, 1,733 merino, and 269 other 
kinds of sheep in this town ; Saxony wool produced, 3,320 lbs. ; 
merino, 5,199 lbs. ; other kinds, 807 lbs. ; average weight of fleece, 
3 lbs. ; value of wool, $5,129 30; capital invested, ,$7,855. Popu- 
lation, 656. Distance, 7 miles from Greenfield, and 100 from Bos- 
ton. The " G^Ze^i," a narrow rocky pass, through which a branch 
of the Green river passes, is much admired for its wild and pic- 
turesque scenery. 

WiUiam Dorrell, the founder of the sect of DorreUites, it is believed is still living in 
the north-west corner of this town. He is a native of England, and was born in Glou- 
cestershire, about 1750, and was the son of a farmer. He enlisted as a soldier when 
he was twenty years of age. He came to America and was captured with Burgoyne. 
He lived for a time in Petersham, where he married a Avoman by the name of Polly 
Chase ; he lived afterwards in Warwick, and then removed into Leyden. He was 
visited by a gentleman in 1834, from whom the above, and following particulars are 
derived. He was found living in a poor old house, situated in a blealc place, far from 
any travelled road. He was six feet or more in height. He did not believe in the Bible. 
He said the first revelation was made to him when he was chopping wood ; it was, " Ren- 
der yourself an acceptable sacrifice," or something similar. He began to have follow- 
ers in the spring of 1794, and at one time twenty or more families joined him ; some 
were from Bernardston. Dorrell held that all days were alike, and also to non-resist- 
ance, and would say that no arm of flesh could hurt him. Some of his followers wore 
wooden shoes and tow cloth. Dorrell jwssessed a good deal of firmness of mind, and 
it is said that the organ for this was very fully develojied in his cranium. He was in 
the habit of occasionally drinking too much : he was, hcn^'ever, very punctual in ful- 
fiUing all his engagements, whether drunk or sober. *he sect of which he was the 
head, it is believed, has become extinct. 



MONROE 



This town was incorporated in 1822. It is situated on the high 
lands north of Hoosic river. Distance, 23 miles from Greenfield, 



262 



MONTAGUE. 



and 130 N. W. of Boston. Number of inhabitants, 232. It is 
stated that no religious society has yet been formed in the place. 
In 1837, there were 400 Saxony, 600 merino, and 103 other kinds 
of sheep ; the average weight of whose fleeces were three and one 
fourth pounds. 



MONTAGUE. 

Montague was incorporated as a town in 1753. Before that 
time, the southern part belonged to the town of Sunderland, and 
the northern part belonged to the state. It is about 6 miles square. 
The general face of the town is uneven, the soil various ; a range 
of highlands in the easterly part of the town, the parts of which 




Nonn-wesi view of Moruague, i^cenirai pan.) 

are designated by different names, Harvey's Hill, Chesnut Hill, 
Bald Hill, Pine Hill, Quarry Hill, &c. South-westerly from the 
present center of the town there is a hill called Taylor Hill. The 
northerly part consists of pine plains ; on the west of the town, 
bordering upon the Connecticut, there is quite an extensive tract of 
meadow land, of a good quality for cultivation. There is also 
upon the Saw-mill river, which takes its rise from Lock's Pond, 
Shutesbury, considerable meadow land. This river enters the town 
of Montague near the south-east corner, and winds its way in a 
north-westerly direction, passing northerly of the center of the town, 
and empties itself into the Connecticut, about one mile from the 
south-west corner of the town. The town affords many excellent 
water privileges. Timber, clay, granite and other stone of a good 
quality for building, are abundant. 

The above is a view from the north-west of the central part of 
the town, on the bank of Saw-mill river, showing the two churches, 
and some other buildings in the vicinity. In 1837, there was 
$6,000's worth of scythe-snaiths and f3,000's worth of palm-leaf 



MONTAGUE. 263 

hats manufactured. Population, 1,260. Distance, 7 miles from 
Greenfield, and 80 from Boston. 

In the north-westerly part of the town there is a canal 3 miles 
long, commencing at the head of Turner's falls, descent 70 feet, 
through which lumber and goods are conveyed in great abundance 
annually. There is a post-office at this place, called Montague 
Canal post-office. From time to time many traces of savage men 
are here discovered, such as points of arrows, stone chisels, &.c. 
The first ordained minister was the Rev. Judah Nash, as appears 
upon a slab of slate-stone over his grave ; was settled Nov. 17, 1752, 
died Feb. 19, 1805, having continued with his people 53 years. 
And it is engraven upon said slab, that 

" He was faithful to his God, a lover of the church, a friend to mankind. 

Ever ready to hear affliction's cry, 
And trace his Maker's will with a curious eye, 
He tried each art, reproved each dull delay, 
Allured to brighter worlds and led the w"ay. 
At church, with meek and unaffected grace, 
His look adorned the venerable place." 

The names of some of the first settlers are Ellis, Harvey, Root, 
Gunn, Taylor, Clapp, &c. The celebrated Capt. Jonathan Carver 
had his residence in this town for many years.* One of his daugh- 
ters married a Mr. Moses Gunn, who is still living in this place, 
and through the descent of his children by Capt. Carver's daughter 
claims an interest in what is called the Carver lands, granted 
him by the western Indians, situated in the Wisconsin Territory. 
The following was transcribed from a grave-stone in said Mon- 
tague, about one mile from the present center: — "In memory of 
Mrs. Olive, wife of Mr. Moses Gunn, and daughter of Capt. .Jona- 
than Carver of Montague, who died April 21, 1789, aged 30 years, 
leaving 4 children." 

That part of the town taken from Sunderland in early times 
was called Hunting-hill Fields, Tradition says that it was thick- 
ly inhabited by animals of the forest, such as bears, wolves, deer, 
and moose. From the many stories of hunters, one only is select- 
ed. " A Mr. Ebenezer Tuttle and his father, of this place, at the 
time of its first settlement, went out on a hunting expedition, agree- 
ing to continue out over night, designating the spot, about 3 miles 
from any house, in the easterly part of the town, in a gloomy 
forest. They separated for the objects of their pursuit. The son 
returned first to the place of encampment ; he had not been there 
long before he heard a noise, saw the bushes move, and, being 
somewhat frightened, he thought he saw a bear, levelled his piece 
and fired ; his father replied, ' You have killed me ! ' and soon expir 
ed. It was then almost dark. He took his father in his arms, with 
what emotions nor pen nor tongue can describe, and continued 
with him till day, and then went and gave information of what 
had taken place." In the grave-yard in said Montague there is 
the following inscription: — 

'*' Communication from J. Hartwell, Esq. 



264 NEW SALEM. 

"In memory of Mr. Elijah Bordwell, who died Jan"? 26, 1786, in y« 27th year of 
his age, having but a few days survived y^ fatal night when he was flung from his 
horse and dra^vn by y^ sturrup 26 rods along ye path, as appeared by y^ place where his 
hat was found, and here he had spent y° whole of the following severe cold night tread- 
ing down the snow in a small circle. The Family he left was an aged Father, a wife' 
and three small children."' 



NEW SALEM. 



This town was incorporated in 1753. The first inhabitants were 
chiefly from Middleborough, and some from Danvers. The first 
minister was Rev. Samuel Kendal, who died in 1792, and was 
succeeded in the ministry by Rev. Joel Foster, who was settled in 
1779 ; he resigned in 1802, and was succeeded by Rev. Warren 
Pierce. Rev. Alpheus Harding succeeded Mr. Pierce in 1807. 
The north Congregational society erected their meeting-house in 
1836, about three and a half miles north of the south church. 
The church (called the Orthodox) was organized in 1824. Rev. 
Levi French was settled pastor the next year; he was succeeded 
by Rev. Erastus Curtiss, in 1834. There is a Baptist church near 
the southern line of the town. 

The south Congregational church and the academy, which was 
incorporated in 1795, stand on a very elevated hill, which com- 
mands an extensive prospect over the neighboring valleys. " The 
fogs of Connecticut river seldom rise above this place, while it 
covers the surrounding country ; and the towering Monadnock on 
the north appear like islands rising from a boundless ocean." This 
place is 19 miles from Greenfield, 12 from Montague, 35 from 
Worcester, 10 from Athol, and 73 from Boston. The Millington 
post-ofiice, in this town, is 3 miles distant from this place, in a little 
village in the south part of the town. Population, 1,255. Agri- 
culture is the principal business of the inhabitants. The manu- 
facture of palm-leaf hats, however, receives considerable attention. 
In 1837, seventy-nine thousand were manufactured, valued at 
$13,575. 

The following, relative to Revolutionary times, is copied from 
the Barre Gazette. 

" The news of the battle at Lexington flew through New England like wildfire. The 
swift horseman with his red flag proclaimed it in every village, and made the stirring 
call upon the patriots to move forward in defence of the rights so ruthlessly invaded 
and now sealed with the martyr's blood. Putnam, it will be recollected, left his plough 
in the furrow and led his gallant band to Cambridge. Such instances of promptness 
and devotion were not rare. We have the following instance of the display of fervid 
patriotism from an eye-witness— one of those valued rehcs of the band of '76, whom 
now a grateful nation delights to honor. 

"When the intelligence reached New Salem in this state, the people were hastily as- 
sembled on the village green, by the notes of alarm. Every man came with his gun, 
and other hasty preparations for a short march. The militia of the town were then 
divided into two companies, one of which was commanded by Capt. G. This company 
was paraded before much consultation had been had upon the proper steps to be taken 
in the emergency, and while determination was expressed on almost every countenance, 
»he men stood silently leaning on their muskets, awaiting the movement of the spin' 



NORTH FIELD. •• . 265 

iH the officers. ' The captain was supposed to be tinctured \vith toryisni,_and his. present 
indecisioii and backwardness were ample proof, if n6t of his attachment to royalty, at 
least of his unfitness to lead a patriot band. ' Some murmms began to be heard, when 
the first lieutenant, William Stacy, took off his hat and addressed them. He was a 
man of stout heart, but of f(^w words. " Pulling his commission from his pocket, Ke 
said : '.Fellow-soldiers, L don't know exactly how' it is with the rest of you, but for one, 
I will no longer serve a king. that murders my own.countrytnen •;' and tearing the paper 
in a hundred pieces, he trod it un^.^r his foot. 'Sober as were ihe people by nature, 
they could not restrain a loud, wiM hurra *as he stepped forward and took his place m 
the ranks. G. still falterecl, and made a feeble endeavor to restore order ; but they 
heeded him as little as the Avind. The company was Summarily disbanded, and a reor- 
ganization begun on the spot. The gallant Stacy was unanimously, chosen captain, and ' 
with a prouder commission than was ever borne on parchment, he led a small but 
efficient band to Cambridge. He continued in sei'vice through the war, reaching, we 
believe, before its close, the rank of lieutenant-colonel, under the'command of Put- 
nam." . ' 

The following inscriptions are copied from monuments standing 
in the grave-yard near the south Congregational church. • 

Sacred to the memory of Rev"^- Samuel Kendall, who died Jan. 31, 1792, in the 85 
year of his age. first minister of New Salem. 

Equal in dust we all must lie ; 

And no distinction we can make, 
But Faith forbids the rising sigh, 

And sees my sleeping dust awake. 



In memory of Mrs. Lucy Kendall, the late virtuous & amiable consort of Mr. Sam- 
uel Kendall, Jr., who died Oct. y" 22, 1784, in the 34'''year of her age. 

Tantum mors temporalem vastat felicitatem.* 

Nor art nor virtue could redeem from death. 
Nor anxious love prolong her lab'ring breath ; 
Conjugal bands asunder must be torn. 
And thou, surviving partner, left to mourn ; 
But let her virtue now your grief suppress, 
And wait reluctant till you meet in bliss. 



NORTHFIELD 



" In 1672, a township was granted to John Pynchon, Mr. Pearson^ 
and other associates, at Squakheag, now Northfield, on Cohnecticut 
river; and the following year a few people from Northampton^ 
Hadley, and Hatfield, began a plantation at that place. The 
township was laid out on both sides of the river, and included an 
area of six miles by twelve, extending several miles into the pre- 
sent states of New Hampshire and Vermont, including a valuable 
tract of interval land. The northern boundary of Massachusetts 
was at this time unknown, but the grant was supposed to be within 
the limits of the province. A deed to William Clark and John 
King of Northampton, agents for the proprietors o{ Northfield, 
covering the grant, was made August 13, 1687, by Nawelet Gon- 
gegua, Aspiambelet, Addarawanset, and Meganichcha, Indians of 

* Thus does death destroy temporal (happiness) felicity. 
3G 



266 



NORTH FIELD 



the place, in consideration of 'two hundred fathom of wampum 
and fifty-seven pounds worth of trading goods.' It was signed 
with the marks of the grantors, and witnessed by Jonatlian Hunt, 
Preserved Clap, William Clark, Jr., Peter Jethro, Joseph Atherton, 
and Israel Chauncey." "The planters built small huts, and co- 
vered them with thatch ; made a place for public worship ; and 
built a stockade and fort." 

A great part of Northfield is excellent land, particularly several 
valuable intervals on both sides of Connecticut river. The village 
of Northfield is situated on an elevated plain, rising above the 
meadows on the Connecticut. The main street runs parallel with 
the river, and is about a mile in length ; it is wide, and ornamented 
with shade trees. The houses are handsomely built. There are 
two churches and an academy in the village. 




Southern view in the central part of Northfield. 

The above is a southern view in the central part of the village, 
showing the Unitarian church and some other buildings, with the 
shade trees ; the whole intended to give a characteristic view of 
the appearance of the village. This place is about 12 miles from 
Greenfield, 12 from Brattleborough, Vt, 16 from New Salem, 13 
to Montague, 78 to Hartford, Ct., and 78 to Boston. Population, 
1,605. Very little is done in the manufacturing business at present 
in this town. 

Northfield has suffered much from the horrors of Indian warfare 
and bloodshed. Upon the opening of Philip's war, Northfield, be- 
ing a frontier settlement, was much exposed to the attacks of the 
enemy. In the beginning of September, 1675, nine or ten people 
were killed in the woods at Northfield ; others escaped to the gar- 
rison-house. The day after this took place, and before it was 
known at Hadley, Capt. Beers, with thirty-six mounted infantry, 
was detached by Major Treat, to convoy provisions to the garri- 
son and people at Northfield. Beers' route led through the present 



NORTHFIELD. 267 

towns of Sunderland, Montague, and the tract called Erving's 
Grant, then a continued forest, through which was an imperfect 
road, the distance of nearly thirty miles ; and though continually 
exposed to attacks, he passed several difficult places, and among 
others Miller's river, without seeing an Indian. Dismounting and 
leaving the horses, the march was continued on foot, and was ne- 
cessarily retarded by an accompanying baggage. At the distance 
of about two miles from the garrison at Northfield, the route lay 
over a deep swampy ravine, through which ran a considerable 
brook, emptying into Connecticut river. Discovering Beers' ap- 
proach, a large body of Indians formed an ambuscade at this place, 
and lay ready to attack his front and right. Without discovering 
the snare. Beers arrived at the point, and received the fire of the 
Indians from the margin of the ravine on his right. A considera- 
ble proportion of the party fell on the spot ; the remainder instantly 
broke, and, in scattered order, retreated over a piece of level 
ground, closely followed by the Indians. Beers, with a few of his 
men, gained an abrupt hill, about three fourths of a mile in his 
rear, where they bravely maintained their ground some time against 
an overwhelming force ; but at length he received a fatal shot, and 
the survivors were compelled to retire from the ground. Out of 
the thirty-six, only sixteen escaped back to Hadley, leaving the 
baggage and wounded in the hands of the enemy.^ Two days 
after this fatal disaster, Major Treat, with one hundred men, ar- 
rived on the ground where Beers was defeated, and witnessed the 
horrid barbarity of the savages. Several of the slain were behead- 
ed, and their heads were elevated on poles near the road ; one man 
was suspended to the limb of a tree, by a chain hooked to his un- 
der jaw, probably when alive, and the whole scene was appalling. 
Pursuing his march to the town, the major found the garrison safe, 
and brought them off with the inhabitants. The Indians soon 
after destroyed the fort, houses, and every thing valuable in tht; 
town. 

During the first part of " King William's war," which com- 
menced in 1690, Northfield was again occupied by a few settlers, pro- 
tected by small works, and a few troops, furnished by government ; 
but the people were at length compelled to abandon it, on which 
the Indians the second time destroyed the place. Immediately 
after the peace of 1713, the settlers of Northfield returned to their 
plantations, rebuilt their houses, and one for public worship; and 
in 1718, they settled Mr. Benjamin Doolittle, from Wallingford, 
Con., as minister of the place, which then consisted of about thirty 
families. The following is the date of the settlement of the cler- 
gymen succeeding Mr. Doolittle: .lohn Hubbard in 1750; Samuel 

* Hoyfs Indian Wars. The ground where this disaster took place is still called Beers! 
ylain, and the hill where the captain fell, Beers' mot(ntai?i. At a sandy knoll on the 
west side of the road, near the place where the attack commenced, the bones of the 
slain were a few years since to be found bleaching in the sun. The mail route from 
Montague to Northfield formerly passed over the ground ; it now runs a little to th« 
west. Janes' mill is situated a small distance north of the place of attack. 



268 



ORANGE. 



C. Allen in 1795 ; Thomas Mason in 1799 ; George W. Hosmer in 
1830; Oliver C. Everett in 1837. The Trinitarian church was 
formed in 1825. Eli Moody and Bancroft Fowler have been min- 
isters of this church. The Methodist church stands in the south- 
ern part of the town. 

[From the Boston Post Boy, May 12, 1746.] 
•' By an express from the westward, we are informed, that the Indians kill'd a man 
who was going from Lunenburg to Northfield, about a fortnight ago, but was not found 
until last Monday. He had been to Boston, and was on his return home, with about 
four or five hundred pounds with him in paper bills, which he was carrying up to 
Northfield to pay the billeting of soldiers. — And that at No. 4, another man was 
killed last Friday sev'night, the circumstances of which are pretty remarkable. Maj. 
Willard with several soldiers went as a guard to some women, not far from the 
fort, who went out to milk their cows. Two of the party having separated to go to the 
barn, one of them seeing a door of the stable open, ran before to shut it, fearing the cat- 
tle might have got in there ; and just as he had got to the door, he saw 7 or 8 of them 
in the stable; upon which he cried out, ^/ie5Z«i/e is full of Indians ! They not minding it, 
the Indians rushed out and fired upon them, and shot this man. The major and guard 
hearing the gvins, called the men to arms, and advanced in haste toward the enemy ; 
but before they got nigh enough, they saw one of the Indians, a very stout fellow, run 
up to the man they had shot and strike him on the head, which entirely dispatched him ; 
but the major getting good aim, fired, and supposes to have struck him, as they 
were scouring off, this fellow being seen from the fort to drop at some distance, but was 
carried off by the others ; also much blood was seen at the place, and his blankets, very 
bloody, were found." 

The following inscriptions were copied from monuments in the 
burial-ground in this place : 

Rev. John Hubbard, A. BI., second minister of this town, died Nov. 28, 1794, in the 
69"* year of his age, and 45''' of his ministry. 

A man he was to all his people dear 

And passing rich with eighty pounds a year ; 

Remote from towns, he held his godly race. 

Nor ever changed, nor wish'd to change his place. 

In duty, faithful, prompt at every call. 

He watch'd, and wept, and prayM for all ; 

He try'd each art, reproved each dull delay, 

Allur'd to brighter worlds, and led the way. 

In memory of the Rev. Mr. Benjamin Doolittle, first pastor of the church in North 
field, who died Jan.''- y O"". 1748, in the 54"' year of his age & 30'h year of his minis- 
try. 



Bless'd with good hUelectiial pans, 
Well skilled in two important arts, 
Nobly he filled the double station 
Both of a preacher and physician. 
To euro men's sicknesses and sins, 
He took unwearied care and pains; 
And strove to make his patient whole 
Throughout, in body and in soul. 



He lov'd his God, lov'd to do good, 
To all his friends vast kindness show'd ; 
Nor could his enem'»s exclaim, 
And say he waa iiol kind to them. 
His labors met a sudden close, 
Now he en joys a sweet repose ; 
And when the just to life shall rise. 
Among the first, he'll mount the skies. 



ORANGE. 

This town was incorporated in 1783. The face of the township 
is generally rough and uneven. Miller's river, which now passes 
through the central part of the town, affords valuable water privi- 
leges. Mr. Emerson Foster and Mr. Chandler are the only minis- 



R O W E, 



269 



tcrs who have been settled over tlie old church in Orange, now in 
the northern section of the town. Mr. Foster was minister here 
about 1798. Mr. Chandler was in the place but a short time. In 
1837 an ecclesiastical council convened and organized a church, 
called the " Evangelical Church of Orange." 




Southern vieiv of Orange, [antral part.) 

The above is a southern view of the flourishing little village of 
Orange, now in the central part of the town. Miller's river, which 
passes through the place, Avas formerly the southern boundary of 
Orange. The northern part of New Salem has been quite recently 
annexed to this town, so that this village is now in the central part. 
The forests have been recently cleared away in the immediate 
vicinity, and the place presents the appearance of a new settlement 
springing up in the wilderness. Population of the town in April, 
1837, Avas 1,543. Distance. 75 miles from Boston. In 1837, there 
were manufactured in this town 72,300 palm-leaf hats, the value 
of which was $12,050. 



R O W E . 

This town was incorporated in 1785. It has an elevated situa- 
tion, and was originally purchased by a Mr. .Tones. In 1838. the 
legislature annexed a part of an unincorporated tract, called j^onr, 
to this town. This tract comprised 1,875 acres of land, adjoining 
the south part of the town, on which were six families. One of the 
cordon efforts erected about 1744 for a defence against the French 
and Indians was situated in this town. The ruins of this fortifi- 
cation, called Fort Pelltam, are situated south-east of the Congre- 
gational church in the center of the town, on Pelham brook, a 
small stream, being the only one passing through the town. Rev. 
Preserved Smith, the first minister, was settled" here in 1787; his 
successor was Rev. Jonathan Keith, was settled in 1 808, and was 



270 SHELBURNE. 

succeeded by Mr. Smith, who again settled in 1812. His successor 
was Rev. William D. Stearns, was settled in 1835. Rev. John C. 
Thompson was settled over the Trinitarian church in 1835. There 
are four religious societies and four meeting-houses in this town. 
Population, 688. Distance, 22 miles from Greenfield and 130 from 
Boston. There is a woollen mill in this town. In 1837 there 
were 302 Saxony, 1,630 merino, and 364 of other kinds of sheep, 
producing wool to the value of $4,249 80. 



SHELBURNE. 



This town was originally a part of Deerfield, called Deei^Jield 
North- West. It received its present name from Lord Shelbiir7ie, 
of England. It was incorporated a distinct town in 1768. The 
first settlement was made in the eastern part of the town ; the first 
meeting-house, which was built of logs and plastered, stood about 
half a mile north of the present Congregational church in the cen- 
ter of the town. The first Congregational minister was Rev. Ro- 
bert Hubbard, who was settled in 1773 ; he died in Middletown, Ct. 
in 1788, aged 45. His successor was Rev. Jesse Townsend, who 
was settled in 1792, and resigned in 1797 ; the next pastor was 
Rev. Theophilus Packard, D. D., who was settled in 1799; he 
was succeeded by his son of the same name in 1828. The Shakers 
came into this town in 1782; they continued here about three 
years, when they removed to New Lebanon : a Mr. Wood was 
their elder or leader. The oldest house now standing in Shelburne 
Falls village was built by these people. The first Baptist church 
in this town was formed in 1788, and their first minister was a 
Mr. Green ; in 1792 Rev. David Long became its pastor, and con- 
tinued his labors nearly forty years. The Unitarian society was 
formed in 1828. The Rev. Pliny Fiske, a missionary to Palestine, 
who died at Beyroot, in Syria, in 1825, was a native of this town. 

The following is a S. Eastern view of Shelburne Falls village, on 
Deerfield river, on the western boundary of the town. It consists 
of about thirty dwelling-houses, a church, an academy, and other 
buildings. The descent of the river at this place is forty-seven feet 
in the distance of forty rods, which affords abundant water power 
for several mills for different purposes. This village is uncom- 
monly neat and beautiful in its general appearance. The engra- 
ving shows the northern part. Deerfield river runs a few rods 
westward of the houses represented ; it bends round to the east- 
ward, passing over a rocky bed, falling in some places perpen- 
dicularly, foaming and roaring. This, with the elevated banks on 
each side, covered with forest trees, presents a wild and pictu- 
resque scene. 

The church seen in the engraving in the distance is the Baptist 
church, erected in 1836. The second Baptist church was formed 
in 1833, and the Rev. John Alden, Jr., was constituted pastor. 



SHUTBSBURY. 



271 




South-eastern view of Sheldurne Falls Village. 

The Franklin Academy, located in this village, was incorporated 
in 1823. Two buildings are connected with the institution : one, 
(the academy) is a brick edifice, 52 feet by 38, and three stories 
in height. It is seen in the engraving in the distance, with a 
small tower or steeple on the roof. The other is the house occu- 
pied by the principal, and others connected with the academy. 
It is 80 feet by 30, and stands about 60 rods east of the brick 
building. The average number of scholars for the last five years 
has been about 90 each term. Ever since its formation it has been 
under the charge of Mr. Alden, the Baptist clergyman mentioned 
above. This place is 4 miles from the center of the town, 9 from 
Greenfield, 25 from Northampton, and 100 from Boston. Popula- 
tion, 1,018. In 1837 there was one woollen mill; 1 scythe manu- 
factory, which manufactured 7,200 scythes, the value of which was 
$9,400. Fifteen hands were employed in the manufacture of scythe 
snaiths ; capital invested in this manufacture was $10,000. There 
were 6,000 palm-leaf hats manufactured, valued at $1,000. The 
value of wool produced in the town was $4,500 ; boots and shoes, 
$4,000. 



SHUTESBURY. 

This town was incorporated in 1761. The town was first set- 
tled mostly by people from Sudbury, in 1754, and was at that 
period called koad Town. The land is uneven, encumbered with 
stones, and the soil is generally of an inferior quality. The Rev. 
Abraham Hill, the first Congregational minister, was settled here 
in 1742. Imbibing political sentiments hostile to the American 
cause, Mr. Hill was alienated from his people, and was regularly 
dismissed, in 1778 ; the church was reduced to one member. It 



272 SUNDERLAND. 

was reorganized in 1806 with 20 members. Rev. John Taylor 
was settled here, 1816 ; his successor was Rev. Martyn Cushman. 
Population, 816. Distance, 16 miles from Greenfield, 9 from 
Amherst, and 78 from Boston. In 1837, there were 22,000 palm- 
leaf hats manufactured. 

The following account of Mr. Ephraim Pratt, of this town, who 
hved to a vevy advanced age, is from the second volume of Dr. 
Dwight's Travels, page 358. 

"He was born at Sudbury, Massachusetts, in 1687; and in one month from the 
date of our arrival (Wednesday, Nov. 13th, 1803) would complete his one hundred and 
sixteenth year. He was of middle stature ; firmly built ; plump, but not encumbered 
with flesh ; less withered than multitudes at seventy ; possessed of considerable 
strength, as was evident from the grasp of his hand and the sound of his voice ; and 
without any marks of extreme age. About two months before, his sight became so 
impaired, that he was unable to distinguish persons. His liearing, also, for a short 
time had been so imperfect, that he could not distinctly hear common conversation. 
His memory was still vigorous ; his understanding sound ; and his mind sprightly 
in its conceptions. 

" The principal part of the time which I was in the house, he held me by the hand ; 
cheerfully answered all my questions ; readily gave me an account of himself in such 
particulars as I wished to know ; observed to me that my A'oice indicated that I was 
not less than forty-five years of age, and that he must appear very old to me ; adding, 
however, that some men, who had not passed their seventieth year, probably looked 
almost, or quite, as old as himself. The remark was certainly just ; but it was the first 
time that I had heard persons who had reached the age of seventy considered as 
being young. We were informed, partly by himself and partly by his host, that he had 
been a laborious man all his life ; and particularly, that he had mown grass one hun- 
dred and one years successively. The preceding summer he had been unable to per- 
form this labor. During this season his utmost effort was a walk of half a mile. lo 
this walk he stumbled over a log, and fell. Immediately afterwards he began evi- 
dently to decline, and lost in a considerable degree both his sight and hearing. In 
the summer of 1802, he walked without inconvenience two miles, and mowed a small 
quantity of grass. 

" Throughout his life he had been uniformly temperate. Ardent spirits he rarely 
tasted ; cider he drank at times, but sparingly. In the vigorous periods of life he had 
accustomed himself to eat flesh, but much more abstemiously than most other per- 
sons in this country. Milk, which had always been a great part, was now the whole 
of his diet. He is naturally cheerful, and humorous ; apparently unsusceptible of 
tender emotions ; and not much inclined to serious thinking. According to an account 
which he gave his host, he made a public profession of religion near seventy years 
before our visit to him ; but was not supposed by him, nor by others acquainted 
with him, to be a religious man. He conversed easily, and was plainly gratified 
with the visits and conversation of strangers. When he was ninety-three. years old, he 
made a bargain with his host, (who told us the story,) that he should support liim 
during the remainder of his life for £20. 

"He was never sick but once, and then wth the fever and ague. It is scarcely 
necessary to observe, that a man one hundred and sixteen years old, without religion, 
was a melancholy sight to me. 

" Three or four years before this time I saw in a newspaper an advertisement, written 
by a person who professed and appeared to be acquainted with him and his con- 
cerns, in which it was said that his descendants, some of whom were of the fifth 
generation, amounted probably to more than 1,500." 



SUNDERLAND. 



This town was originally a part of Hadley. It was incorpo- 
rated as a town in 1718, and the Rev. Josiah Willard Avas ordained 
the first minister the same year. Mr. Willard died in 1790, aged 



SUNDERLAND. 



273 



ninety years. The following ministers have succeeded him, viz. 
William Rand, who settled here in 1724 ; Joseph Ashley, in 1747 ; 
Asa Lyon, in 1792; David H. Williston, in 1804; James Taylor, 
in 1807 ; Henry B. Holmes, in 1833. 

The central village of Sunderland is pleasantly situated on a 
fine interval of land on the east bank of Connecticut river. It 
consists of about fifty dwelling-houses and a Congregational 
church. The village street is about three fourths of a mile in 
extent. The North village is about three miles from the center, 
and contains about fifteen or twenty dwellings, and a Baptist 
church. Plum Tree village is three miles south, and is about the 
size of the north village. At the central village there is a bridge 
over the Connecticut, 858 feet in length ; it was built in 1832, at an 
expense of $20,000. The village is handsomely built, and the 
scenery in the vicinity is uncommonly interesting : the Sugar-loaf 
mountain rises at about half a mile's distance, on the western 
bank of the river, in solitary and striking grandeur ; while Mount 
Toby rises to the eastward. Population, 729. Distance, 10 miles 
from Greenfield, 10 from Hadley, 5 from Montague, 29 from Spring- 
field, 70 from Albany, N. Y., and 85 from Boston. The value 
of corn brooms manufactured in this place in 1837 was $11,415. 

Mount Toby is a sand-stone mountain, elevated about a thousand feet above Con- 
necticut river, and lies partly in Sunderland and partly in Leverett, and is almost 
covered with forests. On the north-west side of this mountain, in the north part of 
Sunderland, are a cave and fissure which have attracted some attention. " The follow^ 
ing section will, I apprehend,"' says Prof. Hitchcock in his Geological Report, "reni 
der intelligible, not merely the form and situation of this cave and fissure, but also 
the mode of their production. They occur in a conglomerate rock of new red sand-stone, 




on the north-west side of Mount Toby, in the north part of Sunderland. The con-glome- 
rate strata are several feet thick ; and immediately beneath this rock lies a slaty 
micaceous sand-stone, which is very subject to disintegration ; as may be seen a little 
north of the cave, where the conglomerate projects several feet beyond the slate, whose 
ruins are scattered around. The spot is, perhaps, 300 or 400 feet above Connecticut 
river ; yet there is the most conclusive proof in all the region around, that water once 
acted powerfully, and probably for a long period, at various elevations on the sides of 
this mountain ; and not improbably this aqueous agency assisted in undermining the 
conglomerate rock by wearing away the sand-stone." 

At A and B, the rock is but slightly removed from its original position ; but in the 
space between these points, the slate appears to have been worn away, so as to cause 
the whole conglomerate stratum, which is from 50 to 60 feet thick, and consequently 
of immense weight, to fall down, producing the fissure a and the cavern b. The fis- 
sure is 9 feet wide at the top, and open to d, 40 feet ; below which it is filled with 
rubbish. The cavern is wider than this in some parts, though very irregular in this 
respect. Its bottom also is rendered very uneven by the large masses of rock that have 
tumbled down. In the deepest spot (56 feet) the rocks are separated to the surface, 

37 



274 WENDELL. 

SO as to let the light from above. The whole length of the cavern is 148 feet. Its 
general direction is nearly east and west ; but towards its eastern part it turns almost 
at right angles to the left, in consequence of the rock A having been broken in a 
north and south direction from the mass of the mountain." 



WARWICK 



The Indian name for this town was Shaomet. It was incorpo- 
rated as a town in 1763. The first church which \tas formed here, 
in 1760, consisted of twenty-six members. Rev. Lemuel Hedge, the 
first minister, was ordained here December 3d, 1760, on the day 
of the formation of the church; he died in 1777, aged 44 years. 
His successor was Rev. Samuel Reed, who was settled here in 
1779 ; he died in 1812, aged 57. Rev. Preserved Smith, the suc- 
cessor of Mr. Reed, was settled in 1814. The church and society 
now worship in the third house that has been built for the society; 
it was erected in 1836. The Trinitarian church in this place was 
organized in 1829, and consisted at that time of thirty members. 
Rev. Samuel Kingsbury, the first minister, was installed pastor in 
1833, and resigned in 1835. His successor was Rev. Roger C. 
Hatch. 

There is in the central part of the town an insulated, mountain- 
ous elevation, called Mount Grace^ from which there is a fine 
prospect. There is a scythe factory in the town. In 1837, there 
were manufactured here 47,000 palm-leaf hats, which were valued 
at $6,400. Population, 1,111. Distance, 14 miles from Green- 
field, 22 south from Keene, N. H., and 78 from Boston. In 1812, 
there was a glass manufacturing company established here, with a 
capital of $70,000. 



WENDELL. 



Thts town was incorporated in 1781. It is mostly a farming 
town, composed of scattered plantations, there being no considera- 
ble village in the town. The surface is uneven, but not much 
broken or precipitous. There are two houses of worship in the 
central part of the town, one a Congregational, the other a Bap- 
tist church. Rev. Joseph Kilburn, a Congregational minister, was 
settled here in 1783; he died in 1815, and his successors have 
been Rev. Hervey Wilbur, Rev. John B. Duncklee, and Pvev. Wil- 
liam Claggett. 

Miller river, which forms the northern boundary of the town, 
is here a fine stream, and adds much to the beauty and fertility 
of this part of the township. Population, 847. Distance, 14 
miles from Greenfield, and 80 from Boston. In 1837, there were 
37,000 palm-leaf hats manufactured here, valued at |5,000 ; the 
value of boots and shoes manufactured was $5,250. 



HAMPDEN COUNTY. 275 

WHATELY. 

The territory comprising this town was a part of the original 
grant of Hadley, from wliich it was separated, with Hatfield, in 
1761, with which town it remained one hundred years, till its 
incorporation in 1771. The Rev. Rufus Wells, the first Congre- 
gational minister, was ordained here in 1771 ; he died in 1834, at 
the age of ninety. Rev. Lemuel P. Bates, a native of Blandford, 
Scotland, was settled as colleague with Mr. Wells in 1822 ; he 
resigned in 1832, and was succeeded by Rev. John Ferguson in 
1836. There is a small Baptist church in the western part of the 
town. 

There is a considerable quantity of interval land on Connecticut 
river, but it is not of the first quality. The town street, which 
passes by the Congregational church, runs parallel with the river 
about two miles westward ; between this street and the river there 
is an extensive tract of swampy land, called Whately Swamp, 
extending from north to south almost the entire length of the town. 
Westward of the street above mentioned, the township is hilly, and 
the soil in many places rich and fertile. In 1837, there were 3 
woollen mills, which consumed 52,500 lbs. of wool, employing 36 
hands, 13 males, 23 females ; 57,000 yards of cloth were manufac- 
tured, valued at $'37,000. The value of palm-leaf hats manufac- 
tured was $7,500 ; value of gimblets manufactured, $11,125 ; value 
of brooms and brushes manufactured, $6,877; value of pocket-books 
and wallets, $16,000; value of stone ware, $3,000. Population, 
1,140. Distance, 11 miles south of Greenfield, 9 from Northampton, 
and 92 from Boston. 



HAMPDEN COUNTY. 

Hampden county was incorporated in 1812, previous to which it 
formed the southern part of the old county of Hampshire. The 
soil is generally quite fertile and well cultivated, particularly on 
Connecticut river, which centrally intersects the county. There 
are also fine lands on Westfield river. Chicopee river and its 
branches afford great water power; it flows westward, and passes 
into the Connecticut in Springfield. Agriculture has been the 
principal business of the inhabitants; of late years great attention 
has been paid to the manufacturing business. The New Haven 
and Northampton canal runs through the eastern section of the 
county, and promises great facilities for the transportation of 
various articles to, and from southern markets. The Western 
railroad from Boston to Albany is now in progress, and will 
extend through the whole length of this county from east to west. 
A range of the Green mountains lies along the whole western bor- 
der of this county, separating it from Berkshire. The Lyme range 
of mountains rises in the eastern part, and extends in a southerly 
line into Connecticut. The following is a list of the towns, which 
are 18 in number. 



276 B R I M F 1 E L D . 

Blandford, Longmeadow, Russell, Westfield, 

Brimfield, Ludlow, Southwick, West Springfield, 

Chester, Monson, Springfield, Wilbraham. 

Granville, Montgomery, Tolland, 

Holland, Palmer, Wales, 

The population of this county in 1820 was 28,021 ; in 1830, it 
was 31,610; in 1837, it was 33,627. 



BLANDFORD 



This town was incorporated in 1741. The inhabitants to a 
great extent are descended from a company of emigrants, of the 
Presbyterian denomination, from the north of Ireland, by whom 
this town was originally settled. The Rev. Mr. McClenathan 
appears to have been the first minister; it is supposed that he was 
from Ireland. .Joseph Patrick and .Tames Morton appear to have 
been the next in order, Joseph Badger and Jonathan Keep the 
next. Mr. Badger was for three years a soldier in the revolutionary 
war. Rev. Dorus Clark was settled here in 1823, he resigned in 
1835 ; he was succeeded by Rev. Charles J. Hinsdale, in 1836. 

This township is situated principally upon the eastern side of 
a range of the Green mountains. In this town commences the ridge 
of rocky hills which extend to Pittsfield, in Berkshire county. In 
1837, there were in this town 1 woollen mill, with 2 sets of 
machinery ; 13,000 yards of cloth were manufactured, valued at 
$18,000; 1 paper-mill, which manufactured 60 tons of paper, val- 
ued at $2,500. There were 1,535 cows ; cheese manufactured, 
230,000 lbs.; butter, 20,000 lbs.; value of cheese, $16,100 ; butter, 
$3,000; males employed, 200; females, 300; capital invested, 
$60,000. Population, 1,443. Distance, 15 miles from Springfield, 
and 116 from Boston. 



BRIMFIELD. 



This town was granted by the general court, in the year 1701, 
to a number of petitioners, inhabitants of Springfield. The town- 
ship as originally granted was 8 miles square, and was at first 
designated by the "Plantation adjoining Springfield;" but the 
committee, for the sake of convenience, as stated in the records, 
soon gave it the name of Brimfield. The first grants of land 
were made in December, 1701, to 13 persons. Very little seems to 
have been done towards the settlement of the place for a conside- 
rable time, owing probably to the embarrassments occasioned by 
the war with the French and Indians. In 1717, the proprietors' 
committee petitioned for an extension of the township 3 miles fur- 
ther east, which was granted. After this the settlement progressed 
rapidly. Among the early settlers who came from Springfield 
are found the names of Sherman, Lombard, Pynchon, Hitchcock 



BRIMFIELP 



277 



Brooks, Morgan, Burt, Charles, Collins, Keep, Scott, Stebbins, 
Warriner, Nichols, Graves and Bliss. The Thomson family came 
from Wobnrn, and the Blodget and Rnsscl families from Lexington, 
The first family which settled in Brimfield was of the name of 
Hitchcock, in 1714 or 1715. The principal settlers were from 
Springfield.* The town was incorporated in 1730, and inclnded 
within its original limits the towns of Monson, Wales, and Hol- 
land. In 1722, a meeting-house, 45 feet by 40, was erected, and 
stood more than eighty years. The records of the church were 
burnt in 174S, and some early interesting facts cannot now be 
ascertained. Rev. Richard Treat, the first minister, (a native of 
Milford, Conn.) was probably ordained in 1725 ; his successor, 
Rev. James Bridgham, was settled in 1736 : the next minister was 
Rev. Nehemiah Williams, who continued in the ministry nearly 
twenty-two years, and died in 1796, aged 47. Rev. Clark Brown, 
his successor, was dismissed in 1803, agreeably to his own request. 
Rev. Warren Fay, D. D., was settled here in 180S, and remained two 
years and eight months ; Rev. Joseph Vaill and Rev. Joseph Ful- 
ler have been the succeeding ministers. Most of the people of 
Brimfield, from its first settlement, have continued of one religious 
denomination. 




South-eastern view of Brimfield. 

The above is a south-eastern view of the central part of the vil- 
lage of Brimfield, which consists of about 40 dwelling-houses, a 
number of stores and mechanic shops. The manufacture of boots 
and shoes is an important branch of business in this place. A 
few rods south of the Congregational church, seen in the engra- 
ving, was the residence of Gen. Eaton, celebrated for his daring 



* Notice of Brimfield in the •• American Quartcrl)- Eegi^ter,'' vol. x, by B. B. 
Edwards. Mr. Edwards has drawn up a full list of all the Congregational minis- 
ters in the old county of Hampshire, with historical notices, evidently with much labor 
and accuracy, and the author of this work would here express his obligations to that 
valuable pubUcation for much historical information. 



278 B R I M F I E L D . 

expedition through the deserts of Barca, in Africa. This town 
contains much good land, and is finely watered by Chicopee and 
Quinebaug rivers. In 1837, there were 10,000 pairs of boots and 
3fi,000 pairs of shoes manufactured in this town, the value of 
which was $58,650 ; males employed, 125 ; females, 50. There 
were 12,780 palm-leaf hats manufactured, valued at $5,112. 
There was 1 cotton mill, with 1,332 spindles; 230,000 yards of 
cloth were manufactured, valued at $19,500. Distance, 19 miles 
from Springfield, 25 miles south-west of Worcester, and 70 from 
Boston. Population, 1,518. 

Gen. William Eaton spent the last years of his life in this town, 
where he died and was buried. He was born in Woodstock, Conn., 
Feb. 23, 1764. 

" At a very early period he disclosed strong indications of intellectual vigor, and of 
mental eccentricity. At the age of about Iti years, without the knowledge or consent 
of his parents, he went from home and enlisted into the army. This was in 1780, near 
the close of the revolutionary war; and young Eaton continued in the army until 
the close of the war, a considerable part of the time in the humble station of a pri- 
vate soldier ; but he attained the rank of a sergeant. After the peace, in 1784, he 
commenced the study of the Latin language, and the year after was admitted a 
member of Dartmouth college, where he graduated in 1790, the period of his colle- 
giate life having been protracted, from the circumstance of his having devoted a portion 
of his time to school-keeping, which his want of pecuniary resources rendered 
necessary. 

" In October, 1791, he was chosen clerk of the house of delegates of Vermont, resid- 
ing at that time in the town of Windsor, where he had been engaged in school- 
keeping. In March, 1792, he was appointed a captain in the army of the United 
States; and whilst in this situation, he performed various services upon the western 
and southern frontiers. He continued in the army until 1797, when he was appointed 
consul to Tunis. He continued in this difficult (and it may be added, perilous) situa- 
tion until 1803, during which period he discharged the consular functions with great 
firmness and ability. In 1804, Gen. Eaton returned to America and visited Washing- 
ton, where he disclosed the famous enterprise which he had planned to restore the 
ex-bashaw of Tripoli, and having obtained the sanction of government, he embarked in 
July of the same year, in the Argus sloop of war, with the intention of engaging in 
this bold and hazardous undertaking, and arrived at Alexandria, in Egypt, on the 25th 
of November following. From Alexandria he proceeded to Cairo, where he found the 
ex-bashaw, who approved of the enterprise, and after having made suitable arrange- 
ments, and recruited about 500 men, (100 of which only were Christians,) it was 
determined by Eaton and the ex-bashaw to cross the desert and seize the province and 
city of Derne. After a difficult and fatiguing journey, through a dreary. desert, pre- 
senting innumerable obstacles, they arrived within the province of Derne, and soon 
attacked and captured the city, having the assistance of the Hornet sloop of war. 
The boldness and desperate bravery of Gen. Eaton and his little party alarmed the 
reigning bashaw and his barbarian subjects, who almost thought they were something 
more than human beings; but the progress of Gen. Eaton was arrested by a peace 
which the American consul concluded with the bashaw. After this. Gen. Eaton 
returned to his native country, and was every where received with the most distin- 
guished applause, the grateful tribute of patriotic and heroic achievements. 

" Gen. Eaton was a very extraordinary character; he possessed much original 
genius, was bold in his conceptions, ardent in his passions, determined in his resolu- 
tions, and indefatigably persevering in his conduct. He possessed considerable lite- 
rary acquirements, and the style of his writings was characteristic of his mind ; bold, 
energetic, and decisive. His courage was equalled only by his resolution ; and the 
boldness of his enterprises, by his ability and perseverance to execute them."* 

His majesty the king of Denmark presented him with an elegant 
* Pease and Niles' Gazetteer of Connecticut. 



CHESTER. 



279 



acknowledgment, in a gold box, of services he rendered several 
captured Danes at Tunis, and he also received from Massachu- 
setts the gift of 10,000 acres of land, in token of the respect in 
which his talents and services were held by that state. 

Epitaphs copied from the burying-yard in Brimfield. 

This is erected as a faint expression of filial respect ; and to mark the spot where 
repose the remains of Gen. William Eatqn, who died June 1st, 1811, JE,. 47. 



In memory of Stephen Pynchon, Esq., who died Feb. 5, 1828, JE. 55. 

One truth is certain, when this life is o'er 
Man dies to live ; and lives, to die no more.' 



CHESTER. 

This town was incorporated in 1765. The Rev. Aaron Bascom 
and Samuel M. Emerson appear to have been the first ministers. 
Rev. Rufus Pomeroy was settled here in 1819 ; he resigned in 1827, 
and was succeeded by Rev. Saul Clark in 1829. Mr. Clark was 
succeeded by Rev. Alanson Alvord, in 1834. 




The above is a southern view of Chester village^ situated in 
the south-eastern corner of the town of Chester. This place 
is situated at the corners of four toAvns, viz; Chester, Blandford, 
Norwich, and Montgomery. The Methodist church seen in 
the engraving stands on the line between the towns of Chester 
and Blandford ; the house on the left is in Blandford. This little 
village, consisting at present [1838] of about 15 dwelling-houses, a 
cotton factory, and some other buildings, is situated in the gorge 
through which the Westfield river passes. The route of the Wes- 
tern railroad is laid out through the village. Part of the moun- 
tainous elevation seen in the back ground is within the limits of 



280 GRANVILLE, 

Norwich. This place is 5 miles from the center of the town, 12 
from Westfield, 16 from Northampton, 21 from Springfield, and 
118 from Boston. The scenery along the Westfield river is wild 
and picturesque in many places. Population, 1,290. In 1837, 
there were 2 cotton mills; cotton spindles, 1,690; cotton goods 
manufactured, 22.5.000 yards; value, $22,07-5; males employed, 
13; females, 22. TJiere were 1,055 Saxony sheep. 2.495 merino, 
and 170 of other kinds of sheep ; average weight of fleece, 2 and 
three fourths pounds ; value of wool produced, i^5,817 38 ; capital 
invested, $11,347. There were 3 tanneries ; hides tanned, 33,500 ; 
value of leather tanned and curried, $10,900; the value of win- 
dow blinds manufactured, $15,000; males employed, 14 ; females, 
twenty-six. 



GRANVILLE. 

This town was incorporated in 1754, and included in its origi- 
nal limits the present town of Tolland. Rev. Moses Tuttle appears 
to have been the first minister. He was settled in 1747, and con- 
tinued pastor here about six years ; he was succeeded by Rev. 
Jedediah Smith, who was ordained in 1756. Mr. Smith Avas a 
man of uncommon piety, pleasantness, and affability. "After his 
dismission, in 1776, he preached his farewell sermon, and embarked 
at Middletown, Con., with his family, for Louisiana. In a long pas- 
sage up the Mississippi, being exposed to an intense heat and nox- 
ious atmosphere, he was attacked with a fever, and in a phrensy 
leaped into the river. Though rescued from the Avater, he soon 
after died, and Avas buried on the land. The riA'"er gradually 
encroached on the bank, till the grave Avas borne aAvay, and ' no 
man knoAveth of his sepulcher unto this day.' His family Avent 
on and founded a settlement in that remote country. The descend- 
ants comprise some of the most respectable citizens of Louisiana. 

The church Avas destitute of a pastor for 20 years, and the 

place Avas a moral Avaste. Divisions were prevalent in the church, 
and profaneness, horse-racing, and intemperance in the toAvn." 
The next settled minister after Mr. Smith Avas Rev. Timothy M. 
Cooley, D. D.. Avho Avas settled in 1796, and his labors have had a 
happy influence in the toAvn. The first minister of the Second 
church, or church in West Granville, Avas ReA^ Aaron J. Booge, 
Avho Avas installed in 1786, and dismissed in 1793. He Avas suc- 
ceeded by Rev. .Toel Baker, AA^ho Avas settled in 1797, and died in 
1833; his successor, Rev. Seth Chapin, continued pastor till 1835. 
He Avas succeeded by Rev. Henry Eddy. 

The principal village in this toAvn is in East Granville. It is 
situated on a very elevated hill, about 17 miles from Springfield. 
This is situated in a mountainous region, and agriculture is the 
principal busmess of the inhabitants. In 1837, pocket-books were, 
the principal articles manufactured in the tOAvn ; the value of theso 
Avas $6,240. Population, 1,439. The church in East Granville 



LONOMEADOW. 281 

organized from their own number a church to form a settlement in 
Granville, Ohio. This colony laid the foundation of one of the 
most respectable churches in Ohio, and now consists of about 400 
members. The church in West Granville likewise organized a 
church which settled in Charlestown, in the same state ; this is 
also in a flourishing state. 



HOLLAND. 

This town was formerly a part of Brimfield. It was incorpora- 
ted as a town in 1796. The Rev. Ezra Reeve, the first Congrega- 
tional minister, was settled here in 1765. He died in 1818, at the 
age of 85. The next minister settled here was Rev. Enoch Burt. 
James Sandford, who succeeded Mr. Burt, was installed here in 
1831. Besides the Congregational, there is a Baptist church in the 
place. In 1837 there was one cotton mill, having 1,024 spindles; 
it consumed 20,902 lbs. of cotton; 104,512 yards of cloth were 
manufactured, valued at $10,451 20 ; males employed, 12 ; females, 
17 ; capital invested, $15,000. Population, 495. Distance, 20 miles 
from Springfield, and 70 from Boston. 



LONGMEADOW. 

This place was originally a part of Springfield ; itr, Indian name 
was Masacksick. It was incorporated as a distinct precinct in 
1713, when there were a little less than 40 families. It was incor- 
porated as a town in 1783. "It is not known exactly at what pe- 
riod the settlement commenced in this town, but probably as ear- 
ly as 1644. Among the earliest settlers were Benjamin Cooley, 
George Colton, (known in the records by the name of quarter-mas- 
ter Colton,) and John Keep. These persons were the ancestors of 
all the families of their respective names in this part of the country. 
The original settlement in what is now Longmeadow began in 
the meadow near the bank of the river. In 1703 there was a pe- 
tition from the inhabitants to the town, that, on account of the 
danger which they were in from floods, and some other inconve- 
niences attending their situation, they might be permitted to move 
out of the general field, and build on the hill, about half a mile 
east of the river. This petition was granted, and the town voted 
to give them ' the land from Pecowsic brook to Enfield bounds, 
and from the hill eastward of Longmeadow, half a mile further 
eastward into the woods.' " 

The soil of Longmeadow is fertile, and the inhabitants are al- 
most exclusively devoted to agricultural pursuits. The principal 
village is pleasantly located near the east bank of Connecticut 
river. The following cut is a northern view of the first Congrega- 
tional church, and exhibits the characteristic scenery of this plea- 
38 



282 



LONGMEADOW. 




North citw oj Cu/ig/-6gaUo/ial Church, Loiignitudurc. 

sant village. The village is bnilt on one wide level street, which 
passes through the town, following the course of the Connecticut, 
on the first rise of ground above the meadows, which extend the 
whole breadth of the town from north to south. The distance 
from the street to the river is generally about one mile. Distance, 
4 miles south of Springfield, 22 north of Hartford, 97 south-wester- 
ly from Boston. There are 3 churches, 2 Congregational and 1 
Baptist. The Baptist and one of the Congregational churches are 
in the eastern part of the town, called East Longmeadow. An ex- 
tensive range of forest lands extend from north to south through 
the town, a little eastward of the main road. The western part of 
the township is generally level and free from stones. Popula- 
tion, 1,2.51. 

The first minister of the place was Rev. Stephen Williams, who 
was ordained here in 1716. He was a son of Rev. John Williams, 
of Deerfield, and was carried captive with his father to Canada. 
He served as chaplain in three campaigns, and received the de- 
gree of D. D. from Dartmouth college in 1773. He died in 1782, 
in the 90th year of his age, and BGth of his ministry. Dr. Wil- 
liams was succeeded by Rev. Richard Salter Storrs, who was 
settled in 1785. Mr. Storrs died in 1819. The next minister was 
Rev. Baxter Dickinson, who was ordained in 1823. The first 
settled Baptist minister in this town was Rev. George B. Atwell, 
who was ordained in 1822. The Baptist meeting-house is in the 
eastern part of the town. 

" On the 26th of March, [1676,] a number of people from 
Longmeadow, being on their way to attend public worship in 
Springfield, escorted by a party of cavalry, were attacked, and tAvo 
killed and several wounded. As the attack was made from the 
woods bordering the road, the escort afforded little protection ; tAV(» 
women, with their children, falling from their horses during the 
confusion, were seized by the Indians, and dragged into a swamp in 



LUDLOW. 283 

the vicinity. In the mean time the people in the van were safely 
convoyed to Springfield by the cavalry, who returned expedi- 
tiously to the place of attack; but the Indians had retired into the 
woods. The next day the captured women and children were 
found in the margin of the swamp, badly wounded by Indian 
hatchets, ^me of whom died after being conveyed to their places 
of residence." — Hoyfs Indian Wars, p. 125. 

The following inscriptions are copied from monuments in the 
ancient grave-yard : 

In memory of Rev. Stephen Williams, D. D., who was a prudent and laborious minis- 
ter, a sound and evangelical preacher, a pious and exemplary christian, a sincere and 
faithful friend, a tender and affectionate father and consort, and a real and disinterested 
lover of mankind ; departed this life with humble and cheerful hope of a better, June 
10th, 1782, in the 90 year of his age, and 66th of his ministry. 

Softly with fainting head he lay I His maker kissed his soul away, 

Upon his maker's breast ; | And laid his flesh to rest. 



Sacred to the memory of the Rev. Richard S. Storrs, pastor of the church in Long- 
meadow. He was born at Mansfield, Conn., Aug. 30th, 1763, graduated at Yale Col- 
lege in 1783, ordained Dec. 7, 1785, died Oct. 3, 1819. In the private relations of life 
he eminently illustrated the graces of the christian. He was distinguished for his ap- 
propriate, perspicuous, and affectionate exhibition of evangelical truth, for propriety, 
richness and fervor in social prayer, and for his instructive coversation and christian 
sympathy in pastoral duties. In testimony of their affectionate remembrance of his 
personal worth and their regard for his ability, zeal and usefulness as their christian 
pastor, his mourning congregation erect this monument. 

Religion, her almighty breath, I Amidst that calm of sweet repose, 

Rebuked the winds and waves of death ; | To Heaven his gentle spirit rose. 



In memory of Capt. Isaac Colton, who died Jan^- 23^. 1757, in his 57th year. 
Capt. I. Colton had a military genius, commanded a company at Louisbourg, in 1745. 
"Was respected & useful at home. Was a man of prayer. Isa. 31, 3. For behold the 
Lord doth take away the Captain. 



How art thou fallen in the midst of the battle ; O very pleasmit hast thou been. In 
memory of Lieutenant Nathaniel Burt, who was slain in the memorable battle of 
Lake George, Sept. 8th, 1755, when his Colonel and other brave officers fell, yet a sig- 
nal victory was obtained over the enemy. Mr. Nathaniel Burt was a deacon of this 
church, an exemplary christian, a man of Public Spirit, & a good soldier ; well be- 
loved at home, and in y« army. A concern for pure religion caused his going into y" 
military service. He died in his 45th year. 2 Chron. 35 and 25. And Jeremiah la- 
mented over Josiah. 

Mr. Nathaniel Burt, a respectable and worthy father of the town of Longmeadow, 
was born A. D. 1636, and died Sept. 29th, 1720. This monument is erected by the 
inhabitants of said town, as a token of gratitude for his donation of lands made by him 
to them for the support of the gospel, and public school. Isaiah 32, 8. The liberal de- 
viseth liberal things, and by liberal things he shall stand. 



LUDLOW 



This town was incorporated in 1774. The first Congregational 
minister settled here was Rev. Antipas Steward, who was or- 
dained in 1793. He resigned in 1803, and died in 1814, aged 80 
years. His successor, Rev. Ebenezer B. Wright, settled here in 



284 M O N S O N . 

1819. Mr. Wright resigned in 1835, and was succeeded the same 
year by Rev. David R. Austin. Besides the Congregational, there 
is now, in tlie central part of the town, a Methodist church. 

This is principally an agricultural town ; the greater part of the 
inhabitants live scattered about on their farms. There is, however, 
a flourishing little village on the Chicopee river, which forms the 
southern boundary of this town, dividing it from Wilbraham and 
Springfield. Jenks' cotton factories, two in number, are at this 
place. The village lies on both sides of the Chicopee. In 1837, 
there were in this town 2 cotton mills, having 10,000 spindles ; 
500,000 lbs. of cotton were consumed; 1,600,000 yards of cotton 
goods were manufactured, valued at $'160,000 ; males employed, 
88; females, 200; capital invested, ,^100,000. Population, 1,329. 
D-istance, 10 miles from Springfield, and 84 from Boston. 



M O N S N 



This town was originally a part of Brimfield. About one ninth 
of the proprietors of that town settled in this part of the township. 
The first house east of Springfield was erected more than 140 years 
ago within the present limits of this town. The name of the man 
who first planted himself here was Fellia. The general court 
granted him 200 acres of land, on condition that he would erect 
and keep a house of entertainment for travellers passing between 
Springfield and Brookfield. The man continued awhile, but soon 
returned to Springfield on account of alarm from the Indians. Al- 
though he did not entirely fulfil the conditions of the grant, yet he 
held and sold the land. It afterwards came into the possession of 
Governor Hutchinson's family. Of the above-mentioned proprie- 
tors who settled within the present limits of Monson, were Robert 
Olds, (as early as 1715,) Ezra and Samuel King, Benjamin Munn, 
John Keep, .Tohu Atchenson, Mark Ferry, Daniel Killam, Obadiah 
Cooley, and Samuel Kilborn. On petition to the general court, this 
part of Brimfield was incorporated as a district in the spring of 
1760. Previous to this, the name of Monson was given to it by 
Gov. Pownal. 

When the act of incorporation was obtained, there were only 49 
families in the limits of the district. In the month of August fol- 
lowing, the first district meeting was held, at which all necessary 
oflticers were chosen. They immediately proceeded to make pre- 
paration for the public worship of God. In 1762, about 2 years 
from the incorporation, land had been procured and a meeting- 
house erected. During this period they had preaching in private 
houses, by candidates. The first who supplied them was Simeon 
Strong, afterwards judge of the supreme court. Rev. Abishai Sa- 
bin was the first pastor, ordained in 1762. His relation to the 
church continued about 10 years, when he was dismissed- The 
second pastor was Rev. Jesse Ives, a native of Meriden, Con., and 



M O N SON, 



285 



graduate of Yale college in 1758. He was installed in 1773, and 
continued with the people till his death, in 1805. The present 
pastor, Rev. Alfred Ely, D. D., a native of West Springfield, was 
ordained in 1806. The amount of settlement and salary which the 
people offered Mr. Sabin is not known, though it is evident he had 
a settlement. Mr. Ives had a settlement of £100, and £65 and 30 
cords of wood as an annual salary ; and the present pastor $500. 
The first meeting-house was taken down in 1803, having stood 41 
years, and the same year the present one was built. There is no 
notice of the existence of any organized society of another denomi- 
nation till 1798, when " persons composing the first Baptist society 
were set ofi"." 




South-eastern view of Monson. 

The above is a representation of the centra part of Monson, as 
seen from the bridge, at the south-eastern extremity of the village. 
The academy is seen on the left, surmounted with a cupola ; the 
Congregational church is seen in the central part of the engraving ; 
the building standing northerly from the church, with a small 
tower, is the vestry. Monson Academy is well endowed, and is a 
very respectable institution. 

This town is about 8 miles in length, from N. to S., and about 6 
miles in breadth. A narrow vale, interspersed with some small 
gravelly hills, runs from south to north through the center, bounded 
on each side by ranges of hills of moderate height. Through 
this vale flows for a considerable distance a small stream, which 
flows into the Chicopee river on the north. On this brook, within 
about 1 mile of the center, are 4 factories, 2 cotton and 2 woollen. 
The public buildings are a Congregational meeting-house, a vestry, 
an academy building and laboratory in the center, a Baptist meet- 
ing-house on the west border, and a Methodist chapel about 2 miles 
south of the center. Distance, 13 miles E. from Springfield, and 
73 S. W. by W. of Boston. Population, 2,179. 

In 1837, there were in this town 3 cotton mills, 3,636 cotton spin- 
dles; 605,071 yards of cotton goods were manufactured, valued at 



286 MONTGOMERY. 

$67,500; males employed, 47; females, 73: capital invested, $39,000. 
There were two woollen mills and 5 sets of machinery ; wool 
consumed, 130,000 lbs. ; cloth manufactured, 170,000 yards; valued 
at $117,000; males employed, 43; females, 37; capital invested, 
$29,250. There were 2,712 merino, and 349 other kinds of sheep 
in the town ; value of wool produced Avas $4,892 ; value of boots 
and shoes manufactured, $5,600 ; value of spectacles manufactured, 
$7,060; straw braid, $2,100. 



MONTGOMERY. 

This town was incorporated in 1780. A Congregational church 
was organized here in 1797; it consisted at the time it was organ- 
ized of five male members. Rev. Seth Noble, the first pastor, was 
settled here in 1801, and resigned in 1806. He died in the state 
of Ohio, a few years since, whitlier he had removed. His succes- 
sor in the ministry was Rev. John H. Fowler, who was ordained 
in 1822 ; he died in 1829, aged 58. The next pastor was Rev. 
Solomon Edson, who was settled in 1832, and resigned in 1836. 
Rev. Caleb Knight, the next pastor, was installed the same year. 

This is a small agricultural town. Population, 497. Distance, 
12 miles from Springfield, 12 from Northampton, and 100 from 
Boston. In 1837, there were 1,189 merino and 279 other kinds of 
sheep ; the average weight of their fleece Avas tAVO and three fourths 
pounds ; value of avooI produced, $2,220 35. 



PALMER 



This place was originally settled by emigrants from the north of 
Ireland ; many of Avhose descendants remain in the place. The 
records of the church and those of the town are scanty and defec- 
tive. The town Avas incorporated in 1752. A church Avas probably 
organized here in 1730 or 1731, throe years after the toAvn Avas 
settled. Rev. .Tohn Harvey, Avho Avas ordained by the Londonder- 
ry presbytery, Avas settled here in 1734, and Avas dismissed in 1748. 
He was succeeded by Rev. Robert Burns, in 1753. Mr. Burns 
Avas succeeded by Rev. Moses Baldwin, Avho Avas installed in 1761 ; 
he resigned in ISll, and died in 1813, aged 81. His successors 
have been Rev. Simeon Colton, settled in 1811 ; Rev. Henry H. P. 
Sweet, in 1825 ; Rev. Joseph K. Ware, in 1827 : and Rev. Samuel 
Backus, installed in 1832. Till the settlement of Mr. Colton, this 
church Avas Scotch Presbyterian. 

This town is Avell situated for agriculture, betAveen the forks 
made by Ware river with the Chicopee on the south, and the 
SAvift river on the north. It is fast rising into importance as a 
manufacturing town. In the central part of the town there is a 



SOUTH WICK. 287 

little village of about a dozen dwelling-houses and a Congregational 
church. The village of Three Rivers is on the Chicopee, at the 
western extremity of the town, nearly three miles from the center; 
this is a factory village, consisting of about 20 dwelling-houses and 
a Baptist church. There is another village now erecting, about 
one mile from the center, called Thnrndike village. In each of 
these villages there is a large cotton mill. In 1837, there were 2 
cotton mills, 11.020 spindles; 1,020,000 5^ards of cotton goods man- 
ufactured, valued at $102,000: males employed, 100; females, 200. 
One woollen mill, with 2 sets of machinery ; 68,000 yards of cloth 
were manufactured, valued at $54,000. The value of boots and 
shoes manufactured was $8,956 ; value of scythes manufactured, 
$10,000; palm-leaf hats, $2,500. Population, 1,810. Distance, 
16 miles from Springfield, 23 from Northampton, 7 to Ware village, 
9 to Wilbraham, 31 to Worcester, and 71 from Boston. 



RUSSELL. 



This town was incorporated in 1792. It was formerly a part of 
Westfield, and Avas called the Neiv-addition. The first settlers in 
this town were two brothers by the name of Barber, and a Mr, 
Grey. They lived upon the road leading from Westfield to Bland- 
ford, by Sackett's, and up the mountain, then called Glasgow 
mountain. A Congregational church was organized here in 1800, 
by Rev. .Joseph Badger. The Congregationalists own a small well- 
finished meeting-house in connection with the Methodists. There 
is a small cotton mill in this town. Population, 475. Distance,. 
14 miles from Springfield and 100 from Boston. 



SOUTHWICK. 



This town was formerly a part of Westfield ; it was incorporated 
as a distinct town in 1779, Samuel Fowler appears to have been 
the first settler within the limits of this town. About 1734, he 
located himself in the north part, then called Poverty, so called 
probably from the lightness of the soil in this section of Southwick. 
A Congregational church was organized in this place in 1773; the 
first settled minister was ordained the same year. His successor, 
Rev. Isaac Clinton, was ordained in 1788. Rev. Dudley D. Rossiter, 
the next minister, was ordained in 1816, but preached but a very 
few times on account of ill health. Rev. Calvin Foote, his succes- 
sor, was ordained in 1820. Rev. Elbridge G. Howe was installed 
here in 1831, and Rev. Thomas Fletcher in 1838. The first meet- 
ing-house was erected about one mile south of the village ; it was 
burnt in 1823; a new one was erected in 1824. A Methodist 
Episcopal church was erected in 1824, in the south part of the 



288 S O U T H W I C K . 

town. A Baptist church was erected m the central village about 
1822. 

The village in the central part of the town consists of about 25 
dwelling-houses, 2 churches, 1 Congregational and 1 Baptist, and 
an academy. Mr. Richard Dickinson, who died in this town in 
1824, appropriated |^17,(300 in his will for the benefit of the schools. 
A sum not exceeding one half goes to the support of a grammar- 
school, and the remainder to the district schools. The interest 
only is appropriated. The grammar-school has been commenced, 
and is free to the youth of Southwick. This place is 11 miles from 
Springfield, 5 from Westfield, 6 from E. Granville, 22 from Harr- 
ford, Con., and 108 from Boston. Population, 1,291. In 1837, the 
value of powder manufactured in this place was ,^32,72.5 : hands 
employed, 13; capital invested $17,300; value of cigars manufac- 
tured, $6,350; hands employed, 10; capital invested, .f?l,000; value 
of whips manufactured, $5,400; value of whip-lashes, $3,850; males 
employed, 5 : females, 16 ; capital invested, $1,000. The New Ha- 
ven and Northampton canal passes through this town, and com- 
municates with several large ponds in the south-eastern section. 

It will be perceived, in all correct maps of Connecticut, that a 
tract of land, about two miles in length and breadth, on the west- 
ern boundary of this town, projects into what would seem ought 
to belong to Connecticut. This tract has been left to the jurisdic- 
tion of Massachusetts since the year 1800. It appears that the 
bounds of Springfield and Windsor were not defined with much 
accuracy in this section : the bounds at the north-v/est point of the 
projection, however, appear to have been clearly defined. The 
western bounds of Springfield, in which part of Sutfield was in- 
cluded, were supposed, but erroneously, to extend to this point. A 
Mr. Moore, living on the tract in question, was knowing to the 
facts in the case. Having received a warning to a militia training, 
he refused to appear, denying that he was within the jurisdiction 
of Connecticut. The case was carried to the general assembly 
of Connecticut, who, upon an examination of the facts in the case, 
were obliged to leave this tract to the jurisdiction of Massachu- 
setts. 

" The south line of Massachusetts, according to charter, runs west from a point three 
miles south of the most southerly branch of Charles river, and every part of it ; 
and the north line of Connecticut is the south line of Massachusetts. When Mr. Pyn- 
chon settled Springfield, and the first plantations were made in Connecticut, in 1635, 
it was not known whether the territory would fall within the limits of Massachusetts 
or not. But Mr. Pynchon at first considered himself as belonging to the jurisdiction 
of the Connecticut plantations. In Ui42, Massachusetts employed two surveyors, 
Woodward and Saffery, to run the line between the colonies. These pretended to a.s- 
certain the south line on Charles river, and then, sailing round and going up the Con- 
necticut, they attempted to fix the line there, in the same latitude But either through 
inattention or the use of bad instruments, they determined the line to fall in AVindsor, 
many miles south of the true line. Connecticut was dissatisfied with the determination 
of Woodward and Saffery, and made repeated proposals to Massachusetts for a mutual 
adjustment of the controversy, which were ineffectual. In 1694, a committee appoint- 
ed by Connecticut run the line, and found the former survey very erroneous. In this 
situation, the inhabitants of SufReld and Enfield, who settled under the claims and 
jurisdiction of Massachusetts, continued to encroach upon Windsor and Simsbury, 
which excited warm animosities. In the year 1700, further attempts were made tc 



SPEINGFIELD. 289 

procure an amicable settlement of the dispute ; the line was run hy commissioners ot 
both colonies, in 1702, and found to fall far north of the former line ; but Massachusetts 
disagreed to their report. In 1708, Connecticut appointed commissioners with full 
powers to run the line, and establish the boundary ; and resolved, that imless Massa- 
chusetts would unUe to complete the business, they would apply to the crown. Mas- 
sachusetts did not agree at once to the proposal of Connecticut ; but in 1713, commis- 
sioners were appointed on the part of both colonies, who came to an agreement on the 
13th of July. On rnnning the Une it was found to fall north of Enfield, Suffield, and 
Woodstock, which of course came within the jurisdiction of Connecticut. As an equi- 
valent for the land which had been taken from Connecticut by encroachments, Massa- 
chusetts granted a tract of land in the western part of that colony, which, in 1716, was 
sold for two thousand two hundred and sevcnty-lbur dollars, which sum was applied to 
the use of Yale college. This agreement, however, was not considered as conclusive 
and satisfactory ; nor was the boundary between the two states definitely settled till 
May, 1804."* 

The following inscriptions are from monuments in the grave- 
yard in this place : 

In memory of the Rev. Abel Forward. His talents & learning were great. Formed 
to benefit & instruct mankind, he vvas a pulpit orator, A pious &: benevolent divine, a 
wise and prudent councillor & skilful Guide, & believing & teaching the Religion of 
Jesus, died in faith & hope, Jan>'- y<= 15"'> 1786, in y^ 38 year of his age and 13"> of his 
ministry. 

Flere et meminiffe relict um est. 



In memory of Mrs. Keturah, wife of y Rev<i- Abel Forward, who died Jan. 16"». ia 
her 23=1 year, a sincere chi-istian. 

How lov'd, how valu'd once, avails thee not, 
To whom related, or by whom begot ; 
A heap of Dust alone remains of thee, 
Tis all thou art ! & all the proud shall be. 
Grace was in all her steps, Heaven in her Eye, 
In every gesture dignity & love. 

Sunt Lacrymas rerum et mentum mortalia targunt. 

Keturah Sophia, daughter of the Rev. Abel & Mrs. Keturah Forward, died Apr. IS""' 
1775, aged 3 months. 

welcome tears, a tribute due, to mother & daughter too, 
"Whose ashes lie mingled as one, beneath the limits of this stone. 

Pulsanti aperietur. Life how short, Eternity how long ! 



In memory of Isaac Coit, Esq., an eminent physician, who died 25''' April, 1813, 
aged 58. 

Reflection long shall hover o'er his Urn, 
And faithful friendship boast the power to mourn ; 
Peace to his shade ! while truth shall paint the rest. 
Lamented most by those who knew him best. 



SPRINGFIELD. 

William Pynchon, Esq. may be considered as the father of this 
town. He was one of the patentees in the colony charter, and was 
appointed a magistrate and assistant in 1629, in England, when the 
governor and officers were appointed. He came from England 

♦Webster's History of United States. 



290 SPRINGFIELD. 

With Governor Winthrop, and began the settlement of Roxbury in 
1630. In May, 1635, Mr. Pynchon and the inhabitants of Roxbury 
had the leave of the general court to remove to any place they 
should think proper, provided that they continued under the juris- 
diction of Massachusetts, and would not prejudice any other plan- 
tation. The fertility of the land upon Connecticut river having 
become known, Mr. Pynchon, Henry Smith, Jehu Burr, and proba- 
bly some others, came to this place in 1635, called Agawam, and 
began to build a house on the west side of the river, on the Aga- 
wam, in the meadow, called from that fact House-meadow. The 
Indians who were friendly informed them that the house would be 
exposed to the flood ; they accordingly abandoned it, and built 
another house on the east side of the river, probably on the lot 
afterwards owned by Mr. Pynchon, and still possessed by his de- 
scendants. It is supposed that they returned to Roxbury in the 
fall. In the spring of the next year, (1636,) Mr. Pynchon, with a 
number of other persons with their families, removed from Roxbury 
and came to this place. The settlers made an agreement, the ori- 
ginal of which is preserved in the town records, consisting of fifteen 
articles. The first provides for the settlement of a minister ; the 
second limits the number of families to forty, and not to exceed 
fifty. The other articles provide for the rule and mode of division, 
and defraying the expenses of the settlement. The agreement was 
subscribed by only eight persons, though it appears that twelve were 
concerned. Those who subscribed were William Pynchon, Mat- 
thew Mitchell, Henry Smith, .Jehu Burr, William Blake, Edmund 
Wood, Thomas Ufford, and .Tolm Cabell. .Tehu Burr and Thomas 
Ulford made their marks. The other four who were united with 
them were Thomas Woodford, John Reader, Samuel Butterfield, 
and James Wood. 

In making the settlement, the most general course was to " allow 
each settler a house-lot on the west side of what is now Main street, 
8 rods wide from the street to the river ; a like width in the mea- 
dow, in front of his house, to the foot of the hill ; and a wood-lot 
of the same breadth, extending at first eighty, and afterwards to 
an hundred rods, nearly to the top of the hill ; and, when practi- 
cable, an allotment in the interval on the west side of the river, of 
the same width, as near as might be directly against his lot." The 
first settlers here, as well as those at Hartford, Windsor, and Weth- 
ersfield in Connecticut, came on under the license and the pro- 
fessed authority and protection of Massachusetts, but they were 
at such a distance from the towns on the Bay as to be obliged, 
principally, to rely on themselves. Agawam was, at first, united 
with the other towns below on the river. It appears by the Con- 
necticut records that at a court holden at Hartford, Nov. 1636, Mr. 
Pynchon was present with the other magistrates. It appears that 
in 1637 Agawam was assessed with the towns in Connecticut, 
to furnish its quota of troops, and pay a portion of the expense of 
the Pequot war. This place, however, did not long continue 
united with Connecticut. On February 14, 1638, the inhabitants, 



SP BIN GFI ELD 



291 



believing themselves to be within the jurisdiction of Massachusetts, 
came into a voluntary agreement, and appointed Mr. Pynchon a 
magistrate with extensive powers, and directed the proper course 
of proceeding, till they should receive orders from Massachusetts. 

In 1640, by a vote of the town, its name was changed from Aga- 
wam to Springfield. Hubbard, in his General History, states that 
the name was given out of regard to Mr. Pynchon, who had his 
mansion in a town of that name, near Chelmsford, in Essex, before 
he came to this country. " Whatever be the origin, it is peculiarly 
appropriate. It is very rare that a place so abundantly watered 
with rivers, brooks, streams, and springs can be found." Much 
uncertainty has existed with regard to the precise date of the in- 
corporation of the town. There is good reason to believe, however, 
that it was in 1641. The limits of the town, by various purchases 
from the natives and grants from the legislature, became very ex- 
tensive, embracing a tract nearly twenty-five miles square. This 
territory included the towns of Westfield, Suffield, and a great part 
of Southwick, and the whole of West Springfield, on the west side 
of the river, and the towns of Springfield, Enfield, Somers, Wil- 
braham, Ludlow, and Longmeadow, on the east side. Extensive 
as this territory was, the most of it was obtained by fair purchase 
from the Indians. 

The following is a list of the inhabitants of Springfield from 
1636 to 1664. 



William Pynchon, 
Henry Smith, 
William Blake, 
Edmund Wood, 
Thomas Ufford, 
John Cabel, 
Matthew Mitchell, 
Samuel Butterfield, 
James Wood, 
John Header, 
Thomas Woodford, 
John Seale, 
Richard Everitt, 
Thomas Horton, 
Rev. George Moxon, 
Thomas Mirrick, 
John Leonard, 
Robert Ashley, 
John AVoodcock, 
John AUin, 
John Burt, 
Henry Gregory, 
Samuel Hubbard, 
Elizur Holyoke, 
William Warriner, 
Henry Burt, 



Rowland Stebbins, 
Thomas Stebbins, 
Samuel Wright, 
Richard Sikes, 
John Deeble, 
Samuel Chapin, 
Morgan Johns, 
Thomas Cooper, 
James Bridgman, 
Alexander Edwards 
John Dobie, 
Roger Pritchard 
Francis Ball, 
John Harmon, 
William Vaughan, 
William Jess, 
Rliles Morgan, 
Abraham Blundon, 
Francis Pepper, 
John Burrhall, 
Benjamin Cooley, 
John Matthews, 
George Colton, 
Joseph Parsons, 
John Clarke, 
James Osborne, 



Thomas Rieve, 
Wid. Margaret Bliss, 
Nathaniel Bliss, 
Thomas Tomson, 
Richard Exell, 
William Branch, 
Griffith Jones, 
Reice Bedortha, 
Hugh Parsons, 
John Lombard, 
John Scarlet, 
George Langton, 
Lawrence Bliss, 
Samuel Bliss, 
John Bliss, 
Anthony Dorchester, 
John Lamb, 
Samuel Marshfield, 
John Dumbleton, 
Jonathan Taylor, 
Rowland Thomas, 
Thomas Miller, 
Benjamin Parsons, 
Obadiah Miller, 
Abel Wright, 
Hugh Dudley, 



William Brooks, 
Simon Beamon, 
Samuel Terry, 
John Lamb, 
Benjamin Mun, 
John Stewart, 
Thomas Bancroft, 
Thomas Noble, 
Richard Maund, 
Thomas Gilbert, 
Simon Sacket, 
Richard Fellowes, 
Rev. Peletiah Glover, 
Tahan Grant, 
Nathaniel Ely, 
Samuel Ely, 
John Keep, 
Edward Foster, 
Thomas Sewall, 
Thomas Day, 
John Riley, 
John Henryson, 
William Hunter, 
John Scott. 



The town increaced rapidly and extended m every direction, till 
an event took place, which at tbe first seemed calculated to check 
it. Mr. Pynchon, in 1650, fell under the censure of the general 
court for having published a work entitled " The Meritorious Price 
of Man's Redemption," in opposition to the general opinions respect- 



292 



SPRINGFIELD. 



ing the nature of the atonement. He was left out of the magis- 
tracy, and cited to appear before the court, and laid under heavy 
bonds. The next year Mr. Pynchon. in a letter addressed to the 
general court, retracted his sentiments. The censure of him was 
suspended, but he was so much dissatisfied that he went to England, 
and Mr. Moxon with him. Whether he approved of Mr. Pyn- 
chon's book is not known. Mr. Pynchon did not take his family, 
but Mr. Moxon did. Neither of them ever returned. Mr. Pynchon 
was a man of distinction, of a pious disposition of mind, and of 
respectable talents ; and appears to have had the confidence of 
the town, while he remained. His son-in-law Henry Smith, one 
of the principal men in Springfield, also removed with his family 
to England. The absence of Mr. Pynchon was made up in his son 
John Pynchon, who remained here. " He was a man of uncommon 
talents, and admirably adapted to his situation." Deacon Samuel 
Chapin and Elizur Holyoke were leading men in the town. 




Pynchon House, Springfield, erected about 1660. 

For forty years after the commencement of the settlement, the in- 
habitants lived in peace with the Indians. Occasionally complaints 
were made of the misconduct of the Indians. They were, when 
complaints were substantiated, obliged to do right by their neigh 
bors. On the other hand, it is evident, that whenever any of the 
Indians were wronged by the whites, they had speedy justice done 
them. But when Philip's war broke out, in June, 1675, there was 
a general alarm. What fortified places there were in the town, 
does not certainly appear. The old brick house, built by John 
Pynchon, Esq., before the year 1660, was used as a fort. The 
above engraving is copied from a drawing of this house as it ap- 
peared in 17S4. It was taken down a few years since. 

There is reason to believe that there was one or two more forts 
soutli of the meeting-house. It has also been said that the south 
part of tbe town was palisadoed. The Indians who were this side 
of the river had their principal settlement on Long Hill, where they 
had a fort. During the night of the 3d or 4th of October, three 



SPRINGFIELD. 293 

hundred of Philip's warriors were received into the fort and there 
concealed by the Springfield Indians. Toto^ a Windsor Indian, was 
informed of a plot to bnrn the town and massacre the inhabitants. 
This he communicated to the people of Windsor, who, without 
delay, sent an express to Springfield to give the alarm. This at 
first occasioned great consternation ; and the people betook them- 
selves to the forts, and took such measures for security as they 
could upon the emergency. The Springfield Indians, however, 
appeared as usual, professed cordial friendship, and in a great de- 
gree quieted the fears and alarms of the English. The Rev. Mr. 
Glover, who with others had retired to the fort, and had removed 
his library and some of his valuable effects to Mr. Pynchon's, upon 
finding all to be quiet, and nothing to be heard or seen of an enemy, 
moved back his library to his own house. The Indians lay per- 
fectly still and concealed. Some of the English, however, were 
not satisfied; and in the morning of October 5th, LieiUenant Tho- 
mas Cooper and Thomas Miller went out as scouts, to examine and 
explore the fort and Indian settlement. While advancing towards 
it, they were both fired upon and killed. Mr. Cooper, being very 
athletic and vigorous, got into one of the forts before he expired. 
An assault upon the town immediately followed. Three men and 
one woman were killed, including the two above named. About 
thirty dwelling-houses and twenty-five barns were destroyed. The 
mills and house of correction, or jail, were also burnt ; but the old 
meeting-house was preserved. The Indians retreated before they 
had completed the work of destruction. At the time of the attack 
Major Pynchon and Capt. Appleton were at Hadley; they hurried 
on with the utmost speed to the relief of Springfield ; but the In- 
dians had withdrawn with their plunder before they arrived. The 
following is extracted from Capt. Appleton's official account of the 
attack, &c., dated Oct. 12, 1675. He was at Hadley when he wrote. 

" As to the state of poor desolate Springfield, to whose relief we came (though with a 
march that had put our men into a most violent sweat, and was more than they could 
well bear,) too late. Their condition is indeed most afflicted, there being about 33 
houses and 25 barns burnt, and about fifteen houses left unhiirnt. The people are full 
of fear, and staggering in their thoughts as to their keeping or leaving of the place. 
They whose houses and provisions are consumed incline to leave the place, as think- 
ing they can better labor for a living in places of less danger, than where they now 
are. Hence they seem un\villing to stay, except they might freely share in the corn 
and provision wliich is remaining and preserved by the sword. I cannot but think it 
conducive to the public, and for ought I see to the private interest, that the place 
should be kept ; there being corn and provision enough and to spare, for the suste- 
nance of the persons, whose number is considerable, and cannot be maintained else- 
where M'ithout more than almost any place can afibrd to their relief. The worth of 
the place is also considerable, and the holding of it will give encouragement and help 
to others, and the quitting of it great discouragement and hazard of our passage from 
one place to another, it being so great distance from Hadley to any other town on this 
side of the river. I have in regard of the present distress of the poor people adven- 
tured to leave Capt. Sill there to be ordered by the honored major till further order. 

In the account of Springfield houses, we only presented the number of them 

on the east side of the river and that in the town plat, for in all, on the west side 
and in the outskirts on the east side, there are about sixty houses standing and much 
corn in and about them." [In another letter, dated Oct. 17, 1675, Capt. Appleton 
says,] "By a letter received irom Major Pynchon, I am informed of an old Indian 
squaw taken at Springfield, who tells that the Indians who burnt that town lodged 
about six miles of the town. Some men went forth, found twenty-four fires, and some 



294 



SPRINGFIELD, 



plunder. She saith there came of the enemy 270, that the enemy are in all about 600. 
The place where they keep is at Coassiit, as it is supposed, about 56 miles above 
Hadley." 

Springfield is the shire town for Hampden county, and one of 
the most important inland towns in New England, being the 
center of a large inland and river commerce, and is also the site 
of the largest armory in the United States. A considerable part of 
the village is on a single street, two miles in length. There is a 
court-house, jail, 2 banks, (the Springfield and Chicopee Banks,) 
several printing-olfices, and 6 churches, 3 Congregational, 1 of 
which is Unitarian. 1 Episcopal, 1 Methodist, and 1 Baptist. There 
are many elegant private residences in this place, particularly on 
the elevated ground which rises eastward from the court-house. 
Distance, 17 miles from Northampton, 48 from Worcester, 27 from 
Hartford, Con., 87 from Boston, and 363 from Washington. 




Western view of the Armory Buildings, Springfield. 

The principal U. S. Armory buildings are situated on the ele- 
vated table land eastward of the main village, called •" the Hill." 
From the village, on the main street, there is a gradual ascent to 
the summit of the hill, which is flanked on the north and south by 
a ravine. Most of the buildings connected with the armory, such 
as the arsenals or store-houses for the preservation of arms, the 
workshops, houses of the superintendents, &c., are situated on, and 
around an area of several acres. Some of these buildings are 
represented in the engraving; those on the right are arsenals. The 
assessors of Springfield, in 1837, made the following return relative 
to the U. S. Armory, viz. : — " Public lands and buildings, valued 
at $210,000; machinery, $.50,000; one hundred and seventy thou- 
sand muskets on hand, $2,040,000 ; muskets manufactured during 
the year ending April 1st, 1837, fourteen thousand, $154,000; ord- 
nance and stock on hand, $80,000; two hundred and sixty men 
employed." 



SPRINGFIELD. 



295 



«* During the revolutionary war, the town did not very much increase. It ffelt, 
in common with the country in general, the pressure of the struggle for indepen- 
dence. But in that period, a foundation was laid for much of its subsequent in- 
crease and present prosperity. In the time of the war, this was a recruiting post and 
a rendezvous for soldiers. Being centrally situated, easy of access, and at the same 
limp so far inland as to be out of the reach of sudden invasions of the enemy, it was 
early in the war fixed upon as a suitable place for making and repairing the variou.s 
munitions of war, and a depot for military stores. At first, the whole was confined to 
Main street. The various artificers employed, had their shops where they could find 
a convenient place, and resided themselves in that part of the town. The laboratory 
for cartridges, and for the various fire-works manufactured on such occasions, was in 
the barn then owned by Ebenezer Stebbiiis, on the place now owned by Dr. Kings- 
bury, south of Festus Stebbins'. After two or three years, the public works were 
removed on to the hill, where they now are. This was done gradually, in the years 
1778 and 1779, as accommodations could be found. At first, with the exception of 
the powder magazine, the whole of the pubUc buildings were placed upon a square of 
ten acres, on the land appropriated by the town for a trainftig field. A few cannon 
were cast here during that war, but no small-arms were manufactured till after 
the peace of 1783. At the close of the war, the workmen employed were discharged, 
and the arsenals, magazine and shops, were left in the charge of a store-keeper. 

" When the object of making arms was under consideration of the national govern- 
ment, in the year 1794, the convenience of the place, and the arsenals, magazines, and 
shops already here, were a sufficient inducement to establish the national armory 
here. This was done. At different periods since that time, lands have been pur- 
chased, and erections made, for the public accommodation. This establishment has, 
without question, been one great source of the prosperity of the town." — Bliss' Hist. 
Address. 182>^. 




Suuth entrance of Chicopee Village, Springfield. 

The above is a view taken at the south entrance of Chicopee 
village, upon 'the Springtield road. A part only of the village is 
seen. The forest trees which are seen on each side of the road, 
stand in the position in which they originally grew ; the novelty 
and beauty of the scene arrests the attention of the traveller, and 
to the lover of nature, this irregularity is far more pleasing and 
attractive than any artificial arrangement. By far the greater 
part of the village is on the southern side of the Chicopee. The 
elevation seen in the extreme distance is Motuit Tom, on the west- 
ern side of Connecticut river. This village is estimated to contain 
nearly two thousand inhabitants. There are four cotton mills, run- 

40 



296 



SPRINGFIELD 



ning 20,000 spindles. There is also an establishment for the manu- 
facture of machinery, saws, &c. This village is 4| miles from 
Springfield, and 87 from Boston, 




Nurtit view of Cabotville, Springfield. 

The above is a northern view of the central part of Cabotville, 
four miles from Springfield. The drawing from which t!ie above 
was engraved, was taken but a few feet from the road, on the side 
of the elevated heights which rise in some places almost perpen- 
dicularly from the road on the northern bank of the Chicopee. The 
village is built on the south bank of the Chicopee river, which is 
seen passing over its rocky bed in the engraving. This flourish- 
ing village is of quite recent origin. It was named from the Hon. 
George Cabot. It is estimated that at this time there are more than 
2,000 inhabitants in this village. There are two churches, 1 Con- 
gregational, 1 Universalist, and a Baptist church now (1838) erect- 
ing. 

The following statements respecting the manufacturing business 
done in this town are from the Statistical Tables, published by the 
state in 1837. " Cotton mills, 7; cotton spindles, 35,000; cotton 
consumed, 3.49;">.000 lbs. ; cotton goods manufactured. 11,062,000 
yards; value of the same, $1,089,500; males employed, 330; fe- 
males, 1,300; capital invested, $1,400,000." The following is a 
list of the articles manufactured, their value, and the number of 
hands employed. 



Articles. 


Vahte. Hands 


employed. 


Articles. Value. Hands 


'.mpli 


Boots and Shoes, 


$16,000, 


56 


Hard-ware, $11,000, 


11 


Leather, 


10,200, 


7 


Cards, 40,000, 


19 


Hats, 


4,800, 


7 


Joiners' Tools, 12,000, 


19 


Paper, 


200,000, 


225 


Paper-machinery, 12,000, 


10 


Iron Castings 


43,800, 


30 


Shuttle & Bobbin, 4,500, 


b 


Cutlery, 


40,000, 


60 


Rifles, 18,000, 


18 


Chairs, &c., 


16,000, 


28 


Stoves, 12,000, 


b 


Ploughs, 


1,300, 


2 


Machinery, 60,000, 


80 


Tin-ware, 


15,000, 


14 


Swords, &c., 50,000, 


'6b 



SPRINGFIELD. 297 

Besides the above, there were five steamboats built in five years 
preceding 1837, valued at $18,000. There is also an establishment 
for the manufacture of brass cannon, employing 2.5 hands, lately 
commenced, which it is estimated will manufacture cannon to the 
amount of $.50,000 annually. 

In 1810, the population of this town was 2,767; in 1820, it was 
3,914; in 1830, it was 6,784; in 1837, it was 9,234. 

In Shays' insurrection, in 1786, the judicial courts being ad- 
journed by the legislature to sit at Springfield on the 26th of 
December, Shays, with about 300 malcontents, marched into this 
town to oppose the administration of justice, and took possession 
of the court-house, and prevented the court from proceeding to 
business. In January, 1787, the movements of the insurgents were 
such, that the governor and council determined to raise a force of 
4,400 men in order to put them down. Two thousand men of this 
force were ordered to rendezvous in the vicinity of Boston on the 
19th of January, and Maj. Gen. Lincoln, of Hingham, was en- 
trusted with the command. 

" Before the troops under Gen. Lincoln marched from Roxbury, Gen. Shepard had 
been ordered to lake possession of the post at Springfield. He soon collected 900 men, 
and afterwards 200 more, the continental arsenal furnishing Ihem with a sufficient 
number of field-pieces, and such equipments as were wanted. It became an object 
with the insurgents to gain this post, if possible, before the arrival of Lincoln's army. 
Their movements, therefore, were towards West Springfield on the one side, where 
about 400 men were collected under the command of Luke Day ; and towards the 
Boston road on the other, where 1100 more were headed by Shays himself. Besides 
these, a party of about 400 from the county of Berkshire, under the command of Eli 
Parsons, were stationed in the north parish of Springfield. Shays proposed to attack 
the post on the 25th of January, and wrote to Day on the 24th to co-operate with him. 
In a letter which was intercepted by Gen. Shepard, Day replied that he could not as- 
sist him on the 25th, but would the day after. On the 25th, however. Shays, con- 
fident of his aid, about 4 o'clock in the afternoon, approached the arsenal where the 
militia were posted, with his troops in open column. Gen. Shepard sent several times 
to know the intention of the enemy, ami to warn them of their danger ; and received 
for answer, in substance, that they would have the barracks ; and they immediately 
marched onwards to within 250 yards of the arsenal. Another message was sent, in- 
forming them that the militia were posted there by order of the governor and of con- 
gress, and that if they approached any nearer they would be fired upon. One of their 
leaders replied, ^That is all we want ;' and they immediately advanced one hundred 
yards. Gen. Shepard was now compelled to fire ; but, in hope of intimidating them, 
ordered the two first shot to be directed over their heads, which, instead of retarding, 
quickened their approach ; and the artillery was at last pointed at the center of their 
column, which produced its eflTect. A cry of murder was raised in the rear of the insur- 
gents ; their whole body was thrown into the greatest confusion, and, in spile of all the 
efforts of Shays to form them, the truops retreated precipitately about ten miles to Lud- 
low, leaving three of their men dead on the field and one wounded. Had Gen. Shep- 
ard been disposed to pursue, he might easily have cut many of them in pieces. But 
the object was not to destroy them, but to bring them to consideration and amendment. 

" Notwithstanding this retreat, there was serious apprehension of another attack from 
the insurgents ; for Day was now on the west side of Connecticut river with his men, 
and Parsons at Chicopee, whither the party of Shays repaired (after losing 200 men 
by desertion) on the 26th. This apprehension was allayed the next day, at noon, by 
the arrival of Lincohi's army." 

After the county of Hampshire was formed, in 1662, a part of 
the county courts were held in Springfield ; this continued to be 
the case till 1793, when they were all removed to Northampton. 
It was supposed that this would have an injurious effect upon the 



298 TOLLAND. 

place. The armory was established here the next year, and which 
undoubtedly contributed to prevent any injurious effects from being 
apparent. Upon the organization of Hampden county, Springfield 
again became a shire town, and the courts were re-established 
here in 1S13. 

The following inscriptions were copied from monuments in the 
ancient grave-yard in this place : 

Here lyeth the body of Mart, the wife of Elizvr Holyoke, who died October 
26, 1657. 

Shee y'- lyes here was while she stood 
A very glory of womanhood ; 
Even here was sowne most pretious dvst, 
Which surely shall rise with the jvst. 



Here lyeth the body of lohn Glover, son of M'- Pelatiah Glover, who died y° 14th 
of lanuary, 1664. 

My body sleepes, my sovle hath sviet rest 
In armes of God, in Christ, who makes me blest •, 
The tyme drawes on apace when God the Sonne 
To see his face shall both vnite in one. 



Here lies interr'd the body of Mr. John Mallefuild, a French gentleman, who, pass- 
ing through the town of Sprmgfield, dying, bequeathed all his estate to the poor of this 
town. He died Nov. 26, 1711. Psal. 41, 1. Blessed is he that considereth the poor. 



In memory of the Rev. Robert Breck, A. fll., late pastor of the church of Christ in this 
place, who died on the 23d day of April, A. D. 1784, in the 71st year of his age, &c ia 
the 49th of his ministry. — This monument is erected by his affectionate and grateful 
parishioners, in addition to that in their breasts, to perpetuate the remembrance of his 
singular worth & long continued labors among them in the service of their souls. 

He taught us how to live, & Oh ! too high 
A price for knowledge ! taught us how to die. 



TOLLAND. 



This town was incorporated in 1810 ; it was taken from Gran- 
ville and Sandisfield, and what was formerly called Southfield. 
The Congregational church in this town was organized in 1797, 
and consisted of 70 members. The Rev. Roger Harrison was 
ordained here in 1798, and resigned in 1822. He was succeeded 
by Rev. Bennet F. Northrop in 1827, who resigned the next year. 
The celebrated missionary, Gordon Hall, was a native of this 
town. 

This township is on elevated land, which is adapted for grazing. 
Considerable quantities of butter and cheese are produced. It is 
watered by Farmington river, the western boundary of the town, 
which is here a beautiful and lively stream. In 1837 the value of 
shovels, spades, forks or hoes manufactured here was $3,500. 
Population, 570. Distance, 20 miles from Springfield, and 110 
from Boston. 



WESTFIBLD. 299 

WALES 

This town was formerly called South Brimfield. It received its 
name from James Wales, Esq., one of the principal men of the 
town. About 30 years since the population was divided between 
the Baptists, Universalists, and Congregationalists. A short time 
previously, the three denominations united in building a meeting- 
house, each to occupy it according to the amount of taxes paid by 
each. Rev. Mr. Coddington was the first Baptist minister ; the Rev. 
Mr. Eveleth was the next pastor. A Congregational church was or- 
ganized here in 1S19, which consisted of about 12 persons ; it is now 
(1838) about extinct. The Methodists have a meeting-house in 
the central part of the town. 

The village in the center of the town consists of about 25 or 30 
dwelling-houses and two churches. It is situated at the northern 
extremity of a pond, about three fourths of a mile in length and 
about half a mile in breadth. In 1837 there was a woollen mill, 
with 2 sets of machinery ; 36,000 yards of cloth were manufactured, 
valued at $32,400. The value of boots and shoes manufactured 
(boots 6,230, shoes 9,053 pairs) was $27,743 ; males employed, 42 ; 
females, 5. The value of palm-leaf hats manufactured was $1,500. 
Population, 738. Distance, about 20 miles from Springfield, and 
67 from Boston. 



WESTFIELD. 



The Indian iiame of Westfield was Warronoco, (or Kee,) and 
was incorporated in 1669, Edward Tyng being magistrate of the 
Massachusetts colony. It was first proposed to call it Streamiield, 
because situated between two streams, but upon further conside- 
ration it was called Westfield, because it was nearly wert from 
Boston, the metropolis of the colony, and also the most westerly 
plantation in New England. It is difficult to determine in what 
precise year the first permanent settlement was made in tliis town, 
though probably between 1658 and 1650. At a town meeting held 
in Springfield, Dec, 1658, a tract of land in Warrono'io was 
granted to Thomas Cooper, on condition he commenced improve- 
ments upon said land in twelve months and continued them five 
years. This tract was situated over West river, probably not far 
from the county bridge. A similar grant was made in 1660 to 
Dea. S. Chapman, of land adjoining Cooper's. In 1661, a grant 
was made to Capt. Pynchon, Robert Ashley, and George Colton, 
of a tract of upland meadow, probably lying between the rivers. 
It hence appears that Warronoco belonged to Springfield. It was 
included in the original grant made to the first settlers of that town 
by the king of England. It was first settled by families from 
Springfield. The following is among the early records of that 
town: "Feb. 7, 1664. At a general town meeting, Capt. Pynchon, 
Major Holyoke, and Messrs. Ely, Colton, and Cooley, were chosen 
a standing committee, to have the sole power to order matters con- 



300 WESTFIELD. 

cerning Warronoco, both for admittance of inhabitants and to 
grant lands, or for any other business that may concern that place 
and conduce to its becoming a town of itself." Some to whom grants 
of land were made, forfeited their lands by a non-compliance with 
the conditions of the grantors. Lands were confirmed to those who 
continued their improvements five years. According to the re- 
cords, the following persons had confirmed titles : George and Isaac 
Phelps, Capt. Cook. Mr. Cornish, Thomas Dewey, J. TNoble, David 
Ashley, John Holyoke, John Ponder, and Johnlngersoll. These men 
lived near the confluence of Great and Little rivers. They took 
up their residence here about 1(366, as appears from the following 
facts. Meetings were first held here in 1667 on the Sabbath. The 
first English child born here was Benj. Saxton, who died in 1754, 
aged 88 years, and was therefore born in 1666. 

Mention is made of the establishment of a trading-house at the 
confluence of the two rivers, by three young men, some years pre- 
vious to a permanent settlement. They spent one summer here, 
and were never heard of afterward. It was supposed that they 
were cut olf by the Indians. Each inhabitant owned a separate 
tract of land, but seem at first to have lived to a certain extent in 
common. They had a fort near the junction of the rivers, as sup- 
posed, a few rods west of Harrison's tavern. In this they lodged 
every night, and fled to it by day in case of alarm. It seems from 
the records that a tract of land two miles in circuit about the fort 
was strongly enclosed. Within this enclosure they had all their 
dwellings. Houses were occupied as forts in different parts of the 
town until after the French war in 1757. Warronoco was at first 
nine miles long and three wide ; additions were made to it until it 
mcluded what is now Westfield, Southwick, and Russell. 

Westfield is situated eight miles west of Connecticut river, sepa- 
rated from it by West Springfield. Little river comes in from the 
west, and Westfield river from the north-west ; they unite half a 
mile east of the meeting-house. The central part of the town 
has the appearance of having once been a lake, and by geologists 
acquainted with the country is supposed to have been at some re- 
mote period covered wiiii water. It is surrounded by an abrupt 
bank, from 20 to 70 feet in height. The bank in some places is 
clayey, in others gravelly, and in others rocky. The lake must 
have been about seven miles in length, from north-west to south- 
east, and nearly three in width at the widest place. Westfield 
furnishes a greater variety of vegetable productions than most 
towns, on account of having such varieties of soil : sandy plains, 
mountains, meadows, and swamps. There are about 60 varieties 
of meadow grass, some of which have been found nowhere besides 
in North America. Alders, poplars, and willows, blossom about 
the middle of March. Chesnut fencing-stuff" is brought from the 
neighboring mountains, and lumber from the towns west and 
north. The elm, buttonwood, and maple grow luxuriantly in this 
valley. 

Westfield is a considerable village of about two hundred build- 



WESTFIBLD 



301 




Southern view m the central part oj Westjield 



ings, including stores and mechanic shops. The engraving shows 
the appearance of the central part of the village, as it is entered 
from the south. The building appearing on the extreme right is 
the Westfield Academy ; the two next buildings north are the old 
and new town-houses. The new one, which is surmounted by a 
small tower, was erected the present year, (1838). The Congre- 
gational church and the Hampden Bank, with four pillars, fronting 
the south, are seen beyond ; the spire of the Baptist church is 
seen in the distance. A small enclosed common, oval in its form, 
is in the central part of the area, around which the public build- 
ings are situated ; it is newly set out with shade trees, and will add 
to the beauty of the place. A range of stores, where a considera- 
ble part of the mercantile business of the place is done, is immedi- 
ately north of the Congregational church, fronting the common, 
but from the point where the above view was taken they could 
not be seen. This place is 9 miles from Springfield, 17 from 
Northampton, 28 from Hartford, Con., 60 from New Haven, Con., 
and 97 from Boston. The New Haven and Northampton canal 
passes through the village, a few rods eastward of the buildings 
seen in the engraving. The manufacture of whips is the principal 
mechanical business of the town. In 1837, there were thirteen 
whip manufactories ; value of whips manufactured was ,$153,000; 
1;54 males and 410 females were employed in this business. Forty 
persons were engaged in the manufacture of cigars, the value of 
which was ,4^11,000. There were three powder-mills, which manu- 
factured 20,000 kegs of powder, the value of which was $50,000. 
Population, 3,039. 

Westfield Acaclemy was chartered in 1796, and opened for the 
admission of students in .Tan. 1800. The follov.nng gentlemen have 
been preceptors. Those in Italics became clergymen. Peter Starr, 
Henry C. Martendale, (since a member of congress,) Lyman 



302 WESTFIELD. 

Strong, Alfred Perry, M. D., Horatio Waldo, Said Clark, Theodore 
North, Sylvester Selden, F?'ancis L. Robbins, Samnel M. Eriiersoii, 
Alfred Stearns, Charles Jenkms, Stephen Taylor, Flavel S. Gay- 
lord, George W. Beiidict, now professor of mathematics, 6cc. in 
Vermont University, Elnathan Gridley, now missionary to Pales- 
tine, Alvan Wheeler, M. D., Emerson Davis, and Parsons Cooke. 
All are graduates of Williams college except Elnathan Gridley, 
who graduated at Yale. The huilding has two school-rooms on 
the lower floor, and on the other a large hall and lecture-room. 
The institution is furnished with a sufficient quantity of chemical 
and philosophical apparatus for illustrating the general principles 
of those sciences. There is also a respectable collection of mine- 
rals for the use of the academy. Instruction is given in the depart- 
ment of natural history to those who wish. About 3 000 have 
been educated at this academy since its establishment. 

Meetings were first held on the Sabbath in this town in 16l^7. Mr. Holyoke, son 
of Major I. Holyoke. of Springfield, conducted them. After him a Mr. Fiske preached 
here as a candidate for settlement. People were called together on the Sabbath by 
the beat of the drum. A man was employed for that purpose, and was paid 25 shillings 
per year. The first meeting-house stootl near Jedediah Taylor, Esqr.'s. A second 
house was built in 1720, which was destroyed by fire. In 1678 permission was granted 
by the governor of Massachusetts colony to organize a church in Warronoco. Mr. 
Edward Taylor was a candidate for settlement. A council was convened on the last 
Wednesday of June, 1679, the church organized, and Mr. Taylor was ordained pastor. 
One of Mr. Taylor's daughters married Mr. Stiles, and was the mother of President 
Stiles, of Yale college. Mr. T. was a man eminently devoted to the work of the minis- 
try. Besides performing the duties of a pastor and managing his domestic concerns, 
he left in manuscript 14 quarto volumes, closely written, of about 400 pages each. 
He died June 29, 1729, in the 50th year of his ministry. On account of the infirmi- 
ties of age he had not preached for four or five years. His successor was the Kev. 
Nehemiah Bull, who was ordained Oct. 1726. During Mr. Bull's ministry a mission 
to the Housatonic Indians was commenced. Mr. Hopkins, of West Springfield, 
labored among them, but, being taken sick, Mr. Bull, of Westfteld, and Williams, of 
Deerfield, were appointed by Gov. Belcher, in 1734, to superintend the mission. They 
procured the Rev. J. Sargeant, then a tutor in Yale college. There was at that time, 
1735, only one house between here and Sheffield. Mr. Bull, after having introduced 
Mr. Sargeant to the Indians, remained some days, and baptized the first Indian con- 
vert. The Rev. .Tohn Ballantine succeeded Mr. Bull, and was ordained in June, 1741. 
He died Feb. 1776. Rev. Noah Atwater, a native of Hamden, New Haven Co., Con., 
succeeded Mr. Ballantine ; was ordained in 1781. He died in 1802. He was a dis- 
tinguished scholar and learned divine. He never preached the same sermon to his 
people twice, always kept twenty sermons ahead, and completed his two sermons for 
the Sabbath on Tuesday evening. He always rose before sunrise at all seasons of the 
year. He was a man of a philosophical mind. Most of his papers fell into the hands 
of the late President Dwight. His successor was the Rev. Isaac Knapp, a native of 
Norfolk, Con. He was ordained over this church in 1803. 

The Baptist society of Wesifield was organized in 1784. Rev. Adam Hamilton was 
the first pastor of this church. He was a native of England, and for a long time 
highly esteemed. On account of misconduct he lost his reputation, and was rejected 
from the fellowship of the Baptist churches. He died at Chesterfield, and it is chari- 
tably hoped he was a true penitent for some years before his death. In consequence 
of Mr. Hamilton's conduct the church became nearly extinct ; but they revived again, 
and a new church was organized in 1806. In 1807, the Rev. Azariah Hawkes'was 
ordained pastor of the society, and continued his labors about two and a half years, 
then removed to Euclid, Ohio. After this, the Rev. Caleb Green preached for some 
time ; in 1819 he was dismissed. Rev. David Wright succeeded Mr. Green, and was 
ordained Nov. 1819. 

The following, relating principally to the depredations of the 
Indians upon this town, is copied from " A Historical Sketch of 



WESTFIELD. 303 

Westfield, by Emerson Davis, A. M.;" to which pubUcation, the 
author is indebted almost entirely for the history of this town. 

No special harm was received from the Indians until the commencement of this war 
in 1675. I have compiled an account of the injuries received during this war from 
records kept by the Rev. Mr. Taylor. He remarks that they were sorely distressed, 
yet sovereignly preserved. " Our soil," he says, " was moistened by the blood of 
three Springfield men, young Goodman Dumbleton, who came to our mill, and two 
sons of Goodman Brooks, who came here to look for iron ore on land bought of Mr. J. 
Pyncheon, whp accompanied them, but they fell in the way by the first assault of the 
enemy. At the same time Mr. Cornish's house was burnt to ashes, and also John 
Sackett's house and bam with its contents, it being the first snowy day of winter. 
They also lodged a ball in Mr. Granger's leg. It was thought the enemy received 
some loss, because m the ashes of Mr. Cornish's house the bones of a man were found. 
Also in the winter some scattering rascals, upon a Lord's day, in the time of afternoon 
worship, fired Mr. Ambrose Fowler's house and barn, and in the week after Mr. 
Walter Lee's barn. On the last snowy day we had in the winter of 1675, we, discover- 
ing an end of the Indians, did send out a scout to make a full discovery of the same, 
designing only three or four to go with orders not to assault them, but, to our woe and 
smart, there going ten or twelve, not as scouts, but as assailants, run furiously upon 
them, and received from the enemy a furious charge, whereby Mr. Moses Cook, an 
inhabitant, and a soldier not an inhabitant, were killed." 

In the fall after, nine men from Westfield were at Deerfield, at the time of an 
attack upon that place, three of whom were killed. The few families residing here 
during the war were so impoverished and distressed that some left, and all more than 
once were upon the point of relinquishing their lands and uniting with other planta- 
tions for the purpose of protection. Thus their lives were in constant jeopardy ; tho» 
were few in the midst of savages, destitute of the luxuries and most of the comforts o; 
life, contented with such food as their own valley produced. Previous to 1675, a gri«t 
mill and saw mill were erected on a brook emptyi^ig into the great river just below the 
county bridge. These mills were erected by a company of four men, Mr. Whiting 
and three Dewys. The toll was regulated by a vote of the town. Debts were paid in 
grain or meat, the price of which was also regulated by a vote of the town. In 
1716 the price of rye was three shillings, corn two shillings and four-pence, and wheat 
and peas four shillings and six-pence. When debts were paid in money a discount of 
one fourth was made by the creditor in all cases. The creditor was obliged to lake 
what was offered in payment, money or grain. Besides grain, tar and turpentine were 
also an article of traffic, being manufactured by the inhabitants. Persons paid inte 
the town treasury two shillings for every hundred boxes they employed in collecting 
turpentine from the white pine. 

There was an old Indian, whom they called Grey Lock, that produced considerable 
commotion among the people. He was constantly skulking about, waylaying them 
for the purpose of taking captives. He caught a young lad by the name of Loomis, 
who went out of the fort in the early part of the evening to get cherries. He was soon 
released. Mr. Bently, in the east part of the town, worked at ditching all of one sum- 
mer. He uniformly set his loaded gun one rod before him, and A'hen he had cut his 
ditch up to the gun would move it forward again, but the next year he was taken. 
Grey Lock said he had watched for an opportunity to take him all the year previous, 
but could not ; he might have killed him, but he wanted captives. Mr. Bently was 
afterwards released. Mr. Noble, who lived near where Mr. Ambrose Day now lives, 
was much exposed. One night during family prayers Grey Lock stepped up and 
pulled the string and let the door swing open ; some of the family shut the door, and 
as soon as all was quiet he would pull the string again. Mr. Noble was persuaded by 
his friends to move into town. Grey Lock said he had several opportunities of killing 
most of his children at a shot, but did not want scalps so much as captives. 

Mr. Phelps, who Uved in Shepard Lane, returning from work at Pochasuck, came to 
the fording place of Great river, and saw three Indians in the river. He considered 
his situation perilous. They were coming towards him. He clapped his hands and 
exclaimed, " Here they are, my brave boys ! rush on, we have them ! " at which the 
Indians took the alarm and escaped. 

Noah Ashley, of whom mention is made in another place, returning from work at 
Pochasuck, was met by an Indian near the Bancroft house. Both drew up their guns, 
but Ashley fired first and the Indian fled. He was tracked by blood through the 
brush to a place near by, but was never found. The plain has ever since been called 
" Indian Plain." 

41 



304 WEST SPRINGFIELD. 

A daughtei of the second wife of a Mr. Sackett (her name I do not know) was taken 
captive by the Indians and carried to the north-west part of New York, married an 
Indian, and remained among them as long as she lived. Her descendants have been 
here to see their mother's friends several times since the French war. Previous to 
that they used some exertions to make others of the Sackett family captives, but did 
not succeed. 

About the time of the French war a man was killed at the Farms while looking for 
his cow, and another at Southampton. He was in a barn threshing, with his gun 
standing near, but as he turned his back to the door he was fired upon by the Indian 
and killed. 

A signal was given on the discovery of Indians in the vicinity by twice firing a gun. 
An alarm of this kind was once given, and the central village was deserted by all the 
male inhabitants ; while absent, a company of Indians appeared on the bank south of 
the town, with the intention, as it aftenvards appeared, to make a hostile attack, but 
were deterred, on seeing the number of the houses and smoke curling from every chim- 
ney, through fear of finding the whites of superior strength. Thus the town was pro- 
videntially preserved, when four or five might have laid it in ashes. I have been 
informed that two tribes wandered about in this vicinity. The rivers afforded fish in 
great variety in those days, such as bass, salmon, shad, &;c., and the forests abounded 
with bears, deer, &cc., while on the meadows and plains maize was easily cultivated. 
A field on Little river, now called Squawfield, was probably cultivated by them. There 
arrow-heads and other Indian utensils were formerly found in abundance. There is 
a collection of their utensils in the academy, together with an Indian's head, the bones 
of the skull and face nearly perfect, said to have been dug up in the vicinity of Harri- 
son's tavern. Very few facts relative to the aborigines have been recorded, and there- 
fore I am able to give only a very brief account of them at this period. 



WEST SPRINGFIELD. 

This town was originally a part of Springfield ; it was made a 
parish in 1696, and was incorporated as a distinct town in 1773. It 
is supposed that settlements commenced in this town as early as 
1654 or ^55, as there were in those years a number of house-lots 
granted on Chicopee plain, on the west side of the river. These 
grants were made to the following persons : — Francis Pepper, 
Anthony Dorchester, Samuel Terry, Hugh Dudley, John Dum- 
bleton. Miles Morgan, John Stewart, Obadiah Miller, and Simon 
Sacket. Thomas Cooper and Abel Leonard settled on the south- 
west side of the Agawam, about 1660, and in a short time Thomas 
Merrick was there also. A few years after this, house-lots were 
granted as far west as Paucatuck Brook, and among the settlers 
are found the names of Riley, Foster, Jones, Petty, Scot, Barber, 
Rogers, Parsons, Fowler, Ely, Bagg, and Day. In May, 1695, 
the inhabitants on this side of the river, consisting of thirty-two 
families and upwards of 200 souls, presented a petition to the 
general court " that they might be permitted to invite and settle a 
minister." This petition was granted ; a church was formed in 
1698, and in 1702 the first meeting-house was erected. The first 
or " old burying-ground " is said to have been the gift of a person 
by the name of Foster. The oldest monuments to be found in it 
are those of Mr. Nathaniel Dwit, who died Nov. 1, 1711, and of 
Deacon John Barber, who died June 27, 1712. 

In 1750, a number of inhabitants in the north part of West 
Springfield united with a number on the east side of the river, 



WEST SPRINGFIELD. 305 

and petitioned the general court that they might be incorporated 
into a distinct parish. This petition was granted the next year, 
and they were incorporated as the fifth parish in Springfield, and 
Rev. John M'Kinstry was set apart as their minister and a meet- 
ing-house erected the same year. Afterwards the part on the 
west side became the third parish in West Springfield, being thus 
incorporated in 1786. This place has been usually called Ireland, 
from the circumstance, it is said, that several Irish families were 
among the earliest settlers in this part of the town. The Congre- 
gational church in this parish was formed in 1799, and consisted 
originally of 9 members. The Baptist church here was formed, 
and Rev. Thomas Rand constituted its pastor, in 1803. 

In 1757 the southern part of the town was erected into a dis- 
tinct parish, containing about 75 families. It was then the sixth 
parish in Springfield ; in 1773 it became the second parish in West 
Springfield. In Nov., 1762, a church was formed here, and Rev. 
Sylvanus Griswold was constituted its pastor. In 1727, there 
were five persons baptized by immersion in the town, by Rev. 
Elisha Callender, pastor of a church in Boston. In 1740, they, 
with several others who had joined them, were formed into a 
church, and Rev. Edward Upham became their pastor. The prin- 
cipal field of Mr. Upham's labors was in the second parish. In 
1800 this parish was divided by an act of the legislature, form- 
mg what are usually called the parishes of Agawani and Feeding 
Hills. The meeting-house, which had been built by the second 
parish, was removed in 1799 from its original site to where it now 
stands, in Feeding Hills. A meeting-house in Agawam, whicli the 
Baptists and Congregationalists occupied alternately, was erected 
in 1803. 

West Springfield extends along the west bank of Connecticut 
river the whole breadth of Hampden county. It is intersected by 
Westfield river, and the soil is generally very fertile, particularly 
on the banks of the rivers. There are high hills or mountains in 
the north part of the town, and sandy plains at the south. Great 
quantities of rye are annually raised. In 1837, there was in this 
town 1 cotton mill, 2,700 cotton spindles; 261,000 yards of cotton 
goods were manufactured ; valued at $33,270. There were two 
woollen mills ; woollen machinery 2 sets ; 26,000 yards of cloth 
were manufactured, valued at $16,600. There were 80 Saxony, 
1,881 merino, 1,413 other kinds of sheep; average weight of fleece, 

3 pounds ; value of wool produced, $5,107. There are 7 churches, 

4 Congregational, 2 Baptist, and 1 Methodist. Population. 3,227. 
Distance, 10 miles N. of Sufiield, and 93 westward from Boston. 

The following is believed to be a correct representation of the 
first meeting-house in this town, which was erected in 1702. The 
dimensions of this meeting-house, as near as can be ascertained, 
were 42 feet square on the ground, and 92 feet in height. The 
architect was John Allys, of Hatfield. Until 1743, tlie people 
assembled for public worship at the beating of the drum. This 
continued to be occupied as a place of worship till June 20, 1802, 



306 WEST SPRINGFIELD. 



Ancient Church, West Springfield. 

when, the new one being completed, Dr. Lathrop preached a vale- 
dictory sermon, from Psalm xlviii. 9. The old house remained till 
1820, when by a vote of the parish it was taken down- A large 
part of the timber was then quite sound, and some of it used in 
building the town-house. "The house in which Mr. Woodbridge 
[the first minister] lived," says Rev. Mr. Sprague in his historical 
discourse delivered at West Springfield in 1824, "stood a few rods 
north of the spot now occupied by the house of Mr. Aaron Day. 
There is a tradition that there was a cavern connected by a pas- 
sage with the cellar of the house, to which the women and chil- 
dren of the neighborhood fled for protection in case of alarm from 
the Indians. The present appearance of the ground is such as to 
give a high degree of probability to the tradition." 

" The following account of a singular incident, which took place,'' says Dr. Dwight, 
(vol. i. Travels,) "in the first settlement of this township, was communicated to me in 
the year 1798, by Captain Noble, a respectable inhabitant of Hoosac, N. Y., at Noble's 
Falls, who was then about 76 years of age. It was transmitted from his ancestor, 
one of the persons concerned. One of the first planters of Springfield was a tailor, and 
another a carpenter. The tailor had for a small consideration purchased of an Indian 
chief a tract of land in what is now West Springfield, forming a square of three miles 
on a side. The carpenter had constructed a clumsy wheelbarrow, for which the tailor 
offered to make him a suit of clothes, or convey him the land. After some delibera- 
tion he exchanged the wheelbarrow for the land. This tract contained the best settled 
part of West Springfield ; many an acre of which might now be sold, for the purposes 
of cultivation only, at the price of one hundred dollars. I will not assert that there is 
no error in the story ; yet on the face of it there is nothing improbable. When the 
fourth part of a township of the common size was sold by one Englishman to another 
for a wheelbarrow, it will be easily believed that it was of still less value to the 
aborigines. The small prices paid by the first colonists for the lands in this country, 
are no evidence that the bargains were fraudulent or inequitable. To the Indian 
without an English purchaser, the land was often worth nothing ; and to the colonist 
its value was created by his labor." 

The first minister in West Springfield was Rev. John Wood- 
bridge. He was constituted pastor at the formation of the first 
church, in 1698. He died in 1718, at the age of 40 years. His sue- 



WILBRAHAM. 307 

cesser was Rev. Samuel Hopkins, who was ordained in 1720; he 
died in 1755, in the 36th year of his ministry. He has the reputa- 
tion of being an eminently prudent and faithful minister, though it 
appears that in the early part of his ministry he was suspected by 
some of being heterodox. A Mr. Jonathan Worthington, of Spring- 
field, was presented by the grand jury for making such an asser- 
tion, and was fined by the court, in 1722. Mr. Hopkins was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Joseph Lathrop, who was consecrated to the minis- 
try here in 1756, and died on the last day of December, 1820, in 
the 65ih year of his ministry. 

The Rev. Dr. Lathrop was a descendant of the Rev. John Lothrop, who came to New 
England with several sons in 1634, and was afterwards settled in Barnstable. Samuel, 
the youngest son of this progenitor, went to Norwich in Connecticut, and settled there ; 
and there Joseph, his great-grandson, was born, in 1731. In his 19th year he entered 
Yale college, where he was graduated in 1754, In 1756 he settled in the ministry in 
a parish in Springfield, Massachusetts, now the town of West Springfield, where he per 
formed the duties of the pastoral office upwards of 60 years. On the day which con 
eluded the 60th year of his ministry, 25 August, 1816, he preached to a large audience^ 
and the sermon was printed. His ministrations were still continued until the las'. 
Sabbath in March, 1818, when, on account of the infirmities of age and the imperfec- 
tion of sight, he declined the public services of the Sabbath, and requested his society 
to provide for him an assistant or colleague ; and in 1819, the 63d anniversary of his 
own ordination, he attended the ordination of his colleague, the Rev. William B. 
Sprague, and took a part in the public solemnities. Dr. Lathrop, to " an intellect of 
the first order," united the kindly affections. Benevolence marked his whole charac- 
ter. To all his other estimable qualities, he added a serenity and cheerfulness of tem- 
per, which gave to his old age a charm as rare as it was delightful. He was equally 
remote from the intemperate heat of enthusiasm, and that lifeless system, which 
excludes all exercise of the affections. He was exemplary in the observance of the 
duties of piety and devotion, and of the social and relative duties. As a Christian 
minister he was very conspicuous. To his comprehensive intellect and exalted piety 
was added the acquired knowledge necessary to constitute a great theologian. In his 
pastoral intercourse he was peculiarly attentive to the state and circumstances of his flock, 
and an eminent example of prudence. " He was cautious without being timid, fami- 
liar without sacrificing his dignity, condescending without abandoning what he believed 
to be principles of duty." In doubtful and perplexing cases of ecclesiastical concern, 
he was distinguished as a wise, judicious, and upright counsellor ; and great confidence 
was reposed in his judgment. To the truly evangelical principles which he delivered 
to others he steadfastly adhered, and he finished his course in the faith and hope of 
the gospel. His occasional discourses have been extensively read and highly approved, 
especially the " Seasonable Warning to the Churches;" and his other works have met 
with an uncommonly favorable reception. Four volumes of sermons were published 
during his life, and a fifth volume, with a memoir of his life, has been published since 
his decease." — Holmes^ Annals, 2d edition, published in 1829 



WILBRAHAM. 

This town was originally a part of the ancient town of Spring- 
field. In May, 1731, Nathaniel Hitchcock removed from Spring- 
field, and built a house on the spot afterwards occupied by the 
house of Dr. Samuel F. Merrick. This was the beginning of the 
settlement of the town. Mr. Hitchcock and his family lived here 
one year alone. In 1732, Noah Alvord, with his family, removed 
here ; and in 1733, Daniel Warner and four others, with their fami- 
lies, also removed here. From that period, there was a gradual 
increase till 1741, when the number of families increased to twen- 



308 



W I L B R A H A M 



ty-four. In May of this year, the parish was incorporated by the 
name of the fourth parish of Springfield, but it usually went by 
the name of Springfield Mountains till 1763, wlien it was incor- 
porated as a town by its present name. It had not, however, the 
privilege of sending a representative to the general court till the 
adoption of the new constitution, in 1780. Rev. Noah Merrick, 
the first minister in this place, was ordained in 1741. The or- 
daining service was to have been performed under a large oak 
tree, but as the morning proved rainy the people assembled in a 
barn belonging to Mrs. Warriner, and there attended the ordaining 
solemnities. There were six male church members, viz., Nathaniel 
Warriner and David Merrick, (afterwards deacons,) Moses Burt, 
Nathaniel Hitchcock, Stephen Stebbins, and Samuel Stebbins. 




Weiterii vkw of the Wesleyan Accuhmy in Wilbraham. 

It appears that the council that convened to organize the church, 
determined that no less than seven could constitute a church, and 
were therefore brought to a stand in their proceedings. At length 
David Warriner stated that he had for some time wished to make 
a profession, but waited only for the ordination of a minister. Be- 
ing admitted to the number, the council were relieved from their 
difficulty. The first meeting-house in AV ilbraham was built in 
1748. It stood 30 rods south of the house occupied by Mr. Mer- 
rick, the first minister. In 1783, the town was divided into two 
parishes. 

The above is a western view of the " Wesleyan Academy" in 
Wilbraham, taken from the boarding-house, a three-story building 
on the opposite side of the street. This institution was incorpo- 
rated in 1824, and is governed by a board of trustees. It has ever 
been in high repute ; it had during the last year (1837) upwards 
of 300 pupils, of whom 190 were males and 114 females. Scho- 
lars are received from 10 years old and upwards. " The course of 
study is systematic and extensive, and includes all those branches 
which are requisite to prepare the pupil for the common business 



WILBRAHAM. 30d 

of life, or for a higher course of collegiate or professional duties. 
The year is divided into four terms, corresponding, as nearly as 
possible, with the four seasons." The academy is 10 miles west of 
Springfield, 30 miles north-easterly from Hartford, and 83 wester- 
ly from Boston. There are in the town 4 churches, 2 Congrega- 
tional and 2 Methodist. Population, 1,802. In 1837, there were in 
this town 457 Saxony, 1,054 merino, and 781 other kinds of sheep, 
and the value of wool produced was $3,668 62 ; capital invested, 
$35,460. The value of boots and shoes manufactured, $8,498 75 ; 
value of straw bonnets and straw braid manufactured, $2,000 ; 
palm-leaf hats manufactured, 7,145, valued at $1,000 30. 

The following is from the Massachusetts Spy, (Worcester,) Nov. 
20, 1805 : 

Mk. Thomas, Jun. Sir, — I have written the following at the earnest request of the 
relatives of the deceased. Please to give it a place in your paper, and you will gratify 
the public, and discharge a duty which humanity imposes. 

Your real friend, Z. L. L. 

Horrid Murder and Robbery. 

Mr. Marcus Lyon, a young man of peculiar respectability, about 23 years of age, 
left his friends in Woodstock, Con., last March, and went to Cazenovia, N. Y., and 
labored through the season. As he was on his return to his native place, mounted on an 
excellent horse, he was attacked by two merciless ruffians in Wilbraham, on the Spring- 
field turnpike road, between the gate and Sikes' tavern, on the 9th inst. about 2 o'clock, 
P. M., and there murdered in the most barbarous manner. The circumstances attend- 
ing the awful scene are almost too shocking to humanity to relate. It is supposed, 
from the best circumstantial evidence, that the unfortunate young gentleman was first 
shot with a pistol ; but the assassins, perceiving the wound not fatal, (as the ball was 
afterwards found on the outside of his ribs,) fell upon him like bloodhounds, and with 
a club and breech of the pistol lacerated and mangled his head in a most savage and 
barbarous manner. The upper part of his head over the cerebrum, and also over his 
left eye, was indented with wounds, evidently made with the cock of the pistol, and 
the back part, against the cerebellum, was all mashed to a pulp. They beat him till 
the guard of the pistol flew off" and the ramrod was knocked out, which were afterwards 
found lying on the fatal spot. Having thus far gratified their infernal disposition, they 
robbed him of his pocket-book, (how much money it contained we are not able to 
inform,) then threw him over the wall, dragged him a few rods to Chicopee river, 
and there deposited him, and placed large flat stones upon his head to prevent his 
rising. Without delay they next conveyed the horse through a small piece of wood to 
a sequestered enclosure, and then turned him loose, with saddle, saddle-bags and bridle 
on, and then went on. Soon after the horse was found and taken up ; the neighbors 
conjectured he had by accident gotten away from some place where his rider had 
hitched him, and supposed that inquiry would soon be made for him, it being Saturday 
in the afternoon. They waited till Sunday morning, but, alas! no rider appeared? 
The alarm spread. The woods, fields, and every bye corner were searched, and at even- 
ing they found the corpse close by the edgeof the river, with all his clothes on, mittens on 
his hands, and his great coat wrapped about his head, with a large stone pressing him 
to the bottom. The pistol was found on the brink, broken to pieces. The young 
man's hat, new and unharmed, was discovered under a small bridge near the spot. 
The corpse was conveyed to a neighboring house, and the inhabitants paid that pecu- 
liar attention which sympathy alone can dictate and gratitude reward. The remains 
were conveyed to Woodstock on Tuesday, and the funeral attended on Wednesday, 
when the Rev. Ahiel Ledoyt addressed the assembly from Mark xiii. 33. The giief 
of the mourners, the numbers convened, and the tears that profusely flowed, presented 
a scene which we conclude has never had a parallel in these our inland towns. 

The villains who perpetrated the awful crime are supposed to be two foreigners in 
sailors' dress, who were seen that day by a number of people making their way toward 
Springfield. One particular circumstance tends much to strengthen the suspicion. A 
lad, about 13 years of age, being sent after some hogs in the woods, near the place 
of the murder, happened to come out into the road, within two or three rods of two 
men in sailors' habit. He declared under oath before the jury of inquest, that before 



HIO A M H K R S T 

he got out of sight of them, he saw one mount the same horse which was aAerwarrls 
found, and ride him up the hill into the woods, while the other stood with a new cud- 
gel in his hand leaning upon the wall. The same persons, according to the descrip- 
tion, were soon after observed travelling m great haste towards Springfield. We are 
happy to learn that his excellency Governor Strong issued a proclamation offering a 
reward of Jive hundred dollars for the detection of the villains, and that the high sheriff 
of Hampshire county greatly interested himself \n taking measures to detect them, 
which we learn have proved effectual, and the murderers are both committed to gaol 
in Northampton. (See Northampton.) 



HAMPSHIRE COUNTY. 

Hampshire county was incorporated in 1662, and embraced at that 
time the three counties of the state which are centrally intersected 
by Cormecticut river. Before its division it was the largest county 
in the state, and Northampton, being in the central part, was a 
shire town. The county was divided into three by the legislature 
of 1811 and '12. Franklin county was formed from the northern 
section, Hampden the southern ; Hampshire, the central part, re- 
tained the original name. The surface of Hampshire is generally 
hilly, and in some parts mountainous. The land in the western 
part of the county gradually rises, and its western border lies on 
the summits of the Green Mountain range. The Lyme and Mount 
Tom ranges of mountains begin in this county, and continue to 
the ocean, on the southern shore of Connecticut. The soil is of 
very unequal quality, being best in the center, and growing less and 
less fertile towards the eastern and western extremities. There 
are, however, fine interval lands on the banks of the Connec- 
ticut, being some of the best lands in the state. 

The following is a list of the towns, which are 23 in number. 

Amherst, Granby, Northampton, Southampton, 

Belchertown, Goshen, Norwich, Ware, 

Chesterfield, Greenwich, Pelham, Westhampton, 

Cummington, Hadley, Plainfield, Williamsburg, 

Easthampton, Hatfield, Prescott, Worthington. 

Enfield, Middlefield, South Hadley, 

In 1820, the population of this county was 26,447; in 1830, it 
was 30,210; in 1837, it was 30,413. 



AMHERST. 



This town was originally a precinct of Hadley. called " Hadley 
East or Third Precinct." It was incorporated as a town in 1759. 
The first church was organized, and Rev. David Parsons, the first 
minister, was settled Nov. 7th, 1739; he died in 1781, and was 
succeeded by his son, Rev. David Parsons, D. D., who \vas or- 
dained in 1782. "The ministers who belonged to the council 
which ordained Dr. Parsons, were the Rev. Messrs. Robert Breck, 



AMHERST 



311 



of Springfield, Joseph Ashley, of Sunderland, John Hubbard, of 
Northfield, Samuel Hopkins, D. D., of Hadley, Roger Newton, 
D. D. of Greenfield, Simon Backus, of Granby, and Josiah Dana, 
of Barre." Dr. Parsons died suddenly at Wethersfield, Con., 
where his remains were interred. He was succeeded by Rev. 
Daniel A. Clark, who was settled in 1820, and continued here in 
the ministry till Aug., 1824. Rev. Royal Washburn next suc- 
ceeded, and continued his labors here five and a half years, and 
died in 1833. Rev. Micaiah T. Adam succeeded Mr. Washburn. 
He is a native of England, and passed a number of years a mission- 
ary of the London Missionary Society at Benares, in Hindoostan. 
Rev. Josiah Bent succeeded Mr. Adam, in 1837. 




North-western mew of Amherst College. 

The Second Parish in Amherst was incorporated in 1783. The 
church was organized the year previous, and their first minister, 
Rev. Ichabod Draper, was ordained in 178.5. He was succeeded 
by Rev. Nathan Perkins in 1810. The Sovth Parish was incor- 
porated in 1824. The church was organized in 1824, and Rev. 
Horace B. Chapin, the first minister, was ordained the following 
year. The North Parish was incorporated in 1826, and Rev. Wil- 
liam W. Hunt was settled as pastor of the church the next year. 

The above is a nortJi-western view of the Amherst College build- 
ings, which are four in number, constructed of brick. Three are 
occupied by students ; the one surmoimted with a tower is occupied 
as a chapel, library, and for lecture-rooms. These buildings stand 
on a commanding eminence, and overlook the valley of the Con- 
necticut to a great extent. " This institution was established in 1821. 
Its resources were comparatively limited at first, and its success, 
by some, considered doubtful ; but it is now in a highly prosperous 
state. It has a fund of |50,000, made up of the contributions of 
individuals. This fund is under the direction of five trustees, 
chosen by the subscribers ; and the interest is annually appropri- 
ated towards the support of the college. There are 7 or 8 pro- 



312 AMHERST. 

fessors, including the president, 3 or 4 tutors, besides other officers ; 
and from 150 to 200 students. The yearly expenses of a student 
are from 90 to 118 dollars, including college bills and board. 
There are three vacations per annum ; the first for four weeks 
from commencement, which takes place the fourth Wednesday 
in August, the second for six weeks from the fourth Wednes- 
day in December, the third for three weeks from the third Wednes- 
day in May. The number of volumes in the library is 7,000 and 
upwards, and the terms of admission, and the courses of study, 
are similar to those of Yale college, Con. The numerous diffi- 
culties which Amherst college encountered in its infancy are fresh 
in the recollection of many persons, as well as the violent opposi- 
tion which was raised against the application of the trustees for a 
charter from the general court." — American Magazine, 1835. 

The venerable Noah Webster, LL. D., the author of the Ameri- 
can Dictionary of the English Language, was for a time a resi- 
dent of this town, and was one of the presidents of the board of the 
Amherst academy. He inaugurated the first president, and deli- 
vered an address on the occasion, standing on the north-west 
corner-stone of the south college. Besides the college, there is 
in the place an academy, and a seminary, called the " Moimt 
Pleasant Institutiony There are 9 or 10 instructers, and it has 
acquired celebrity throughout the state. 

The village in the vicinity of the college consists of about 75 
well-built dwelling-houses, a bank, and other public buildings. 
Distance, 6^ miles to Northampton, 108 from Dartmouth col- 
lege, N. H., 46 from Hartford, and 82 miles west of Boston. Popu- 
lation, 2,602. In 1837, there were in this town 2 woollen mills, 
4 sets of woollen machinery ; wool consumed, 39,000 lbs. ; cloth 
manufactured, 62,195 yards, valued at $40,337; males employed, 
22 ; females, 30 ; capital invested, f 30,000. Two hat manufacto- 
ries ; value of hats manufactured, $3,600 : palm-leaf hats manu- 
factured, 60,000, valued at $12,000 ; value of carriages manufac- 
tured, $100,000; hands employed, 100; capital invested, $30,000; 
value of joiners' planes manufactured, $8,000. There were 2 pa- 
per mills; stock manufactured, 42 tons; value of paper, $7,000. 

The following inscriptions are copied from monuments in the 
grave-yard in this place : 

In memory of the Rev^- Mr. David Parsons, first pastor of tfie church at Amherst, 
who died Jan. 1, 1781, in the 69 year of his age, and 41st of his ministry. A man 
of God and faithful servant of Jesus Christ. Rev. 14, 13. Blessed are the dead that 
die in the Lord ; yea, saith the Spirit, their works do follow them. 



Rev. Royal Washburn, born at Royalton, Vt., Dec. 6, 1797, graduated at Vermont 
University, 1820, and at the Andover Theological Seminary, 1824, settled as pastor of 
the first church and parish, Amherst, Jan. 4, 1826, died Jan. 1, 1833. Honored & be- 
loved in the church, having a good report of them without ; seeming blameless as the 
steward of God ; in doctrine showing sincerity and sound speech, in practice a pattern 
of good works ; yet lowly of heart, & ascribing all to the grace of God through Christ ; 
his ministry short, but blessed with joyous fruit ; his life as becometh saints ; his death 
full of peace. Multum diuque desidersibimus.* 

* Much and long shall we lament for him. 



BELCHERTOWN. 318 

Hie jacet corpus sepultum Reverendi Zephani^ Swift Moore, S. T. D., Collegii 
Amherstiae Prsesidis. Ille homo ingenioque scientia, atque pietate sincera, praeclarus ; 
ac mentis gravitate quoqne insigni quum se demittens. Animo et consilio certus, sed 
tamen mitissimus semperque facilitate permagna, modestus, placabilis, misericordia et 
fructibus bonis plenus. Non dijudicans, non simulator ; discipulis suis veneratus quasi 
illis pater dilectusque. Maximo omnium desiderio mortem obiii, die XXX Jun., Anno 
Domini MDCCCXXIII. JEtatis suae LIII. Hanoveriae gradum Artium Baccalaurei 
admissus, anno Domini MDCCXCIII. Ecclesise Logecestriensis Pastor annos XIV, 
Collegii Dartmuthensis linguarum Professor IV, Collegii Gulielrai Prjeses II. Cura- 
tores Collegii Amlierstias hoc saxum ponendum curavere. 

[Here lies buried the body of the Reverend Zephaniah Swift Moore, D. D., President 
of the College at Amherst. He was a man pre-eminent for genius, and science, and 
sincere piety, as well as greatness of mind and humility. He was firm in his pur- 
poses, and yet very mild, easy to be entreated, modest, placable, full of mercy and good 
works. He was not cen.sorious, and no dissembler. By his pupils he was loved and 
venerated as a father. To the great grief of all, he died on the 30th of June, in the 
year of our Lord 1823, and in the 53d year of his age. He received the degree of 
Bachelor of Arts at Hanover in 1793; he was pastor of the church at Leicester 14 
years. Professor of languages at Dartmouth College 4 years. President of Williams Col- 
lege 2 years. The trustees of the college at Amherst have ordered this stone to be 
erected.] 

BELCHERTOWN.=>s^ 

The towns of Belchertown, Ware, and Pelham, were originally 
included in one tract, and styled the Equivalent Lands, from the 
following circumstance. The towns of Woodstock, Somers, En- 
field, and Suffield, in Connecticut, were formerly supposed to be- 
long to the province of Massachusetts, and were for many years 
under her jurisdiction; and though it afterwards appeared that 
they were included within the boundaries of Connecticut, the pro- 
vince of Massachusetts still claimed jurisdiction over them. It 
was, therefore, agreed between the two governments, that an equal 
extent of territory should be given to Connecticut as an equiva- 
lent. This, and the adjacent towns above mentioned, were inclu- 
ded in that territory, and were thence denominated the Equivalent 
Lands. Connecticut afterwards sold a considerable portion of this 
township to six individuals, in and near Boston, one of whom was 
the Hon. Jonathan Belcher, who was for many years afterwards 
the governor of Massachusetts colony. About the year 1740, the 
towns in Connecticut above mentioned threw off the jurisdiction 
of Massachusetts, and have since been incorporated with that 
state. 

The grant made to these proprietors was first laid out in 1727. 
Another grant, comprising about 14,000 acres, adjoining this, on 
the north, was subsequently made to several inhabitants of North- 
ampton, of whom Pemberton, Vance, Saltonstall, and the reverend 
and venerable Jonathan Edwards, were the principal proprietors. 
This tract was laid out into lots of 100 acres each, about the year 
1760, and the whole became a town corporate by an act of the gene- 
ral court in 1761. The remaining section of the equivalent lands 
was sold to Col. Stoddard, of Northampton. 

* The author is indebted for the history of this town principally to a communiratioii 
from the Hon. Mark Doolittle of this town. It was published in the Hampshire Centinel, 
a newspaper primed in this town, in 1827. 



214 BELCHERTOWN. 

This tract of country, from Shutesbiiry to Chicopee river, it ap- 
pears, was formerly distinguished as the best hunting-ground in 
this vicinity for deer and other wild game. The hunters were ac- 
customed to encircle a large tract of land by a line of fires, which, 
burning in every direction, gradually encompassed the game in a 
circle so narrow, that they became an easy prey to their pursuers; 
and in process of time our native forests were destroyed, and, in a 
great measure, consumed by the hunters' fires. But these lands 
which had been thus burnt were soon covered with a species of 
wild grass, affording excellent pasturage for cattle ; and for many 
years great numbers of cattle and horses were annually sent out 
from Northampton and Hadley to graze upon these hills during 
the summer season. The practice of burning over these lands also 
continued a considerable time after the first settlement of the 
place. 

This town was first known by the name of Cold Spring. It 
took its name from a noted cold spring in the eastern part of the 
town, near the path that was formerly travelled from Northamp- 
ton to Brookfield and Boston. After leaving Hadley, there was, 
for many years, no house nearer than Brookfield ; and this spring, 
lying midway between the two towns, afforded a convenient place 
for Refreshment to the traveler in his solitary journey through the 
wilderness. As the communications between the towns upon the 
river and the eastern section of the state became more frequent, 
the spring became a celebrated watering-place for travellers, and 
finally gave name to the township. In honor of Governor Belcher, 
one of its original proprietors, it was, however, in the act of its in- 
corporation, called Belcher's Town ; which, by common usage, has 
passed into the name of Belchertown. The town is now about 
twelve miles in length, with an average breadth of about five miles, 
and is esthnated to contain about 34,000 acres of land. The first 
settlement of tiie town Avas made about 1732, by two or three fami- 
Jies. The first permanent inhabitant was Dea. Aaron Lyman, 
who settled in the east part of the town, near the celebrated spring 
above mentioned. His son, the late Major Lyman, was the first 
male child born in the town. The next settlement that was made 
was by Col. Timothy Dwight, who established himself near the 
middle of the town. He was originally the sole proprietor of the 
lands in the central part of the town, a valuable portion of which 
remains to this day in the possession of his descendants. The set- 
tlements were gradually increased by successive emigrants from 
Northampton and Hatfield. 

The following view was taken from near the public house, situated 
at the south end of the wide street or common, in the central part 
of Belchertown. It shows the two Congregational churches, and 
in the distance, at the north end of the common, is seen " the 
Belchertoivn. Classical SchooV It was incorporated in 1836. This 
institution is one of much promise ; it is in a flourishing state, and 
has at present about sixty pupils of both sexes. The village is 
situated on a hill, and consists of about forty dwelling-houses, three 



BELCHERTOWN. 



316 




Southern vkm in Belchertown. 

churches, 2 Congregational and 1 Baptist, a number of mercan- 
tile stores and mechanic shops. Distance, 15 miles from North- 
ampton, 18 from Springfield, 28 from Greenfield, 10 from Ware vil- 
lage, 9 from Amherst college, 38 from Worcester, and 77 from 
Boston. Population, 2,598. In 1837, there were 3,000 sheep in 
this town; wool produced, 9,000 lbs., valued at $5,400. About 
600 one-horse wagons were manufactured, the value of which 
was estimated at $24,000. 

It appears probable, from some imperfect town records, that the 
first minister, the Rev. Edward Billings, was ordained here in 1739. 
Mr. Billings left no church records, and the names and number of 
the first members cannot be ascertained : it appears, however, at 
this period, that the entire population of the town consisted only 
of twenty families. Mr. Billings continued pastor about twelve 
years, when he was dismissed on account of a difterence of senti- 
ment between him and his church respecting the admission of 
members. He was afterwards installed over the church at Green- 
field, and died in a few years. The next pastor was Rev. Justus 
Forward, who was ordained Feb. 25, 1756. The population had then 
increased to 55 or 60 families, comprising about 300 souls, and the 
church at that time consisted of 69 members. The following is a 
list of the male members, viz. : 



Dea. John Smith, 
Dea. Aaron Lyman, 
Abner Smith, 
Daniel Smith, 
Joseph Smith, 
Elijah Smith, 
Jonathan Graves, 
Ebenezer Bridgman, 
Joseph Bridgman, 



Benjamin Stebbins, 
Walter Fairfield, 
Stephen Fairfield, 
Samuel Hannum, 
Moses Hannum, 
Aaron Hannum, 
Gideon Hannum, 
Eliakim Phelps, 
Joseph Phelps, 



Nathan Parsons, 
Moses Warner, 
Ebenezer Warner, 
Nathaniel Dwight, 
Hezekiah Root, 
Thomas Brown, 
Thomas Chapin, 
Benjamin Morgan, 
Nathaniel Cowles, 



Israel Cowles, 
Ebenezer Stearns, 
Thomas Graves, 
John Graves, 
Benjamin Billings, 
Joseph Bardwell. 



Mr. Forward continued in the ministry more than fifty-eight 



316 CHESTERFIELD. 

years, and died March 8th, 1814, in the 84th year of his age. 
Rev. Experience Porter, the next minister, was installed pastor in 
1814 ; he resigned in 1825, and was succeeded by Rev. Lyman 
Coleman the same year : Rev. Jared Reid, the next pastor, was 
installed in 1833. The Brainerd church was organized in 1834. 
The following inscriptions are copied from monuments in the 
grave-yard, about a mile eastward of the village : 

Sacred to the memory of Rev. Justus Forward, pastor of the church in Belcherstown, 
who, skilled in Evangelical Doctrine, exemplary in christian duty, prudent in council, 
valiant for the truth, faithful and successful in labours, after a long and useful minis- 
try, in which with reputation to himself, and to the spiritual benefit of his flock, he 
served God, and his generation, fell asleep March 8, A. D. 1814, in the 84th year of 
his age, and the 59th of his ministry. Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. 



In memory of Capt. Nathaniel Dwight, who died March 30th, 1784, in the 72d year 
of his age. He was one of the first settlers of this town, & was esteemed & em- 
ployea in public business in town and county thro' his whole life. 

Come honest sexton with your spade, I Tho' I must die and turn to dust, 

And let my grave be quickly made ; | I hope to rise among the just. 

On Heaven's decree I waiting lie, Jesus my body will refine. 

And all my wishes are to die. | I shall with him in glory shine. 



CHESTERFIELD 

This town was incorporated in 1762. The Congregational 
church in this town was formed in 1764, and the Rev. Benjamin 
Mills was ordained pastor the same year. He resigned in 1774, 
and died in 1785. Rev. Joseph Kilbourn was settled in 1780, and 
died within one year ; his successor was Rev. Timothy Allen, who 
was settled in 1785, and continued pastor about ten years. Rev. 
Isaiah Waters was settled in 1796, and was pastor till 1831 ; his 
successor was Rev. Israel G. Rose. 

This town is watered by the north branch of Westfield river. 
The channel of this river in the western part of the town may be 
regarded as a curiosity. " It is worn into the solid rock in places 
nearly thirty feet in depth, and may be traced from the bridge 
nearly sixty rods, appearing as if cut out by human hands." This 
town is situated on one of the eastern ridges of the Green moun- 
tains. Beryl and emeralds have been found in the town. In 1837, 
there was in the town one woollen mill ; cloth manufactured, 4,500 
yards, valued at $5,600. There were 1,000 Saxony, 5,000 merino, 
and 1,100 other kinds of sheep ; Saxony wool produced, 2,500 lbs. ; 
merino, 15,000 lbs. ; other kinds of wool, 3,300 lbs. ; average weight 
of fleece, two and three fourths pounds; value of wool, $12,480; 
capital invested, $106,500. Population, 1,158. Distance, 12 miles 
from Northampton, 27 from Pittsfield, and 105 from Boston. 



C U M M I N G T O N . 317 



CUMMINGTON. 

This town was sold by the general court to Col. John Cum- 
mings, of Concord, in 1762. The first meeting of the proprietors 
was held at Concord, in December, of the same year, and the first 
meeting held at Cummington was in June, 1771. The first per- 
son who resided within the present limits of the town was a 
Scotchman, by the name of Mclntire, who, with his family, 
began a settlement here in 1770. Many of the early settlers 
came from Bridgewater and Abington. The town was incorpo- 
rated by the legislature in 1779. 

The precise time when the church was gathered here was not 
known, though previously to the settlement of their first pastor, 
Rev. James Briggs, which was in 1779. He was a graduate of 
Yale college, in 175.5, and he began to preach in Cummington in 
1771. The town voted to give him 200 acres of good land, and 
£60 for settlement, to be estimated by rye, at 3s. 4d. per bushel, 
beef, 2d. a lb., and flax, 8d. a lb. Mr. Briggs was a very useful 
and respectable minister. He died in 1825 ; and the same year 
Rev. Roswell Hawkes was installed. 

Cummington is situated on a range of the Green mountains. 
A branch of the Westfield passes through the town, and affords 
good water power for mills and manufactories. There are two 
villages, the East and the West. The east village contains 
two cliurches, 1 Baptist and 1 Congregational, and about 30 
dwelling-houses ; about 18 miles from Northampton. In 1837, 
there were in this town 2 cotton mills; cotton spindles, 1,168; cot- 
ton consumed, 23,000 lbs. ; 124,000 yards of cotton goods were 
manufactured, valued at ^8,060. There were 4 woollen mills ; 
wool consumed, 18,000 lbs.; 74,000 yards of satinet were manu- 
factured, valued at $31,000; eleven males and twenty females 
were employed; capital invested, $14,000. Twenty thousand 
scythe-snaiths were manufactured, valued at $12,000. Palm-leaf 
hats manufactured, 7,200, valued at $1,500 ; value of leather 
tanned and curried, $45,445 93. There were 4,162 merino sheep, 
Avhich produced 12,486 lbs. of wool, valued at $7,491 60. 

It is stated that at the first settlement of the town deer were 
very plenty, and that a large number of them made their head- 
quarters on Deer hill, in this town ; but that they were extirpated 
by the hunters of those times. " It is stated that a large one was 
taken by some hunters, at a time when the snow in the woods 
would not bear him up, and one of the party, taking a fancy to 
ride him, he was tied on by the feet, and a bridle being put into 
the animal's mouth, he galloped off with his rider in full speed. 
On coming, however, to a cleared spot, the crust was so hard as to 
bear up both the deer and his rider ; so that, owing to the intracta- 
ble disposition of the beast, and the rapidity and eccentricity of 
his movements, his ride was any thing but agreeable. It is said 
that he was dismounted without any serious hurt." 

Wilham Cullen Bryant, one of our best American poets, is a 



318 KASTHAMPTON. 

native of this town. He is the son of Dr. Peter Bryant, and was 
born Nov. 3d, 1794, The following notice of Mr. Bryant is from 
Kettell's Specimens of American Poetry, vol. 3d. 

At ten years, he felt an inclination for poetry, and MTOte various pieces in verse, one 
of which was published in the Hampshire Gazette, at Northampton. In 1810, he 
entered Williams college, where he studied a year or two, and obtained a dismissal on 
liis own application : he turned his attention to the law. After completing the usual 
.studies, he was admitted to the bar at Plymouth, in 1S15. He removed to New York 
in 1820, and was one of the editors of the United States Review and Literary Gazette. 
In 1828, he became associate editor of the New York Evening Post. 

Mr. Bryant publi.shed, in 1808, at Boston, a volume of poems, with the title of 
" The Embargo, or Sketches of the Times." Although the author was but fourteen 
years of age, the book was so well received, that it was reprinted the next year. In 
1821, appeared the volume containing The Ages, Thanatopsis, and other pieces. He 
also furnished many of the poetical articles in the United States Literary Gazette. 

As a poet, he is entitled to rank with the most eminent among us for originality, 
and finished, chaste execution. He does not offend us by abruptness and inequality. 
He presents us with here and there a bold image, but the tenor of his poetry is even 
and sustained. He shows good judgment, and a careful study of the materials of his 
verse. He does not aim witVi an over-daring attempt at those lofty and bewildering 
flights, which too often fill the poet's pages with cloudy and confused representations. 
His delineations are clear and distinct, and without any indications of an endeavor to 
be startling and brilliant by strange metaphors, or unlicensed boldness of phraseology. 
His writings are marked by correct sentiment and propriety of diction. 

Mr. Bryant stands high in the general estimation, and his works have been the sub- 
ject of frequent notice. The pages of our periodical criticism show the manner in 
•which he is appreciated by the highest literary authorities. 



EASTHAMPTON. 

This town was originally included in the limits of Northampton. 
It was incorporated into a district in 1785, by the name of East 
Hampton, and in 1809 was incorporated into a town. The first 
minister, Rev. Payson Williston, was settled here in 1789, and 
resigned in 1833, and was succeeded the same year by Rev. William 
Bement. In 1837, there was in this town 1 woollen mill ; cloth 
manufactured, 15,000 yards, valued at $14,000. The value of 
lasting buttons manufactured in 1837 was $40,000; males em- 
ployed, 2; females, 125; capital invested, $12,000. Population, 
793. Distance, 5 miles from Northampton, and 90 from Boston. 
On the borders of this town lies Mount Tom, the highest land in 
the valley of Connecticut, and is the head of a ridge of mountains, 
to which it gives the name of Mount Tom range, and which ex- 
tends into the state of Connecticut, on the west bank of the river. 

The first settlement in this town was at the foot of Mount Tom, 
at a place called Paskhomuck ; this was about the year 1700. 
The following account of the attack of the Indians upon the 
settlement is from Williams' Historical Discourse respecting 
Northampton. " On the 13th of May, 1704, old style, the Indians 
attacked the village of Paskhomuck. The inhabitants had been 
settled there only two or three years, the town having granted 
them their home lots in 1699. The Indians had been to Merrimac 



EASTHAMPTON. 319 

river, but met with no success; they then directed their course 
toward Westfield ; but Westfield river was so high that they could 
not pass it. Some of the Indians had been at Northampton, in a 
friendly manner, the year before, and informed their companions 
that there was a small village at Paskhomuck, where they might 
get provisions, for they were almost famished, and intended, as they 
afterwards declared, to resign themselves up, if they could obtain 
no food otherwise. In the evening before the 13th of May, the 
Indians went upon Mount Tom, and observed the situation of the 
place. As tlie meadow was then covered with water, they sup- 
posed the village might be taken, and that no aid could come sea- 
sonably from tlie town, on account of the intervening flood. The 
village consisted only of five families : Samuel Ja)tcs\ Benonl 
Jones\ John Searls\ Deacon Benjamin /«nes'/and Moses Hutch- 
inson^ s. A little before day-light, the Indians attacked the village. 
Benonl Jones' house, which stood on the lot where Nathaniel 
Kentjield afterwards lived, was encompassed with pickets. The 
Indians procured flax and other combustibles, and set them on 
fire, which was communicated to the house. A young woman, 
named Patience Webb, was waked, and, looking out of the win- 
dow, was shot through the head. The people surrendered, and 
all the above families were killed or taken prisoners. Some of the 
prisoners were afterwards rescued by the people from the town. 
These, commanded by Capt. Taylor, went round by Pomroy's 
meadow, and met the Indians near the mountain, when a skir- 
mish ensued, in which Capt. Taylor was killed. Of the five fami- 
nes before mentioned, the Indians killed the following persons : 
Samuel Janes, and his wife and three children ; Benonl Jones, and 
two children, and the young woman before named ; John Searls, 
and three children ; Deacon Benjamin Janes, and four children ; 
and Moses Hutchinson, and one child. The wife of Benjamin 
Janes was taken to the top of Pomroy's mountain, and was there 
knocked in the head and scalped. Our people found her in that 
situation, and, perceiving that she Avas still alive, brought her 
home, and she recovered, and lived till she was more than eighty 
years old. The wife of Moses Hutchinson was taken prisoner, 
but soon made her escape. John Searls' wife was also taken, 
and severely wounded, but was afterwards rescued from the In- 
dians. Benoni Jones' wife, and Elisha, the son of John Searls, 
were taken prisoners to Canada. Ten Indians went to the lower 
farms, where there was then but one house, in which Captain 
Wright lived, at the place afterwards owned by Mr. Elias Lyman. 
Captain Wright refused to surrender, and shot one of the Indians, 
and broke his arm. They then attempted to burn the house, by 
shooting spiked arrows, dipped in brimstone, upon the roof; but a 
young man in the house, named Thomas Stebbins, wrapping him- 
self in a feather bed, drew water from the well, and put out the 
fire." * 

* " The season, at that time, was remarkably backward ; for, though so late in the 
year, being the 24th of May, according to the present style, the trees and bushes had 

43 



320 G R A N B Y . 

ENFIELD. 

This town was incorporated in 1814 ; previous to which it formed 
a part of the towns of Greenwich and Belchertown. The first 
minister was the Rev. Joshna Crosby, who was a chaplain in tlie 
Revolutionary war. The next pastor was Rev. Sumner G. Clapp, 
who was settled here in 1828. and resigned in 1837. Rev. John 
Whiton was the next minister. 

This town is watered by two branches of Swift river, a main 
branch of the Chicopee, and is an important stream for manufac- 
turing purposes. In 1837, there were two cotton mills ; the value 
of cotton goods manufactured was $8,000. Two woollen mills, 
five sets of machinery; 1-50,000 yards of cloth were manufactured, 
valued at .$100,000; twent^'^-five males and twenty-five females 
were employed. The value of boots and shoes manufactured 
was $11,729. Sixty thousand palm-leaf hats were manufactured, 
valued at .$12,000. Value of wool cards manufactured. $35,000 ; 
twelve males and six females were employed; capital invested, 
$20,000 ; value of cotton batting and wicking manufactured, 
$10,000. Population, 1,0.58. Distance from Northampton, 15 
miles, 5 from Ware, and 75 from Boston. 



GRANBY. 



This town, formerly the second parish in South Hadley, was 
incorporated as a town in 1768. The original Congregational 
church in the place was organized in 1762, and Rev. Simon Backus 
was settled as pastor the same year. He continued here till 1784. 
His successor, Rev. Benjamin Chapman, was settled in 1790, and 
died in 1804 ; he was succeeded by Rev. Elijah Gridley. In 1821, 
the church was divided, and two churches constituted, called the 
East and West churches. The division grew out of a difficulty 
respecting the location of a rneeting-honse. "At the time of divi- 
sion, the West church had 130 members, and the East 144. An 
attempt was made, in the spring of 1836, to unite the churches. 
By this effort, a portion of the West church, with their minister, 
were transferred to the East. A portion still remain. The West 
church has, perhaps, about 40 members. The East church has 
281 members." 

This town is watered on the north by a small stream, whicli 
originates in a pond in Belchertown, and runs westward along the 
foot of mount Holyoke, and passes into the Connecticut in South 
Hadley. On this stream there is a number of manufacturing 

not budtled ; and the year was so far advanced before the flood subsided from the 
meadow, that many persons doubled whether it was expedient lo plant their corn ; bnt 
notwithstanding, as there was no frost till late in the season, the crop of corn proved 
to be uncommonly good." 



GREENWICH. 321 

establishments. In 1837, there were two woollen mills; 20,200 
yards of cloth were manufactiu'ed, valued at ."^20,200 ; ten males 
and ten females were employed. There were 1,900 merino, and 
167 other kinds of sheep. Tlie average weight of fleece was 3 
lbs.; value of wool produced, j|3,670. Population, 922. Distance,^ 
9 miles from Northampton, 12 from Springfield, and 90 from Boston. 



GOSHEN 



This town, the smallest in the county of Hampshire, was in- 
corporated in 1781. Rev. Samuel Whitman was installed pastor 
in this place in 1788, and continued such till 1818. He was suc- 
ceeded, in 1821, by Rev. .Toel Wright. The next minister was 
Rev. Henry B. Holmes, who was settled in 1830; he continued for 
nearly three years, and was succeeded by Rev. Stephen Mason, 
who Avas installed in 1836. 

This township is on elevated land. In the central part of the 
town there are 2 churches, 1 for Congregationalists and 1 for 
Baptists. In 1837, there were in the town 710 Saxony, 2,115 
merino, and 223 other kinds of sheep. The value of wool pro- 
duced was $4,500. The value of broom-handles manufactured 
was $3,000 ; the value of sawed lumber was $5,000. Population, 
560. Distance, 12 miles from Northampton, and 105 from Boston. 



GREENWICH. 



This town was incorporated in 1754. It was originally settled 
by a colony'' from the north of Ireland, and many of their descend- 
ants still remain in the town. Rev. Pelatiah Webster, the first 
minister, was ordained here in 1749 ; he resigned in 1755. He 
was succeeded by Rev. Robert Cutler, who was installed in 1760, 
and died in 1786, aged 68. Mr. Cutler was succeeded by Rev. 
Joseph Blodget, who was settled here in 1786, and died in 1833. 
Rev. Joseph H. Patrick was settled here as colleague pastor in 
1830. 

This township is pleasantly situated on the east and west 
branches of Swift river, a branch of the Chicopee. In 1837, thern 
was one woollen mill ; 3,000 yards of cloth were manufactured, 
valued at $3,000. One scythe manufactory; scythes manufac- 
tured, 10,200, valued at $7,000; twelve hands were employed; 
capital invested, .$4,000. There were 30,000 palm-leaf hats manu- 
factured, valued at $4,375. Population, 842. Distance, 17 miles 
from Northampton, 26 from Worcester, and 75 from Boston, 



322 HAD LEY. 

HADLEY. 

John Webster and John Russell may be considered as the foun- 
ders of Hadley. Mr. Webster was a magistrate of Connecticut in 
1639, and was elected governor in 1656, and sustained that office 
a number of years ; Mr. Russell was a minister at Wethersfield, in 
Connecticut. About the year 1G60, there was quite an excitement 
and controversy in the colony of Connecticut, respecting the quali- 
fications of baptism, church-membership, &c. As the minds of 
the people could not be united on these subjects, many, in order to 
enjoy peace and harmony, thought it best to remove, and com- 
mence settlements in other places. "The original agreement, or 
association, for removal, is on record, dated at Hartford, April 18, 
1659. John Webster is the first signer, and about 30 names follow. 
Mr. Russell and his people signed another instrument, and his 
name, at the head of the list, is followed by about 30 of his con- 
gregation. Mr. Russell was installed the first minister of Hadley. 
He removed to this place in 1659, and Mr. Webster, with three 
others of his name, it is believed, the same year." It is stated that 
these emigrants purchased the whole territory now included in the 
towns of Hadley, Hatfield, Granby, and Amherst. The Rev. 
Isaac Chauncy succeeded Mr. Russell, in 1695. The next minis- 
ter was Rev. Chester Williams, who was ordained colleague pastor 
in 1740-1 ; he died 1753, and was succeeded by Rev. Samuel 
Hopkins, in 1775. Dr. Hopkins was succeeded by Rev. John 
Woodbridge, who was ordained colleague in 1810. Rev. John 
Brown, D. D., the next minister, was installed in 1831. Rev. 
Ebenezer Brown was installed pastor of the second church in 1835. 

Hadley is a fine agricultural town, and the meadows on the 
banks of the Connecticut river are some of the best in New Eng- 
land. Large quantities of broom-corn are annually raised, and 
the manufacture of brooms is an important branch of business in 
this town. The value of brooms manufactured in 1837 was 
$89,248. There were also 42,300 palm-leaf hats manufactured, 
valued at .f6,768. Connecticut river, between this town and 
Northampton, winds about in entirely opposite directions, and 
above Northampton village forms a kind of peninsula. On the 
isthmus, or neck, of this peninsula, the village of Hadley is situ- 
ated. It lies mostly on one street, a mile in length, running di- 
rectly north and south ; is sixteen rods in breadth ; is nearly a 
perfect level ; is covered, during the summer, with a rich verdure : 
abuts at both ends on the river ; and yields every where a delight- 
ful prospect. 

The following shows the appearance of the gorge between Mount 
Holyoke and ]\Iount Tom, as seea from the south end of the east 
street in Hadley, looking down the river. Mount Holyoke is seen 
in the distance, on the left ; the moimtain house is just discerni- 
ble on its summit, with the path leading up to it. Mount Tom is 
seen still farther to the south, on the right of the engraving. "In 
the beginning of April, (1676,) a number of inhabitants of Had- 



H A D L E Y . 



323 




View from the south end of Hadley Street. 



ley, who had gone down the river to Hoccamun^ under a small 
guard, for the purpose of tillage, ventured out some distance from 
the guard, and a part to the summit of Mount Holyoke, to view 
the surrounding country from the peak so noted at this day. A 
party of Indians rushed upon them, and killed two of their num- 
ber on the mount. Deacon Goodman, having proceeded some dis- 
tance in a different direction, to view the enclosures of his field, 
was also killed." 

Hadley is situated about 3 miles N. E. of Northampton ; it is 
connected with this town by a covered bridge, which was erected 
at a considerable expense, being 1,080 feet in length. It is 88 
miles W. of Boston, 3 N. W. of Mount Holyoke, and 6 N. of South 
Hadley. Population, 1,805. Incorporated a town in 1661, 

Hadley is celebrated as being the place of refuge for Goffe and 
Whalley, two of the judges of Charles I. of England, called by 
some " the regicides." Soon after the restoration of monarchy in 
England, thirty of the judges who condemned king Charles to 
death were apprehended and executed as traitors. Among those 
who made their escape, were Goffe and Whalley, who arrived at 
Boston in 1660. They were gentlemen of worth ; their appear- 
ance and mamiers were dignified, commanding universal respect; 
they were also highly esteemed by the colonists for their unfeigned 
piety. Whalley had been a lieutenant-general, and Goffe a ma- 
jor-general, in Cromwell's army. An order for their apprehension, 
from Charles II., reached New England soon after their arrival. 
The king's commissioners, eager to execute this order, compelled 
the judges to resort to the woods, caves, and other places of con- 
cealment ; and they would undoubtedly have been taken, had not 
the colonists secretly aided and assisted them in their conceal- 
ments. Sometimes they found a refuge in a kind of cave, on West 
Rock, a mountain, about two miles from New Haven, and at 
others in the cellars of the houses of their friends ; and once they 
were secreted under a bridge, near New Haven, while their pur- 
suers crossed it on horseback. 



324 H A D L E T . 

''At or about the time the pursuers came to New Haven, and perhaps a little before 
to prepare the minds of the people for their receptioa, the Rev. Mr. Davenport 
preached publicly from this text : Isaiah xvi. 3, 4. — ' Take counsel, execute judgment, 
make thy shadow as the night in the midst of the noonday ; hide the outcasts, betray not 
him that wandereth. Let mine outcasts divell with thee, Moab ; be thou a covert to them 
from the face of the spoiler.' This, doubtless, had its effect, and put the whole town 
upon their gua,rd, and united the people in caution and concealment. 

" To show the dexteritj- of the judges at fencing, the following siory is told : Tliat 
while at Boston, there appeared a fencing-master, who, on a stage erected for the pur- 
pose, walked it for several days, challenging and defying any one to play with him nt 
swords ; at length, one of the judges, disguised in a rustic dress, holding in one hand 
a cheese, wrapped in a napkin, for a shield, with a broomstick, whose mop he had 
besmeared with dirty puddle water as he passed along — thus equipped, he mounted 
the stage. The fencing-master railed at him for his impudence, asked him what busi- 
ness he had there, and bid hnn begone. The judge stood his ground, upon which the 
gladiator made a pass at him with his sword, to drive him oif — a rencounter ensued — 
the judge received the sword into the cheese, and held it until he drew the mop of the 
broom gently over his mouth, and gave the gentleman a pair of Avhiskers. He made 
another pass, and, plunging his sword a second time, it was caught and held in the 
cheese, whilst the mop was drawn gently over his eyes. At a third lunge, it was 
again caught and held in the cheese, until the judge had rubbed the broom all over 
his face. Upon this, the gentleman let fall his small sword, and took up the broad 
sword. The judge then said. ' Stop, sir ; hitherto, you see, I have only played with 
you, and not attempted to harm you ; but if you come at me now with the broad 
sword, know that I -will certainly take your life.' The firmness with which he spoke 
struck the master, who, desisting, exclaimed, ' Who can you be ? You must be either 
Gofie, Wlialley, or the devil ; for there was no other man in England that could beat 
me.' " — Stiles' Histonj of the Judges. 

After about three years and a half weary pilgrimage at New 
Haven and its vicinity, they, on October 13, 1664, set ont for 
Hadley. Travelling in the night only, probably with a gnide, 
they were undiscovered, and arrived at the house of Mr. Russell, 
the minister of Hadley, after a journey of about 100 miles. The 
house of this friendly clergyman, situated on the east side of the 
main street, near the center of the village, was of two stories, 
with a kitchen attached, and ingeniously fitted up for the recep- 
tion of the judges. The east chamber was assigned for their resi- 
dence, from which a door opened into a closet, back of the chim- 
ney, and a secret trap-door communicated Avith an under closet, 
from which Avas a private passage to the cellar, into which it was 
easy to descend, in case of a search. Here, unknown to the peo- 
ple of Hadley, excepting to a few confidants and the family of 
Mr. Russell, the judges remained fifteen or sixteen years. The 
dangerous secret of their concealment was known to Peter Tilton, 
Esq., whose residence stood on the same side of the street with 
Mr. Russell's, about half the distance towards the south end of 
the village ; and here, it is said, the judges occasionally resided. 
A Mr. Smith, who lived in the northern part of the village, is said 
to have occasionally admitted the exiles to his house. Mr. Tilton 
was frequently at Boston, being often a member of the general 
court from Hadley, and through him donations from their friends 
in England, and elsewhere, were received by the judges. During 
his residence in Hadley, Goffe held a correspondence with his wife 
in England, under a fictitious name. By one of the letters, dated 
April 2, 1679, it appears that Whalley had died some time prcvi- 



H A D L E Y . 325 

ously, at Mr. Russell's. He was buried in a sort of tomb, formed 
of mason work, and covered with flags of hewn stone, just with- 
out the cellar wall of Mr. Russell's house ; where his bones were 
found by Mr. Gay lord, who built a house on the spot where Mr. 
Russell's was standing, as late as 1794. Soon after the death of 
Whalley, Goffe left Hadley, and travelled to the southward ; after 
which, no certain information of him can be obtained. There is 
a tradition, however, that he also died at Hadley, and was buried 
in the garden or near the house of Mr. Tilton. Not long after 
the arrival of the two judges at Hadley, Col. .Tohn Dixwell, an- 
other of the judges, joined them at Mr. Russell's, and resided 
there for a while ; he afterward settled down at New Haven, Con., 
under the assumed name of Davids, where he died in 1688-9. It 
has been conjectured by President Stiles, and others, that the re- 
mains of both Gofle and Whalley were interred near those of 
Dixwell's, there being monuments near that of Dixwell's inscribed 
with the initials of their names. 

During Philip's war, in 1676, Hadley was attacked on the 
morning of tlie 12th of June, by about seven liundred Indians. 
" In the preceding night, they approached the town, laid an am- 
buscade at the southern extremity, and advanced the main body 
towards the other, and at day-light the attack was commenced with 
great spirit ; but the English, Uirning out, received them at the 
palisades. The Indians gained possession of a house at the north 
end of the street, and fired a barn, but were in a short time driven 
back with loss. The attack was renewed on other points, and 
the Indians, though warmly opposed, appeared determined on car- 
rying the place ; but a discharge of a piece of ordnance checked 
their fury, and their ambuscade failing of their object, which was 
to attack the people who might be driven from the village, they 
drew ofl". Major Talcott, at Northamptou, hearing the attack, 
hurried on, passed the river, and, joining the Hadley forces, pre- 
cipitated the Indians into the woods. Only two or three men were 
lost by the English ; the enemy's was not ascertained." " When 
the people were in great consternation, and rallying to oppose the 
Indians, a man of venerable aspect, diflering from the inhabitants 
in his apparel, appeared, and, assuming command, arrayed them 
in the best manner for defence, evincing much knowledge of mili- 
tary tactics, and by his advice and example continued to animate 
the men throughout the attack. When the Indians drcAV off, the 
stranger disappeared, and nothing further was heard of him. 
Who the deliverer was, none could inform or conjecture, but by 
supposing, as was common at that day, that Hadley liad been 
saved by its guardian angel. It will be recollected that at this 
time the two judges, Whalley and Goffe, were secreted in the village, 
at the house of the Rev. Mr. Russell. The supposed angel, then, 
was no other than Gen. Goffe, who, seeing the village in imminent 
danger, put all at risk, left his concealment, mixed with the inha- 
bitants, and animated them to a vigorous defence. Wlialley, being 



325 HATFIELD. 

then superannuated, probably remained in his sechided cham- 
ber." * 

The following inscriptions were copied from monuments in the 
grave-yard in this town : — 

Reverend Rvssells remains, who first gathered, and for 33 years faithfvlly 

GOVERNED THE FLOCK OF ChRIST IN HaDLEY, TIL THE CHEIF ShEPHERD SVDDENLY CALLED 
HIM OFF TO RECIEVE HIS REWARD, IN THE 66 YEAR OF HIS AGE, DeCEJLBER 10, 1692. 



Rebeckah, made by God a meit help to Mr. Iohn Rvssell, and fellow labovk- 
ER IN Christ's work ; a wise, vertvovs, piovs mother in Israel lyes here, in fvll 
assvrance of a joyfvl Resverection. She died in the 57 year of her age, No- 
vember 21, 1688. 



To the memory of John Webster, Esq., one of the first settlers of Hartford, in Con- 
necticut, who was many years a magistrate or assistant, 6c afterwards Deputy Gover- 
nor of that Colony, 6c in 1659, with three sons, Robert, William 6c Thomas, associ- 
ated with others in the purchase and settlement of Hadley, where he died in 1665. f 
This monument is erected, in 1818, by his descendant, Noah Webster, of Amherst. 



In memory of Mrs. Sarah Marsh, wife of Ebenezer Marsh, who departed this life 
January y" 31, 1794, in the 66 year of her age. 

Prudence is an eveness of soul, 
A steady temper, which no cares controul, 
No passions rutHe, no desires inflame, 
Still constant to itself, 6c still the same. 



Here lies the body of the rev. Isaac Chauncy, pastor of the first church in Hadley, 
who was of a truly peaceable and catholic spirit, a good scholar, an eloquent orator, 
an able divine, a lively, pathetic preacher, a burning and shining light in this candle- 
stick, an exemplary christian, an Israelite indeed, in whom was no guile. He de- 
parted this life 2 May, A. D. 1745, a^tat. 74. 



HATFIELD. 



Hatfield is one of the oldest settlements in the county, and was 
originally included within the bounds of Hadley. It was incorpo- 
rated in 1670. The Rev. Hope Atherton appears to have been the 
first minister. Mr. Atherton died in 1679, aged 33. He was succeed- 
ed by Rev. Nathaniel Chauncy. Mr. Chauncy died in 1685, and 
was succeeded by Rev. William Williams, who died in 1741. Rev. 
Timothy Woodbridge was installed here in 1740, and was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Joseph Lyman, D. D., in 1772. Dr. Lyman died 
in 1828, and was succeeded by Rev. .Tared B. Waterbury, in 1827, 
who was succeeded by Rev. Levi Pratt, in 1830. This is a fine 
agricultural town, and noted for its raising fine beef cattle. A 
part of the township is a pine plain, a part intervals of the first 
quality, and the remaining part valuable upland. The principal 
village lies on an interval opposite the north end of Hadley, at the 
distance of one mile and a half. There is one Congregational 
church. Population, 937. Distance, 5 miles north of Northamp- 

* Hoyt's Indian Wars, p. 135. 

f This is an error ; it should be 1661. 



HATFIELD. 327 

ton, and 95 west of Boston. The value of brooms manufactured 
in this town in 1837 was .4^28,600. 

Hatfield, hke other ancient towns in this vicinity, has passed 
through many scenes of distress and danger. On October 19, 1675, 
in Phihp's war, between seven and eight hundred Indians ap- 
proached the outposts of Hatfield, flushed with their recent suc- 
cesses in Deerfield and other places. Having cut off several par- 
ties who were scouring the woods in the vicinity, they made a 
rapid attack on the town in various directions. Fortunately, two 
companies, under the command of Captains Mosely and Poole, 
were at this time in the village. While Poole bravely defended 
one extremity, Mosely with no less resolution defended the center, 
while Captain Appleton, arriving with his company from Hadley, 
protected the other extremity. After a severe contest, the Indians 
were repulsed at every point ; many were driven across Mill river 
in confusion, and in their hurry, attempting to carry off their dead 
and wounded, lost many of their guns in the river. They how- 
ever found time to fire several buildings, which were consumed, 
and to drive off a number of cattle and sheep. Their retreat being 
made at the dusk of the evening, their loss could not be ascer- 
tained ; the loss of the English is not given. Captain Appleton 
had a narrow escape, a ball passing through the hair of his head ; 
his sergeant at his side was mortally wounded. On the 30th of 
May, 1676, a body of 6 or 700 Indians fell upon Hatfield again, and 
burnt about a dozen houses and barns in the skirts of the town. 
One party attacked the fortified houses to which the inhabitants 
had fled, the other drove away the cattle belonging to the inha- 
bitants. In the mean time twenty-five young men from Hadley 
crossed the river, and with invmcible resolution broke their way 
through the enemy, and assisted in repelling the savages. 

In the expedition of Captain Turner and others, in 1676, against 
the Indians at the falls in the vicinity of Greenfield, Rev. Mr. 
Atherton of Hatfield accompanied him as chaplain. In the con- 
fusion of the retreat from Greenfield, he was separated from the 
troops, and became lost in the woods. After wandering at random 
and despairing of finding his way home, he came to the resolution 
of delivering up himself to the Indians. Approaching a party of 
the savages, he by signs offered to surrender himself a prisoner ; 
but, as unaccountable as it may appear, they refused to receive 
him. When he approached and called to them, they fled from his 
presence, and appeared fearful of his approach, and Mr. Atherton 
was left to his fate. Upon this he determined if possible to find 
the river and follow it to Hatfield. This he effected, after a wan- 
dering march of several days of excessive fatigue and hunger, and 
arrived in safety among his people. The Indians, probably, know- 
ing Mr. Atherton's profession by his dress, and having some 
knowledge of the sacredness of his office, considered him as a 
sacred person, whom they dare not injure. 

On the 19th of September, 1677, about fifty Indians, who had 
descended Connecticut river, fell upon Hatfield, as the people were 

44 



328 MIDDLE FIELD. 

raising a house, killed and captured about twenty, including 
amoncr the latter several women and children. Among the pri- 
soners were the wives of Benjamin Wait and Stephen Jennings. 
Havino- received authority trom the government to ransom the 
captives, they commenced their hazardous journey on the 24th of 
October, and followed the enemy through New York by the lakes 
into Canada. They returned, after an absence of eight months, 
with nineteen of the prisoners. 

On the 22d of August, 178G, a convention of delegates from fifty 
towns in Hampshire county assembled in Hatfield, and passed 
certain seditious resolutions. " This was the first important blow 
struck against the government, in Shays' insurrection; it was soon 
followed up by attempts, some of which were successful, to stop the 
proceedings of courts in various counties." The convention con- 
tinued for three days. This body voted that the essential branches 
of the three legislative departments of the state were grievous; 
"material proceedings upon national concerns erroneous; obvious 
measures for paying the debt blindly overlooked ; public moneys 
misappropriated, and the constitution itself intolerably defective. 
The directions for transmitting these proceedings to the convention 
of Worcester, and to the county of Berkshire, displayed a design 
in this assembly of doing more than passively representing their own 
grievances."— -i'V/ino/f'5 Hist. Insurrection. 

The following inscriptions are from monuments in this town : 

In memory of the Hon. Israel Williams, Esquire, who departed this life 10 Janu- 
ary. 1788, in the 79 year of his age. High and low, rich and poor, are death's equal 
prey, and no valuable distinction survives his resistless attack, but that,' which enno- 
bles an angel, the love of God. 

All on earth is shadow, all beyond 

Is substance ; the reverse is folly's creed. 

How solid all, where change shall be no more ! 



To the memory of Mr. Jacob Walker, who, respected by the brave, beloved by his 
country's friends, dear to his relations, while manfully defending the laws and liberties 
of the commonwealth, nobly fell by the impious hand of treason and rebellion, on the 
17 of February, 1787, in tlie 32 year of his age. Citizen passing, drop a tear, and 
learn to imitate the brave. 



MIDDLEFIELD 



This town, which is situated on a range of the Green moun- 
tains, was incorporated in 1783. Rev. Jonathan Nash, the first 
minister, was settled in 1792, and died in 1834. His successor. 
Rev. Samuel Parker, was installed pastor in 1832, and resigned in 
1833. He was succeeded by Rev. John H. Bisbee, in 1834. Besides 
the Congregational, there is a Baptist church in the central part 
of the town. A Methodist church is situated in the south-eastern 
section of the town. 

This town is watered by two branches of Westfield river. The 
stream called Middle river divides this town from Worthington. 




5 2; 



NORTHAMPTON. 329 

Soap-stone and an extensive bed of serpentine, or rock of various 
colors, are found in the town. In 1837, there were two woollen 
mills, 4 sets of woollen machinery ; cloth manufactured, 26,000 
yards, valued at $54,000; males employed, 26; females, 24; capi- 
tal invested, $36,000. There were 9,724 Saxony sheep; wool 
produced, 26,741 lbs. ; average weight of fleece, two and three- 
fourths lbs. ; value of wool, $17,381 65; capital invested, $120,945. 
Population, 7]0. Distance, 24 miles from Northampton, 17 from 
Pittsfield, and 110 from Boston. 



NORTHAMPTON. 

The Indian name of Northampton was Nonotuck. It formerly 
included Southampton, Westhampton, and Easthampton, since 
incorporated as towns. The fertility, extent, and beauty of the 
fine intervals in this region attracted the attention of settlers at an 
early period. The township was purchased in 1653, and convey- 
ed to John Pynchon, Esq., for the planters, by WawhilhnDa, Ne- 
nessahalant^ Nassicohee, and four others, (one of whom was a 
married woman,) styled " the chief and proper owners," for one 
hundred fathom of wampum by tale, and ten coats, besides some 
small gifts, in hand paid to the sachems and owners, and also for 
ploughing up sixteen acres of land on the east side of Qvonnccficiit 
river the ensuing summer. These "all bargained for themselves, 
and the other owners by their consent." The original planters 
were twenty-one in number, and the legal grant was made to them 
in 1654, by " John Pynchon, Elizur Holyoke, and Samuel Chapin, 
commissioners for laying out Nonotuck, by the general court," and 
the settlement "of the town commenced the same year.=^ In 1656, 
"towns men" (or selectmen) were chosen, and in 1657 three 
commissioners were chosen at a town meeting '• as a court to end 
small causes." The same year, the town employed an agent "to 
obtain a minister, and to devise means to prevent the excess of 
liquors and cider from coming to the town." In 1662, at the for- 
mation of the county of Hampshire, consisting of the three towns 
of Springfield, Northampton, and Hadley, Northampton was made 
a half shire, and in 1794 was made the county town. 

The village of Northampton is situated about a mile from Con- 
necticut river, a little elevated above the surrounding meadows. 
These meadows are some of the best land in New England, and 
are in the highest state of cultivation. The viliase, although very 
irregularly laid out,t is one of the most beautiful and best built 

* There is a tradition that one English family came to Northampton in 1652, and 
lived on land which is east of what is now called Hawley street. 

fit has been said that they [the streets] were laid out by the cows, and that 
wherever these animals, when going to feed in the forests, made their paths, the inha- 
bitants located their streets. The probability is. that the first planters, being both in- 
clined and obliged to buiJd near to each other, placed their houses wherever the ground 



330 



N R T H A 31 P T O X 



villages in New England. Situated in the delightful valley of the 
Connecticut, surrounded with beautiful and variegated prospects 
on every side, with the magnificent front of Mount Hoiyoke, rising 
to the height of 830 feet, on the opposite side of the river, the scenery 
of this place presents a specimen of the -'sublime and beautiful." 
A fine stream passes tlie center of the town, possessing a good water 
power, on which are mills and factories of various kinds. This 
place has considerable river and inland commerce, which will pro- 
bably be increased by the New Haven and Northampton canal, 
which terminates a little north of the village. 




Eastern viejv of Ruimd HiU, Northainjptork. 



The above is a representation of Round Hill, an elevation which 
rises immediately back of the court-house and the central part of 
the village. It is very regular in its form, and the summit is 
crowned by a noble grove. A number of elegant residences stand 
on the side of this elevation, overlooking the village ; and from this 
spot there is a fine prospect of Mount Hoiyoke and the delightful 
valley of the Connecticut. The view from which the above 
engraving was made, Avas taken standing on< the western side of 
the first Congregational church. ' The building appearing on the 
left is the Toron School ; the Gothic structure on the right is the 
young Ladles^ Seminary. Round Hill is seen beyond. There are 
5 churches, 3 Congregational, (1 of which is Unitarian,) 1 Episco- 
pal, and 1 Baptist. There is 1 bank, the "Northampton Bank," 
with a capita] of .$200,000.. Population, 3,576. Northampton 
is 91 miles W. of Boston, 72 E. of Albany, 40 N. of Hartford, 22 
S. of Greenfield. 17 northerly of ^5pringfield, and 376 from Wash- 
ington. In 1837, there were 3 woollen mills, 7 sets of machine- 
ry ; 70,000 yards of cloth were mahufactnred, valued at $230,000 ; 



was sufficiently dry to furnish convenient building spots." — Dr. Dtvight's Travels, vol- 
ume i., page 328. 



NORTHAMPTON. 331 

males employed, 64 ; females, 60 ; capital invested, $100,000. 
There are 2 silk manufactories ; value of ribbon and sewing silk 
manufactured, $40,000; males employed, 20 ; females, 40; capi- 
tal invested, $100,000. There is a paper-mill, an air and cupola 
furnace, and other manufactories of various kinds. 

The inhabitants of Northampton ap*peared to have lived in great 
harmony with the Indians. In 1664, the Indians requested leave 
of the people to build themselves a fort within the town ; leave was 
granted, and their fort was erected perhaps about thirty rods from 
the most populous street. The conditions on which leave was 
obtained for building their fort were, — that they should not Avork 
or game within the town on the Sabbath, nor powaw here or any 
where else ; they should not get liquor, nor cider, nor get drunk ; 
nor admit Indians from without the town ; nor break down fences, 
&c. "The Indians," says Dr. Dvvight, "were always considered 
as having a right to dwell and to hunt within the lands which 
they had sold." Although the Indians lived in such close contact 
with the whites, there is not even a traditionary story of any quar- 
rel between them and the people of Northampton. But after Phil- 
ip's war commenced, the inhabitants were in continual danger. 
In 1675, a guard was kept continually ; several of the inhabitants 
had their houses burnt. In King William's war, in 1690, a forti- 
fication was ordered to be run quite round the town. In 1704 a 
body of French and Indians, numbering, it is supposed, about five 
hundred, invaded the town, but it appears that the inhabitants 
were so vigilant and well fortified, that they made no serious at- 
tempt upon the place. It appears that one house was fortified in 
every little neighborhood, so that all the inhabitants might have a 
place of refuge near, in case of an attack. " These fortifications 
must have been expensive. Those Avhich were erected around the 
town, were palisadoes set up in the earth, thrown out of a trench; 
and must from their great extent have involved an expense scarce- 
ly supportable." The first road to Windsor, their only passage to 
market, was laid in 1664. The first bridge over Manhan river, a 
mill stream three miles south of their church, was voted in 1668. 
At the same time, they paid their taxes at Charlestown first, and 
afterwards at Boston, in wheat. This was conveyed to Hartford 
in carts and wagons, and there shipped for Boston. There is one 
account, only, of their expense in a transaction of this nature re- X 
corded. In this instance, they were obliged to pay one third of 
the cargo for the transportation from Hartford to Charlestown. 

During Shays' insurrection in 1786, after the insurgents had 
concerted their measures at Hatfield, they assembled to the num- 
ber of about 1,500, imder arms, at Northampton, took possession 
of the court-house, and effectually prevented, the sitting of the 
courts as prescribed by law. Upon this violence being committed, 
the governor issued his proclamation in a feehng and spirited man- 
ner upon the officers and citizens, to suppress such treasonable 
proceedings, but such was the state of things in the common- 



332 NORTHAMPTON. 

wealth at this time, that the ill-disposed paid but little attention 
to this timely measure. 

The first minister of Northampton was Eleazer Mather, son of 
the Rev. Richard Mather, of Dorchester. He was ordained in 
1661, and died in 1669, aged 32. Mr. Mather's health having de- 
clined. Rev. Joseph Elliot, in 1662, was invited to settle in the 
ministry here ; he was the second son of Rev. John Elliot, of Rox- 
bury, the celebrated apostle to the Indians ; he afterwards settled 
at Guilford, Con. Rev. Solomon Stoddard was the next minister, 
was ordained in 1672, and died in 1729. His successor was Jona- 
than Edwards, the celebrated divine, who was invited in 1726 to 
assist Mr. Stoddard in the ministry. Mr. Stoddard " possessed 
probably more intiuence than any other clergyman in the province, 
during a period of thirty years. Here he was regarded with a 
reverence which will scarcely be rendered to any other man. The 
very savages are said to have felt towards him a peculiar awe. 
Once, when riding from Northampton to Hatfield, and pa.ssing a 
place called Dewey's Hole, an ambush of savages lined the road. 
It is said that a Frenchman, directing his gun towards him, was 
Avarned by one of the Indians, who some time before had been 
among the English, not to fire, because ' that man Avas English- 
man'^s GofV A similar adventure is said to have befallen him 
while meditating in an orchard, immediately behind the church in 
Deerfield, a sermon he was about to preach. These stories, told 
in Canada, are traditionally asserted to have been brought back 
by English captives. It was customary for the Canadian savages, 
after they returned from their excursions, to report their adven- 
tures, by way of triumph, to the captives taken in the English 
colonies. Among the works which Mr. Stoddard published, his 
Guide to Christ, and his Safety of appearing in the Righteousness 
of Christ, have ever been held in respectful estimation." " He 
published the Doctrine of Instituted Churches, London, 4to, 1700, 
in which he advanced some sentiments that were not very well 
received in this country, such as the following: — that the Lord's 
table should be accessible to all persons not immoral in their lives, 
that the power of receiving and censuring members is vested ex- 
•ilusively in the elders of the church, and that synods have power 
to excommunicate and deliver from church censures." 

The Rev. Jonathan Edwards continued in Northampton more 
than twenty-three years, till he was dismissed in 1750. The 
causes which led to his dismissal were his endeavors to enforce 
Avhat he considered to be his duty in regard to the discipline of the 
church, and likewise the opposition he made to the sentiment 
supported by his colleague and grandfather, Rev. Mr. Stoddard, 
that unconverted persons ought to be allowed to come to the sacra- 
ment of the Lord's supper. In 1751, he was settled at Stockbridge 
as missionary to the Indians, where he continued six years, preach- 
ing to the Indians and white people. Here he found leisure to 
prosecute his theological and metaphysical studies, and produced 
those works which will probably hand down his name to the latest 



NORTHAMPTON. 333 

posterity. In January, 1758, he reluctantly accepted the presiden- 
cy of the college at Princeton, New Jersey. The small-pox pre- 
vailing. President Edwards was induced to be inoculated, which 
was the cause of his death, March 22, 17.58, in the 55th year of 
his age. 

David Brainerd, the celebrated missionary, died at the house of 
Jonathan Edwards, in this place, Oct. 9, 1747, in the thirtieth 
year of his age. His life was written by Mr. Edwards. " His life 
and diary," says a celebrated English divine, "exhibits a perfect 
pattern of the qualities which should distinguish the instructor of 
rude and barbarous tribes ; the most invincible patience and self- 
denial, the profoundest humility, exquisite prudence, indefatigable 
industry, and such a devotedness to God, or rather such an absorp- 
tion of the whole soul in zeal for the divine glory and the salvation 
of men, as is scarcely paralleled since the age of the apostles. His 
constitutional melancholy, though it must be regarded as a physi- 
cal imperfection, imparts an additional interest and pathos to the 
narrative, since we more easily sympathize with the emotion of 
sorrow than of joy. There is a monotony in his feelings, it must 
be acknowledged, and consequently a frequent repetition of the 
same ideas, which will disgust a fastidious or superficial reader, 
but it is the 'monotony oi snbUmityy 

[From the Massachusetts Spy, June 25, 1806.] 

" S'pringfmd, June 10. 

" Execution OF Daley amii Hali.tgan. — On Thursday last, pursuant to their sen- 
tence, Dominick Daley and James Halliganwere executed at Northampton. At half 
past 10 o'clock, they were conducted to the meetins;-house, by the high sheriff and his 
deputies, with a guard, composed of a company of artillery and a detachment of the 
militia. An appropriate and eloquent discourse was there delivered to a very crowded 
auditory, by the Rev. Mr. Cheverus, of Boston, from 1 John, 3. 15 : ' Whoever hatetli 
his brother is a murderer.^ After the sermon, the criminals were constantly attended 
by Mr. Cheverus, with whom, during the greater part of ihe time, they apjieared to be 
engasred in prayer. At 3 o'clock, sentence was executed by Major-General Mattoon, 
sheriff of the county. Notwithstanding their protestations of innocence, in which they 
persisted in to the last, it is believed that of the 15,000 persons supposed to be present, 
scarcely one had a doubt of their guilt. Daley and Halligan were natives of Ireland. 
Daley was about 31 years of age, and has been in this country two years ; he has left 
a wife, a mother, and brother in Bciston. Halligan was about 27 years of age ; and 
we believe has no connections in this country, in which he has resided for four j'ears." 

The following inscriptions are copied from monuments in the 
Northampton grave-yard : 

Here is inter'd the body of the Rev''- ]\Ir. Solomon Stoddard, A. M., sometime Fellow 
of Harvard College, pastor of y" church in Northampton, N. E., for near 60 years ; who 
departed this life Feb. 11, 1729, and in flie 86 3'ear of his age. A man of God, an able 
mmister of the N. Testament ; singularly qualified for that sacred office, and faithful 
therein, sealed by the H : Spirit in numerous converts to Christ, by his solid, powerful, 
and most searching ministry. A light to the churches in general, a peculiar blessing 
to this ; eminent fur the holiness of his life, as remarkable for his peace at death. 

Sacred to the memory of the Rev^- David Brainard, a faithful 6c laborious missiona- 
ry to the Stockbridge, the Delaware, & the Susquehannah tribes of Indians, who died in 
this town, Oct. 10, 1747, aged 30. 

A tabular monument of free-stone is placed over the grave of 

45 



334 NORWICH. 

this celebrated missionary. The inscription at first w is on an ni- 
let of schistus, which many years since was destroyed by the frost, 
and the inscription at present is said to be unknown. An inlet of 
marble with the above inscription now supplies the place of the 
former one in the horizontal slab over his remains. 

Here lies the Rev'^- John Hooker, who died of y<= small pox, Feb. B'^. 1777, in the 
49"' year of his age &c 23' of his ministry. In him an excellent & highly cultivated 
Genius, a graceful elocution, engaging manners, & the temper of the Gospel united to 
form an able and faithful minister, & to render him examplary and beloved in all the 
relations of life. The afiectionate people of his charge, in remembrance of his many 
amiable &c christian virtues, erected this monument to his memory. 



Solomon Williams, born July 25, 1752, lived as a pastor of the church of Christ in 
Northampton 56 years and 5 months. His spirit ascended in sweet peace to the upper 
Sanctuary on the morning of the Sabbath, Nov. 9, 1834. 

In memory of Caleb Strong, late Governor of Massachusetts, who, after a life emi- 
nent for piety and devotion to the public service, died November 7'h, 1819, in the 15^ 
year of his age. 

John Breck, Esq., died Feb. 26, 1827, iEt. 56 years. 

Great day of dread decision and despair, 
At thought of thee, each sublunary wish 
Lets go its eager grasp, and drops the world, 
And catches at each reed of hope in heaven. 



In memory of Rev. Henry Lyman, son of Theodore and Susan W. Lyman, a mis- 
sionary of the American Board, who, with his associate, Rev. Samuel Munson, suffered 
a violent death from the Battahs, in Sumatra, June 28i''' 1834, aged 24. 

We are more than conquerors. 



NORWICH. 



This town was incorporated in 1793. The Rev. Stephen Tracy, 
of Norwich, Con., was the first Congregational minister of this 
town; he was settled here in 1781, and resigned in 1799. His 
successor was Rev. Benjamin R. Woodbridge, who settled here in 
1799, and resigned in 1831. Rev. Samuel Russell, the next minis- 
ter, was installed in 1832, and resigned the next year. His suc- 
cessor was Rev. Alvah C. Page. 

This is a hilly township ; a northern branch of Westfield river 
passes through the town, from north to south. In 1837, there was 
in the town one small woollen mill and an axe manufactory, in 
which were manufactured 3,000 axes, which were valued at !|4,250; 
hands employed, five. Population, 714. Distance, 12 miles from 
Northampton, and 108 from Boston. The following is the inscrip- 
tion on the monument of the Rev. Mr. Russell, one of the ministers 
of this place: 

In memory of the Rev. Samuel Russell, a man who in doctrine was sound, in his 
labors diligent and faithful, in his life simple and irreproachable, in his piety distin- 
guished, in his death blessed. Why should we say more ? He sought and found the 
house of his Father, Jan. 27, 1835, JE. 35. 



PLAINFIELD. 335 

PELHAM. 

This town was originally a section of what was termed the 
Equivalent Lands, granted by Massachusetts to Connecticut. The 
tract comprising the town was sold to Col. Stoddard of Northamp- 
ton, and was denominated StoddarcVs Town. The township was 
afterwards sold by Col. Stoddard to a number of settlers from 
Worcester, and was incorporated into a town by the name of Pel- 
ham in 1742. The ancestors of the first settlers of this town were 
Presbyterian emigrants from the north of Ireland. The first minis- 
ter of the place was Rev. Robert Abercrombie, from Edinburgh, 
Scotland ; he was ordained here in 1744. His successors Avere 
Richard C. Graham, Nathaniel Merrill, Thomas F. Oliver, Elijah 
Brainerd, Winthrop Baily. Mr. Daily died in 1835, in Greenfield. 
In the second church Matthias Cazier and Sebastian C. Cabot have 
been ministers. 

The soil of this township is good, but the situation is elevated 
and the surface is uneven. Swift river, a principal branch of the 
Chicopee, waters the eastern border, and Fort river, which falls 
into the Connecticut, waters the western part of this town. In 
1837 there were 18,000 palm-leaf hats manufactured in this town, 
valued at .f3,000. Population, 957. Distance, 13 miles from 
Northampton, 7 from Amherst, and 80 from Boston. 



PLAINFIELD. 

This town was formerly included in Cummington, and with that 
town was sold by Col. John Cummings, of Concord, in 1762. The 
first meeting of the proprietors was held at Concord, in December 
of that year. Many of the first settlers came from Bridgewater and 
Abington. Plainfield was incorporated a district of Cummington 
in 1785, and in 1807 was incorporated a distinct town. 

A church of 14 members was organized here in 17S0 ; but they 
had no settled minister till 1792, when Rev. Moses Hallock, a na- 
tive of Long Island, was settled with them. He continued in the 
pastoral office till 1831, in which year he was succeeded by Rev. 
David Kimball. Few men have been more useful than Mr. Hal- 
lock ; none more humble, holy, consistent, and devoted to the 
proper work of man. He had no briUiancy, but was strongly 
characterized in his whole deportment by kindness, sincerity, 
meekness, and a deep and heartfelt interest in the welfare of all. 
He died in 1837. The meeting-house of this society was built in 
1792. A Baptist society was formed in the eastern part of the town 
in 1833. The church was organized in .Tune, by an ecclesiastical 
council. Elder David Wright, of Cummington, acting as moderator. 

This township lies on the eastern side of the Green mountain 
range, and, as might be expected, the surface is undulating, and in 
many parts rough and broken, less so, however, than that of the 



336 PLAINFIELD. 

adjoining towns. Indeed, the summit of East Hill, on which is 
the principal village, may be considered as level through nearly 
the whole breadth of the town. The soil is good and strong, and 
well adapted for grass. The township is exceedingly well supplied 
with springs and rivulets. There are no large streams in the town. 
Mill Brook is the largest. There are two ponds, both in the north- 
west part of the town : the North Pond, which is about a mile 
long and half a mile wide, and the Crooked Pond, so called from 
its figure. The scenery around these ponds is wild, and may 
perhaps be said to partake of the gloomy ; for here, for the most 
part, the forests have never been touched, and nature, in all her 
wildness, 

Still on her bosom wears the enamel'd vest, 
That bloomed and budded on her youthful breast. 

The waters of the North Pond empty into the Deerfield river at 
Charlemont, while those of the Crooked Pond empty into the South 
Pond in Windsor, which is the head of one of the branches of 
Westfield river. The North Pond is dotted with islands, and is a 
favorite place of resort for anglers and parties of pleasure ; and 
both have peculiar attractions to the botanist, as some very rare 
and interesting aquatic plants are found on the shores and in the 
water. In 1837, there were two woollen mills; 20,000 yards of 
cloth were manufactured, valued at .'tjlSjOOO; there were 238 
Saxony, 1,775 merino, and 1,7,59 other kinds of sheep; the value 
of wool produced was ^5,379 36 ; there were manufactured 48,000 
palm-leaf hats, valued at ,$8,900. Population, 865. Distance, 20 
miles N. W. of Northampton, and 110 W. by N. of Boston. 

" Rev. .Tames Richards and Rev. William Richards, American 
missionaries, v/ere of this town, and sons of Dea. James Richards. 
They were both graduates of Williams college. The first mention- 
ed sailed, in 1815, for the East Indies, where he arrived after a 
prosperous voyage of 5 months. The period of his labors was 
short, for his constitution soon sunk by undue exposure to the in- 
fluence of a tropical climate. He died at TiUipaly, in Ceylon, 
Aug. 3, 1822, aged 38 years. Rev. William Richards was ordain- 
ed missionary at New Haven, Sept. 12, 1822, from which place he 
sailed, with his wife, for the Sandwich Islands, Nov. 19, of the 
same year, where he arrived in April, 1823. His labors appear to 
have been very acceptable and useful. He resides in the village 
of Lahaina, (in the island of Maui,) one of the most delightful 
xpots in the Sandwich Islands." 

The following account of the Mountain Miller was taken from 
the History of Plainfield, by Dr. Jacob Porter, page 40. 

"Deacon Joseph Beals, who will be known through the future 
ages of the church as the Mountain Miller, was a native of Bridge- 
water, in this state, and removed with his family to this place in 
1779. Here, in 1789, a year of great scarcity, he met with a 
severe affliction, the loss of his house and nearly all his provisions 
by a fire. Previous to this, he had been depending on his exter- 



PEESCOTT. 337 

nal morality for salvation, considering a change as unnecessary. 
He now found that he could not truly submit to the will of God, 
and betook himself to the seeking of his salvation in earnest. After 
a season of distressing anxiety, the Savior was pleased to reveal 
himself to his soul as ' the chief among ten thousand and alto- 
gether lovely,' and he suddenly broke forth in new strains of de- 
votion, penitence, and praise, for redeeming love. From this time 
he consecrated himself to the service of his Savior, and became 
distinguished for his meekness and humility, his life of prayer, his 
exemplary deportment at all times and in all places, particularly 
in the house of God, his abiding sense of the uncertainty of life 
and the retributions of eternity, his preciousness to the awakened 
sinner, his care for the spiritual welfare of his family and of all 
with whom the providence of God brought him in contact, his 
perseverance in doing good, and his uniform and consistent piety. 
' His conversation would never tire, and it seemed that he was ne- 
ver tired of religious conversation.' He died after a short sickness, 
July 20, 1813. 'His body,' says the writer of the tract, 'was in- 
terred in the grave-yard, near his accustomed place of worship, 
where a plain, neat marble slab, bearing his name, age, and date 
of his death, is erected as the only memorial of the Mountain Miller.' 
A notice of his death was inserted in the county newspaper, with 
this expressive and appropriate remark : ' His presence animated 
the Christian and awed the sinner ;' which would have been his 
whole recorded story, had not some special indications of Provi- 
dence convinced the writer of this narrative of his duty to commu- 
nicate it, for the benefit, he trusts, of thousands. The pious tra- 
veller will hereafter delight to visit the place, consecrated by the 
residence of the Mountain Miller, to drink at the spring by the 
road-side, bursting from the rock and shaded by the two beautiful 
sugar maples, where he so often drank in passing between his 
house and mill, and, above all, to linger at the grave of this most 
devoted servant of the Most High. From this spot flowers have 
already been culled, and sent to different parts of this country and 
of Europe." The tract entitled the Mountain Miller, written by 
William A. Hallock, was first published by the American Tract 
Society, in 1831, and has since gone through numerous editions, 
and in various languages. 



PRESCOTT. 



This town was incorporated in 1822, previous to which it form- 
ed a part of Pelham. Rev. Ebenezer Brown was installed pastor 
here in 1827, and resigned in 1835. The Rev. Job Cushman, his 
successor, was installed here the same year. A church formerly 
existed in this town while it was a part of Pelham, over which 
two ministers were settled, Matthias Cazier and Sebastian C. Cabot. 



338 SOUTHHADLEY. 

This church became extinct. The church was re-organized in 
1823, with 12 members. 

This town is watered by several branches of Swift river, which 
is a principal branch of the Chicopee. The principal article of 
manufacture is palm-leaf hats, of which, in 1837, 50,000 were 
manufactured, valued at .$10,000. Population, 788. Distance, 16 
miles from Northampton, 8 from Amherst, and 76 from Boston. 



SOUTH HADLEY 



This town was originally a parish in Hadley ; it was incorpo- 
rated as a town in 1753. "This town was settled as early as 
1721 by a few families from Hadley. It was then called the South 
Precinct in Hadley. The first settlers for some time continued to 
attend public worship on the Sabbath in Hadley, a distance of 
about 7 or 8 miles. In 1733 the first town meeting as a sepa- 
rate district was held, and it was resolved that a meeting-house, 
the frame of which was put up the year before, should be in part 
finished. The building, however, was not completed until the 
close of the year 1737. The families were few in number and indi- 
gent in their circumstances, and the house was principally built by 
their personal labor; it was not large, containing only nine pews in 
the body of it. A gallery was subsequently added. There was 
no steeple or bell. The people were called together at the ap- 
pointed hour of public worship by the " blowing of a conch shell." 
The house still remains, and is occupied as a dwelling-house, on 
the north side of the common. In consequence of the house being 
too small to accommodate the people, at the meeting of the town in 
March, 1750, a vote was passed to build a new house, 55 feet in 
length and 45 in breadth, to be placed as near the old one as might 
conveniently be done, and as near the center of the town as possi- 
ble. The difficulty of locating the house was almost without a 
parallel. It was not till thirteen years afterwards that the question 
was settled, during which more than fifty meetings for the purpose 
of agreeing on the place were held. It was finally settled by lot. 
The lot fixed the place where the meeting-house of the first parish 
now stands. A part being dissatisfied, a council of ministers was 
called, consisting of the Rev. Dr. Williams of LongmeadoAv, Rev. 
Mr. Breck of Springfield, Rev. Mr. Ballantine of Westfield, and 
Rev. Mr. Lathrop of West Springfield, who decided that both par- 
ties were under moral obligation to abide by the lot. The first 
pastor of the church in South Hadley was Rev. Grindall Rawson, 
who was settled in 1733. A grant of land, called the " Proprietors^ 
Land,'^ was set off" to this town on its first settlement, by the town of 
Hadley, for the use of the ministry, on condition that the people 
should settle among them " a good orthodox minister." By a vote 
of the precinct, at their first meeting, this land was appropriated to 
Mr. Rawson. Rev. John Woodbridge, the successor oi Mr. Raw- 



SOUTH HADLEY. 



339 



son, was installed pastor in 1742. He died in 1783, aged 80. He 
was succeeded in the ministry by Rev. Joel Hays, who was settled 
in 1782. Rev. Artemas Boies, the next minister, was settled in 
1824, and was succeeded by Rev. Joseph D. Condit, in 1835. Rev. 
Flavel Griswold was the first pastor of the second or Canal church. 
He was installed pastor in 1828 ; Rev. William Tyler succeeded 
him in 1832. 

The soil in this township is light, warm, and in many places 
very productive. Considerable attention is paid by the farmers in 
this town to the raising of sheep. There is considerable water- 
power in the town, much of which is yet unimproved. The manu- 
facture of paper, satinet, and other articles, forms an important 
branch of business in this place. There is a canal in this town, 
two miles long, on the east side of Connecticut river, and a dam 
across the river of 1100 feet, which is constructed to overcome a 
fall in the river of 50 feet. This dam produces a water-power of 
great extent. The canal has five locks, and a cut thTough solid 
rock of 40 feet in depth and 300 in length. The amount of toils 
on the canal is from 10 to $18,000 annually. 




Northern viav of Mount Hobjoke Female Seminary. 

The abo^'e is a northern view of "Mount Holyoke Female Semi- 
nary," in the central village of South Hadley, 6 miles from North- 
ampton, and 13 from Springfield, which is now about opening for 
the reception of scholars. This institution is designed entirely for 
young ladies. " The design is to give a solid, extensive, and well- 
balanced English education, connected with that general improve- 
ment, that moral culture, and those enlarged views of duty, which 
will prepare ladies to be educators of children and youth." One 
leading object in this seminary is to raise up female teachers. 
This institution is designed to be permanent, and to be placed on 
as lasting foundations as the colleges in our country for the other 
sex. An act of incoi-poration has been obtained, and a self-perpetu- 
ating board of trustees appointed. The institution is designed to 
furnish the best facilities for education at a very moderate expense. 
One very important feature in the system to be adopted here, is, 



340 SOUTH HADLEY. 

that all the teachers and pupils, without a single exception, will 
constitute but one family, and all the pupils are to perform a part of 
the domestic work of the family. The place for an institution of 
this kind is well chosen, being easy of access, and at the same 
time removed from the evils attendant on a seminary of learning 
being located in a populous place. The view from the upper sto- 
ries of the seminary is commanding and interesting. At the north, 
the towering heights of Mount Tom and Holyoke, rising in gran- 
deur at the distance of two or three miles; the gorge between the 
two mountains, through which the Connecticut passes; the beauti- 
ful interval on which Northampton is situated, seen beyond, pre- 
sent a scene which is rarely equalled. There are 3 churches, 1 
Congregational in the center, 1 Congregational and 1 Methodist 
in the village at the falls, on the south border of the town. Popu- 
lation of the town, 1,400. 

In 1837, there were two woollen mills, 3 sets of machinery ; 
60,000 yards of cloth were manufactured, the value of which was 
$4.5,000. There were three paper mills ; stock manufactured, 
1,2.50 tons ; value of paper, $161,500; males employed, 43; females, 
41 ; capital invested, $100,000. Two pearl button manufactories; 
18,000 gross of buttons were manufactured, valued at $8,500; 
males employed, 13 ; females, 18 ; capital invested, $4,200. The 
value of leather tanned and curried was $18; 400. 

Mount Holyoke, on the northern borders of this town, rises 830 
feet above the level of the Connecticut at its base, and from its 
summit presents probably the richest view in America in point of 
cultivation and fertile beauty, and is quite a place of fashionable 
resort. " It is a part of a mountain ridge of greenstone, commencing 
with West Rock, near New Haven, and proceeding northerly, in- 
terrupted by only occasional valleys, across the whole of Connec- 
ticut, until it enters Massachusetts between West Springfield and 
Southwick, and proceeds along the west line of the first-named 
place, and along the east line of Westfield, Easthampton, and 
Northampton, to the banks of Connecticut. Until it reaches East- 
hampton its elevation is small ; biU there it suddenly mounts up to 
the height of a thousand feet, and forms Mount Tom. The ridge 
crosses Connecticut in a north-east direction, and curving still more 
to the east, passes along the dividing line of Amherst and South 
Hadley, until it terminates ten miles from the river in the north-Avest 
part of Belchertown. All that part of the ridge east of the river is 
called Holyoke ; though the prospect house is erected near its south- 
western extremity, opposite Northampton and near the Connecticut." 

The following view is from Mt. Holyoke, showing the appearance 
of the curve of the Connecticut, sometimes called the Ox-bow, 
which gracefully sweeps round a circuit of three miles without 
advancing its ocean course a hundred rods. " In the view from 
Holyoke we have the grand and beautiful united ; the latter, how- 
ever, greatly predominating." "On the west is seen, a little elevated 
above the general level, the populous village of Northampton, with 
its elegant public and private buildings ; a little more to the right 



SOUTHAMPTON. 



341 




View from the summit of Mount Holyoke. 



the neat and substantial villages of Hadley and Hatfield ; and still 
further east and more distant, Amherst, with its college, gymnasium 
and academy, on a commanding eminence, form a pleasant resting 
place to the eye. On the south is seen the village of South Hadley. 
Springfield and other places south indistinctly visible along the 
banks of the Connecticut, and even the spires of the churches in 
Hartford may be seen in good weather, just rising above the trees. 
With a telescope the elevated peaks in the vicinity of New Haven 
may be seen. Facing the south-west, the observer has before him 
the ridge called Mount Tom, which rises one or two hundred feet 
higher than Holyoke." " In the north-west the Graylock may be 
seen peering above the Hoosic, and still farther north the Green 
mountains shoot up beyond the region of clouds. Near at hand, in 
the valley of the Connecticut, are seen the insulated Sugar-loaf 
and Toby presenting their fantastic outlines : Avhile far in the north- 
east rises in insulated grandeur the cloud-capt Monadnoc." " Pro- 
bably, under favorable circumstances, not less than 30 churches, in 
as many towns, are visible from Holyoke. The north and south 
diameter of the field of vision there can scarcely be less than 150 
miles." 



SOUTHAMPTON. 

This town was incorporated in 1753, previous to which it was 
a part or precinct of Northampton. The first persons who took 
up their residence in this plantation were Judah Hutchinson and 
Thomas Porter, in 1732 ; the next year fourteen other settlers 
came into the place. Some families had resided in the north part 
of the town, in Pomeroy's meadow ; they belonged however to the 
old town till after a meeting-house was built in the south pre- 
cinct. Between 1733 and 1740, fourteen families removed to 
the place. The first meeting of freeholders qualified to vote in 

46 



342 WARE. 

precinct affairs was held in 1741. On the Sth of Jnne, 1743, the 
first church was organized, and Rev. Jonathan Judd was ordained 
pastor at the same time ; and on the same day Waitstill Strong 
and John Clark were chosen deacons. The clergymen at his 
ordination were Messrs. Edwards of Northampton, Hopkins of 
West Springfield, Woodbridge of South Hadley, Parsons of East 
Hadley, Williams of Hadley, Woodbridge of Hatfield, and Ballan- 
tine of AVestfield. " It was requested that eacli should bring a 
messenger with him." Mr. Edwards preached the sermon, which 
Avas afterwards published. Mr. Judd had for settlement 200 acres 
of land, 100 pounds old tenor^ and 125 pounds, old tenor, to be 
expended in work on his house. His salary for the first three 
years was 130 pounds, old tenor, per annum, and five pounds a 
year to be added till it reached 170 pounds. At the next meeting 
it was voted to give him his wood ; '' and we will give hj§^ more 
according to our ability." His house during the Indian troubles 
was fortified.* Mr. Judd died in 1803, aged 83. Rev. Vinson 
Gould, his successor, was ordained colleague pastor in 1801, and 
resigned in 1832. His successor. Rev. Morris E. White, was set- 
tled the same year. 

The Manhan river, which rises in Westhampton, passes twice 
through this town, first from north to south, into Westfield, and 
then, returning, passes north-east, into Easthampton, aftbrding 
water privileges. There is a small village in the central part of 
the town, containing a Congregational church and an academy. 
The New Haven and Northampton canal passes through this 
place. Agriculture is the principal business of the inhabitants. 
Population, 1,216. Distance, 8 miles from Northampton, and 
97 from Boston. Several interesting minerals are found here ; and 
indications of a rich lead mine, so promising that a company was 
incorporated, with a capital of $200,000, in order to work it. 
The success of the undertaking however did not equal the expec- 
tation of the projectors. At this time, this mine, which is situated 
in the northern part of the town, is not worked. 



WARE. 

This town was incorporated in 1761. " Ware remained unset- 
tied for many years after the adjoining towns were settled, the soil 
being so hard and rough that it was considered unfit for cultiva- 
tion. At an early period nearly the whole territory now comprised 
in the town was granted by the general court to a military com- 
pany from Narragansett, as a reward for expelling the Indians 
from that vicinity. So little value was placed upon it by the com- 

*During this period a number of soldiers were stationed in this town, for the defence 
of the inhabitants. In August, 1747. Elhha Clark was killed by the Indians, when he 
was thrashing in his barn. Noah Pixley was also killed in this town during the French 
and Indian wars. 



WARE 



343 



pany, that they shortly after sold it to John Reed, Esq., of Boston, 
for two coppers per acre ; yet it is nov/ one of the most flourishing 
towns in this part of the state." The first church in this town 
was formed in 1757. Rev. Grindall Rawson, the first clergyman, 
was settled in 17.51, and resigned in 1754; Rev. Ezra Thayer, his 
successor, was settled in 1759, and died in 1775. Rev. Benjamin 
Judd, the next minister, was settled in 1785 ; he resigned in 1787, 
and was succeeded by Rev. Reuben Moss, who was settled in 1792, 
and died in 1809. Rev. Samuel Ware, the next minister, was set* 
tied in 1810; resigned in 1826, and was succeeded by Rev. Augus- 
tus B. Reed, the same year. The second or village church was 
organized in 1826. Rev. Parsons Cooke was settled in the same 
year. His successor, Rev. Cyrus Yale, was installed pastor in 
1835, and resigned in 1837. 




South-rvestern view of Wari 



The above is a south-western view of Ware village, as seen 
from near the Northampton road. This village is situated in the 
eastern part of the town, on Ware river, a large and powerful 
stream, rising in the western part of Worcester county. A great 
change has taken place at tire falls of the river in this town within 
a short period ; a flourishing village has arisen, containing, it is sup- 
posed, at this time, upwards of 1,500 inhabitants, where a few 
years since was but a wilderness. The Ware Manufacturing Com- 
pany was incorporated February, 1822, with a capital of .f 525,000. 
There is a bank in the village, the " Hampshire Manufacturers 
Bank," with a capital of $150,000. In 1837, there were 2 cotton 
mills, 6,544 spindles ; cotton consumed, 516,000 lbs. ; cotton goods 
manufactured, 1,450,000 yards, valued at $160,000 ; males employ- 
ed, 62 ; females, 200 ; capital invested, |200,600. There were 2 
woollen mills, 11 sets of woollen machinery ; 270,000 lbs. of wool 
were consumed; 230,000 yards of cloth were manufactured, valued 
at .$280,000 ; males employed, 77 ; females, SO ; capital invested, 
$200,000. There were manufactured 867 pairs of boots, and 



344 WILLIAMSBURG. 

61,623 pairs of shoes, valued at |i53,164. Straw bonnets manu- 
factured, 85,000, valued at !|114,832; palm-leaf hats manufactur- 
ed, 79,200, valued at :| 10,870; value of augers manufactured, 
$4,500. Population, 2,403. Distance, 25 miles from Northamp- 
ton, 23 from Springfield, 27 to Worcester, 44 to Hartford, Con., and 
67 to Boston, 



W E S T H A M P T O N . 

This town was incorporated in 1778. The first settlement of 
this town began about the year 1767. Lemuel Strong, the oldest 
son of Noah Strong, (in 1817 the oldest man in the town,) is sup- 
posed to have been the first child born in this town. In 17^1 there 
were about sixty families and three hundred souls in the town. 
The first minister, Rev. Enoch Hale, was settled here in 1779 ; he 
died 1837, aged 83. Mr. Hale was the brother of Capt. Nathan 
Hale of Connecticut, the martyr to American liberty, who was 
executed as a spy in 1775, aged 22. The successor of Mr. Hale 
in the ministry was Rev. Horace B. Chapin, who settled here in 
1829, and resigned in 1837 ; his successor was Rev. Amos Drury, 
who was installed pastor the same year. 

This is principally an agricultural town. In 1837, there were 
170 Saxony, 944 merino, and 1,404 other kinds of sheep; average 
weight of fleece, 2J lbs. ; value of wool, $3,205 ; capital invested, 
$7,204. Population, 818. Distance, 8 miles from Northampton, 
8 from Williamsburg, and 100 from Boston. 



WILLIAMSBURG 



This town was incorporated in 1771. The first Congregational 
minister settled in this place was Rev. Amos Butler, a native of 
Hartford, Con.; this Avas in 1773; he died in 1777, at the age of 
twenty-nine years. Mr. Butler was succeeded by Rev. Joseph 
Strong, in 1781. Mr. Strong died .Tan. 1st, 1803, and was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Henry Lord in 1804. His successor was Rev. 
William Lusk, who was installed here in 1836. 

A considerable stream passes through this town, and unites with 
the Connecticut at Northampton, affording good water-power for 
manufacturing purposes. The following is a southern view of the 
central part of Williamsburg. The Methodist church recently 
erected is seen on the left ; the Congregational church is seen on 
the right, southerly of which is the bridge over the mill stream 
passing through the village. In the central part of the engraving 
is seen in the extreme distance the spire of the old Congregational 
church, situated about half a mile northward from the central 
part of the village. This was built more than fifty years ago. 



WORTHINGTON 



345 




Southern view of Williamsburg. 

This village is 8 miles from Northampton, and 103 from Boston. 
Population, 1,345. 

The Williamsburg woollen, linen and cotton manufactory was 
incorporated in 1825, with a capital of ^250,000. In 1837, there 
were 3 woollen mills; 42,150 yards of cloth were manufactured, 
valued at $69,235 ; males employed, 26 ; females, 25 ; capital in- 
vested, $33,700 ; value of flexible and japan buttons manufactured, 
$102,500 ; hands employed, 13 males and 105 females ; capital 
invested, $39,000; value of axes manufactured, $6,106; value 
of augers, bitts, and bitt-stocks manufactured, $2,310 ; value of 
gimblets, screw-drivers, and punches manufactured, $4,066. 



WORTHINGTON. 

This town was incorporated in 1768. The Rev. Jonathan Hunt- 
ington appears to have been the first minister in the place. He 
died in 1780, aged 48 ; his successor in the ministry was Rev. 
Josiah Spaulding, who died in 1803 ; the next minister was Rev. 
Jonathan L. Pomeroy, who died in 1836, aged 67. The next 
minister was Rev. Henry Adams, who was settled in 1833. 

This toAvnship occupies an elevated situation near the center of 
the Green mountain range, upon its eastern declivity. The waters in 
this township are discharged into the Connecticut by the Westfield 
river, the principal branch of which washes the south-west boun- 
dary of the town, and other branches pass through the middle and 
north-east parts. It is one of the best townships of land in this 
vicinity ; the surface is handsome and pleasant, and much of the 
soil rich and productive, producing grain, fruits, &c. In 1837, 
there were in this town 9,050 merino sheep; wool produced, 27,000 
lbs. ; average weight of fleece, 3 lbs. ; value of wool, $16,875 ; capi- 
tal invested, $25,000; value of curtains manufactured, $10,125; 



346 



ACTON, 



value of leather tanned and curried, $32,000. Population, 1,142. 
Distance, 17 miles from Northampton, 55 from Albany, N. Y., and 
110 from ]3oston. 



MIDDLESEX COUNTY. 

This county was incorporated in 1643. The surface is uneven, 
and the soil varied. The principal streams in the limits of the 
county are the Merrimac, Charles, Concord, and Nashua. There 
are no mountains in this county, but its surface is diversified by 
numerous small hills, Avhich are generally less than one hundred 
feet in height. Tlie land in the northern and southern parts is the 
most uneven. The soil is not generally so good as that in some 
other parts of the state, but it well rewards cultivation. The 
manufacturing interests of this county are very important, particu- 
larly in the manufacture of cotton goods. In 1837, there were 
52,860,194 yards of cotton goods manufactured, the value of which 
was $5,971,172, being nearly three times the value manufactured 
in any other county in the state. The canal, and particularly the 
railroads recently constructed in the count}^, afford great facili- 
ties in the transportation of goods to and from Boston. Cam- 
bridge and Concord are the shire towns. The following is a list 
of the towns in this county, which are 46 in number. 



Acton, 


Dracut, 


Medford, 


Townsend, 


Ashby, 


Dunstable, 


Natick, 


Tyngsborough, 


Bedford, 


Framingham, 


Newton, 


Waltham, 


Billerica, 


Groton, 


Pepperell, 


Watertown, 


Boxborough, 


Holliston, 


Reading, 


Way land, 


Brighton, 


Hopkinton, 


Sherburne, 


W. Cambridge, 


Burlington, 


Lexington, 


Shirley, 


Westford, 


Cambridge, 


Lincoln, 


South Readin 


g, AVeston, 


Carlisle, 


Littleton, 


Stoneham, 


Wilmington, 


Charles town. 


Lowell, 


Stow, 


Woburn. 


Chelmsford, 


Maiden, 


Sudbury, 




Concord, 


Marlborough, 


Tewksbury, 





In 1820, the population of this county was 61,476 : 
was 77,968 ; in 1837, it was 98,565. 



in 1830, it 



ACTON. 

The town of Acton lies wholly within the ancient limits of Con- 
cord. Most of the lands comprised within its limits were granted 
to the town of Concord "for feeding;" they were, however, not 
very accurately defined, as when they were actually surveyed 
tliey were found to contain a greater number of acres than nomi- 
nally specified in the grants. A settlement M'-as commenced .n 



A S H B Y . 347 

these grants as early as 1656, and perhaps a few years earher. 
The Shepherd and Law famihes were among the first. Many of 
the meadows were open prairies, and afforded, with httle or no 
labor, grass in abundance. Some of the uplands had been cleared 
by the Indians, and were favorite places for feeding. 

" In 1668, the town leased to Capt. Thomas Wheeler, for 20 years, 200 acres of 
upland near Mr. Silas Holden's present residence, and 60 acres of meadow lying in 
several parcels on Nashobah brook, on condition that he should keep, ' except 12 Sab- 
bath days yearly,' a herd of 50 cattle for Is. per head for the inhabitants, to be paid 
' one third part in wheat, one third part in rie or pease, and the other third part in 
Indian corn.' They were to be constantly watched by a ' herdsman,' and kej)t in a 
yard at night to protect them from the wild beasts. Capt. Wheeler agreed to build a 
house ' 40 feet by 18, and 12 stud,' covered with shingles, and to have a ' pair of 
chimneys ; ' and a barn 40 by 24, and 12 high, to be left for the use of the town aftei 
the expiration of the lease." 

The town was incorporated in 173.5, one hundred years from the 
incorporation of Concord. The surface of the town is rough and 
uneven, though there are no considerable hills ; and with some 
exceptions the soil is rocky and hard to cultivate. It coii tains, 
however, many good farms. The principal employment of the 
inhabitants is agriculture. There are, however, from 15,000 to 
20,000 barrels annually manufactured here, and this business is a 
source of considerable income. There are two Congregational 
churches in this town, one for the Orthodox, the other for Unita- 
rians. This place is 21 miles N. W. of Boston, and 5 N. Westerly 
from Concord. Population, 1,071. The first meeting-house (42 
feet by 36, and 21 feet high) was built in 1736, and served as a 
place of worship till the present one was erected, in 1808. The 
Rev. John Swift was the first minister ordained in this town ; this 
was on Nov. 8, 1738. During the prevalence of the small-pox in 
Acton, in 1775, he was severely attacked, and was never able to 
preach afterwards. He died the same year, in the 37th year of his 
ministry. The Rev. Moses Adams was next ordained here, June 
25, 1778. He died in 1819, aged 70. The Rev. Marshall Shed in 
1820 became their next pastor ; he was dismissed at his own re- 
quest, in May, 1831. The Orthodox society seceded from the 
town, and formed a separate parish during the latter part of Mr. 
Shed's ministry, and the Rev. James T. Woodbury was ordained 
over them, Aug. 29, 1832. The Universalist society in this town 
was organized in 1816, and incorporated in 1825. 



ASHBY 



This town was incorporated in 1767. It is situated at the north- 
Avestern extremity of the county. This township is on elevated 
land, varied with hills and valleys, furnishing rich pastures and 
agreeable prospects. This is an agricultural town, and the farms 
are productive. The two churches in the central part of the town 
stand on high land, and may be seen from a great distance. Pop- 
ulation, 1,201. Distance, 25 miles from (Joncord, and 42 from 



348 BEDFORD. 

Boston. The manufacture of palm-leaf hats is the principal manu- 
facturing business performed in the town. In 1837, there were 
69,989 hats manufactured, the value of which was $7,751 5U. 



BEDFORD 



Bedford originally belonged in part to the town of Concord. It 
was incorporated as a town in 1729. It is not very well situated 
for an agricultural town. About half of it is meadow land, un- 
improved, and partly incapable of improvement. It contains, 
however, several good farms, and nearly all the varieties of soil. 
The Shawshlne is the only considerable stream of water. On this 
stream is a mill which was built before Philip's war, in 167G, and 
was then owned by Michael Bacon, who Avas allowed to have two 
garrison soldiers stationed there for his safety. Agriculture is the 
employment of a large portion of the people. The manufacture 
of shoes for the Boston market was begun here in 1SU,5, by John 
Hosmer and Jonathan Bacon. In this business about 60 men and 
80 women are employed. About 90,000 pairs of shoes, estimated 
to be worth f 50,000, are made annually. There are 2 churches, 
1 Orthodox and 1 Unitarian, and about 30 dwelling-houses, in the 
central part of the town. This place is 5 miles north-east of Con- 
cord, and 15 north-west of Boston, and contains 858 inhabitants. 

The first meeting-house was completed in 1730. Committees 
were chosen the next and many subsequent " to seat the meeting- 
house," and "have respect to them that are 50 years old and up- 
wards ;" those under this age " to be seated according to their pay." 
A new meeting-house was erected in 1817. The first minister, 
Rev. Nicholas Bowes, was ordained July 15, 1730. He was dis- 
missed in 1734, and in 1735 went as chaplain in the northern army 
at Fort Edward. In 1756, Rev. Nathaniel Sherman was the next 
ordained here. Being opposed to the "half-way covenant," he 
was dismissed in 1766. The Rev. Joseph Penniman was the next 
regular minister, and was ordained m 1771, and continued here 
about twenty years. Though possessed of respectable talents, he 
was very eccentric in his manners and public performances. Soon 
after the 19th of April, 1775, he is said to have used the following 
expression in his prayer : — " We pray thee to send the British sol- 
diers where they will do some good ; for thou knowest, O Lord ! 
that we have no use for them about here." The next minister 
was the Rev. Samuel Stearns, who was ordained in April, 1796. 

Among the peculiar customs which prevailed in the church from 
its first formation to the ordination of Mr. Stearns, was that of 
making public confession of particular offences committed by the 
members. These were drawn up in writing, and read by the min- 
ister before the congregation. Frequent notices are specified in 

the church records, such as "the confession of for the sin of 

intemperance," "for the breach of the seventh commandment," or 



B I L L E R I C A . 349 

Other sins, as the case might be, "was read before the congrega- 
tion." This custom was not peculiar to the churcli in Bedford ; 
it prevailed to some extent in many other churches. 



BILLERICA. 



The ancient Indian name of Billerica was Shawshine, a name 
which it received from its vicinity to the river of this name. The 
present name is derived from Billerlcai/, in the county of Essex, in 
England, whence it is supposed that several of the first inhabitants 
emigrated. As early as 1637, the general court appointed Capt. 
Jennison and Lieut. Spooner to view Shawshine, and to consider 
whether it be fit for a plantation. In 1641, it was granted to Cam- 
bridge, "provided they would make it a village to have ten fami- 
lies settled there within ten years." It appears that the first set- 
tlement was made about the year 1653. It was commenced by a 
number of respectable families from Cambridge, but the greater 
part were originally from England. The following are the names 
of some of the first principal settlers: John Parker, John Kit- 
tredge, John Rogers, William French, George Farley, Ralph Hill, 
Samuel Manning, Simon Crosby, Jonathan Danforth, Rev. Samuel 
Whiting, Thomas Richardson, Edward Farmer, Joseph Tompson. 

In 1656, the inhabita.nts of Shawshine, in answer to their peti- 
tion, obtained a grant of land lying upon Concord river, near the 
farms of John and Robert Blood. To this tract the court granted 
the name of Billerica. In the same year, 8,000 acres of land lying 
at Natticott were granted to the inhabitants. About 6,300 acres 
were situated on the east of Merrimac river, and 1,750 on the west 
side. The toAvn was divided into lots, by Jonathan Danforth, 
who was one of the committee for locating the home lots. These 
lots were most generally denominated ten and five acre lots. A 
ten acre lot, or a single share, contained 113 acres of upland, and 
12 acres of meadow. A five acre lot contained half this quantity. 

It appears that the first church was gathered in this town in 
1663, and the Rev. Samuel Whiting was ordained in the same 
year. The first meeting-house was erected by John Parker, and 
completed about 1660; it was at first covered with thatch instead 
of shingles. A regard for purity of morals and an attention to re- 
ligious duties appear to have been the characteristics of the first 
inhabitants. Within a few years after the town was settled, three 
persons were chosen " to examine the several families, and see 
whether their children and servants were taught in the principles 
of religion." In 1675, the selectmen of this town passed an order 
that all children and youth from eight years old and upwards 
should be sent by their parents and masters to the Reverend Mr. 
Whiting, to receive catechetical instruction at such times as should 
be appointed. Mr. Whiting died in 1713, having preached in this 
place more than fifty years. He was succeeded by Rev. Samuel 
Ruggles. 47 



350 B I L L E R I C A . 

Capt. Jonathan Danforth was one of the most active and enter- 
prising settlers of Billerica. He was distinguished for his mathe- 
matical knowledge, usefulness, and piety. From his skill in sur- 
veying, he was frequently employed in locating new towns atid 
settlements in the provinces of New Hampshire and Massachu- 
setts. The plans of his surveys were very numerous, and many 
of them remain. He also left other manuscripts. A poem was 
written on his death, (in 1712,) of which the following is an ex- 
tract : 

" He rode the circuit, chaiu'd great towns and farms 
To good behavior; and by well marked stations, 
He fixed their bounds for many generations. 
His art ne'er fail'd him, though the loadstone failed, 
When oft by mines and streams it was assailed ; 
All this is charming, but there 's something higher, 
Gave him the lustre which we most admire." 

Here follows an account of his piety, attention to religious du- 
ties, which are celebrated by the poet in the versification peculiai 
to that period. 

About the period of king Philip's war, the number of families in 
Billerica was about forty-eight, and the number of dwelling-houses 
forty-seven. The alarm produced by the incursions of the Indians 
at this time, caused many persons to leave their habitations and 
seek refuge in the most compact part of the several towns. It is 
not known, however, that this town suffered any essential injury 
during Philip's war. 

Within the original limits of this town lived a considerable body 
of Indians. The Pawtucketts, at Wamesit and its vicinity, con- 
tained in 1675 about 2.50 souls. They had been formerly esti- 
mated at 3,000. They inhabited a small tract of land on the east 
side of Concord river, and bordering on the Merrimac. The divi- 
sion line between them and the English, it is said, extended from 
Merrimac river, about half a mile below the mouth of Concord 
river, on a direct line to Concord river, two miles from its mouth. 
Their plantation was separated from the English by a ditch, which 
may be still traced. Within these limits is a hill, called Fort Hill, 
on which are some remains of their fortification. In this place it 
seems the Indians were in some degree civilized, and attended to 
the cultivation of their lands. 

During the French and Indian war, on Aug. .5th, 1695, the In- 
dians made an irruption on the inhabitants of this place. " In the 
northerly part of the town, on the east of Concord river, lived seve- 
ral families, who, though without garrisons and in time of war, 
felt no apprchonsious of danger. Their remoteness from the fron- 
tiers might have contributed to their apparent security. The In- 
dians came suddenly upon them in the day-time. They entered 
the house of John Rogers while he was sleeping, and discharged 
an arrow at him, which entered his neck and pierced the jugular 
vein. Awakened by this sudden and unexpected attack, he started 
up, seized the arrow, which he forcibly withdrew, and expired 
with the instrument of death in his hand. A woman being in the 



BIL L E RICA . 



351 



chamber, threw herself out of the window, and, though severely- 
wounded, made her escape by concealing lierself among some flags. 
A young woman was scalped, and left for dead, but survived the 
painfid operation, and lived many years afterwards. A son and 
daughter of Mr. Rogers were made prisoners. The family of John 
Levistone suffered most severely. His mother-in-law and five 
young children were killed, and his oldest daughter captured. 
Thomas Rogers and his oldest son were killed. Mary, the wife 
of Dr. Roger Toothaker, was killed, and Margaret, his youngest 
daughter, taken prisoner. Fifteen persons were killed or taken 
at this surprisal. Though the Indians were immediately pursued 
by the inhabitants of the center of the town, ^'•et so effectually had 
they taken precautions in their flight that all efforts to find them 
were unavailing. It is said that they even had tied up the mouths 
of their dogs with wampum, from an apprehension that their bark- 
ing would discover tlie direction they had taken. The shock given 
to the inliabitants by this melancholy event was long had in pain- 
ful remembrance." 




Southern view of Billerica, (ce/itral part.) 

The above is a southern view of the central part of Billerica, 
taken from the Concord road. The Unitarian church (erected in 
1797) and the academy are seen on the left of the engraving. 
The tavern and post-ofiice, the town-house, and some otber build- 
ings, are seen on the opposite side of the street ; the spire of the 
( )rthodox Congregational church is seen on the extreme right. Tlie 
village street is about a mile in extent. About two miles north- 
ward, the Middlesex canal crosses the Concord river ; in the east- 
ern part of the town this canal and the Lowell railroad cross th(j 
Shawshine river; the canal crosses this river by means of an 
aqueduct 20 feet in height. Population, 1,498. Distance. 10 miles 
from Concord, 6 from Lowell, and 18 from Boston. In 1837, there 
were 2 woollen mills, and 4 sets of machinery • 96,319 yards of 



362 BRIGHTON. 

cloth were manufactured, valued at $32,561 ; males employed, 17; 
females, 23. There were 512 pahs of boots and 19,336 pairs of 
shoes manufactured, which were valued at $11,093. 

The following inscriptions were copied from monuments in the 
grave-yard on the Concord road, about a mile from the central 
part of the village : 

Sub hoc saxo sepulchrali conditi sunt ciueres Reverendi domini Samuelis Ruggles, 
ecclesiee nuper pastoris Billericse : qui cursu quem Deus dederat peracto A. C. 1749, 
morti cessit tertio die Martii, cum vixisset annos circiter 68, et munere sacerdotali fer- 
ine 41 fideliter perfuiictus esset. 

Which may be translated in the following manner : 

Beneath this monumental stone are gathered the ashes of the Reverend Samuel Rug- 
gles, late pastor of the church at Billerica ; who having finished the work appointed 
for him by God, departed in 1749, on the 3d day of March. He was about 68 years 
of age, and had faithfully discharged the ministerial office for almost 41 years. 



Here lies y body of the widow Lydia Dyar, of Boston, the place of her nativity, 
where she left a good Estate & came into y^ country May 22'', 1775, to escape y« 
abuce of y-" Ministerial Troops sent by George y« S"* to subject North America. She 
died July 28ii" 1776, aged 80 years. 

The sweet remembrance of the just 
Shall flourish when they sleep in dust. 



Beneath this stone rest the remains of the Rev. Henhy CmmnNGS, D. D., late pastor 
of the church and Christian Society in Billerica. Born Sept. 25'''> 1739 ; ordained Jan. 
26, 1763 ; died Sept. 5"'. 1823. Possessing intellectual powers of the highest order, he 
was eminently learned, pious and faithful, and by his life and example illustrated and 
recommended the doctrine and virtues he taught and inculcated. In grateful re- 
membrance of his distinguished virtues, this stone is erected by the people of his 
charge. 



BOXBOROUGH 



This town was incorporated in 1783. The tract comprising the 
township is elevated and hilly. There is no stream of much im- 
portance in the town. The township lies between Concord and 
Nashua rivers, and at nearly equal distance from both. The popu- 
lation of this town in 1837 was 433, being smaller than that of 
any other in Middlesex county. About one thousand dollars' 
worth of straw bonnets and palm-leaf hats were manufactured in 
this place. Limestone is found in the town, and hops have been 
cultivated to some extent. Distance, 9 miles from Concord, and 
25 from Boston. 



BRIGHTON 



Brighton was formerly a part of Cambridge, and known by the 
name of Little Cambridge. It was incorporated in 1807. The 
town contains several beautiful country seats and highly-cultivated 
farms, 2 Congregational churches, 1 of which is Unitarian, and a 
bank, the " Brighton Bank," with a capital of $200,000. Popula- 



BRIGHTON. 353 

tion, 1,337. It is 16 miles S. E. from Concord, 35 E. of Wor- 
cester, 8 northerly from Dedham, and 5 W. of Boston. 

A cattle fair was commenced here during the revolutionary war, 
and has been increasing in importance ever since. Most of the 
cattle for the supply of Boston market are brought in droves to 
this place, from two hundred to six thousand a week : every Mon - 
day is the fair, or market day, when the dealers in provisions 
resort thither to make purchases. 




Western vierv of Brighton, (^central ]jart.) 

The above is a western view of the central part of Brighton, 
showing the place where the great cattle-market of New England 
is held. The street at this time is filled with cattle of various 
kinds, and with buyers and sellers. Large droves of cattle are 
driven from Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont to this market. 
Besides furnishing the Boston market, great numbers of cattle are 
collected, bought and slaughtered, and barreled up for exportation 
to various places. In the engraving the large building appearing 
on the left is the "Cattle Fair Hotel:" at times as many as 
400 or 500 persons have been knoAvn to dine at this establishment 
on market days. The Unitarian church is the next building east- 
ward ; the Brighton Bank is seen on the opposite side of the street. 
A reporter attends the market, and his reports of the prices, (fcc, are 
published in the newspapers. " Winship^s Gardens,''' celebrated 
for their great variety of shrubs and flowers, are about half a mile 
north of the Cattle Fair Hotel. The Worcester railroad passes 
through the northern part of these gardens. 

The following statement of Brighton market for 1837 and 1838 
is from the public prints. In 1837, 32,664 beef cattle, 16,216 
stores, 110,206 sheep, 17,052 swine; total sales estimated at 
$2,449,231. In 1838, 25,850 beef cattle, sales estimated at 
$1,317,330; 9,573 stores, sales $315,909;' 104,640 sheep, sales 
$261,600; 26,164 swine, sales $163,165 — total sales estimated at 
$2 058,004. 



354 CAMBRIDGE. 

BURLINGTON. 

This town was incorporated in 1799. The land in this town is 
rather rough and hard to cultivate. There is a small stream in 
the town, called Vine brook, a branch of the Shawshine river, which 
flows into the Merrimac in the town of Andover. There is a 
Congregational church in the central part of the town. In 1837 
there were 5,800 pairs of shoes manufactured in this town, valued 
at $4,900. There were twelve males and nine females employed 
in this business. Population, 522. Distance, 10 miles north-east 
of Concord, 11 S. E. from Lowell, and 13 from Boston, 



CAMBRIDGE. 

The settlement of Cambridge commenced in 1631. It was 
originally intended to make it the metropolis of the province of 
Massachusetts. Governor Winthrop, Deputy Governor Dudley, 
and the assistants, having examined the territory lying in the vicini- 
ty of the new settlements, upon a view of this spot " all agreed it a 
fit place for a beautiful town, and took time to consider further 
about it," On Dec. 29, 1630, " after many consultations about a fit 
place to build a town for the seat of government, they agree on a 
place N. W. side of Charles river, about three miles W. of Charles- 
town ; and all except Mr. Endicot and Sharp (the former living at 
Salem, and the latter purposing to return to England) oblige 
themselves to build themselves houses there the following spring, 
and remove their ordnance and munition thither, and first call the 
place NewtownP^ The town was laid out in squares, the streets 
intersecting each other at right angles ; one square was reserved 
and left open for the purpose of a market. According to agreement, 
the governor and other principal gentlemen, in the spring of 1631, 
began to erect their houses. On some considerations, however, 
"which at first came not into their minds, " the governor took 
down the frame of his house and removed it to Boston, which he 
intended to make the place of his future abode, much to the disap- 
pointment of the rest of the company, who were still resolved to 
build at Newtown. 

In 1632 the court ordered " that £60 be levied out of the several 
plantations, towards making a palisado about the Neio ToionP 
This fortification was made ; and the fosse which was then dug 
about the town (says Dr. Holmes in his History of Cambridge) is 
in some places visible to this day. In some of the first years, the 
annual election of the governor and magistrates of the colony was 
holden in this town. " The people on these occasions assembled 
under an oak tree on the northerly side of the common, which 
long remained a venerable monument of the freedom, the patriotism, 
and the piety of the ancestors of New England." A considerable 

* Prince's Chroaology, vol. ii. 



CAMBRIDGE. 355 

accession appears to have been made to this place in August, 1632, 
by the arrival of Mr. Hooker's company. Messrs. Hooker, Stone, 
and Haynes, the three principal fathers of the Connecticut colony, 
came over in 1633. The Rev. Mr. Hooker and his assistant, Rev. 
Samuel Stone, were the first settled ministers at Cambridge. The 
fame of the removal of these eminent men to America induced 
great numbers of the Puritans to come over, and the number of 
inhabitants so increased at Newtown, that Mr. Hooker and the 
Avhole of his church and congregation, in 1636, emigrated to Hart- 
ford, on Connecticut river. Their houses and lands at Newtown 
were purchased by the Rev. Thomas Shepherd and his company, 
who thus had the advantage of entering a settlement furnished 
with comfortable accommodations. 

In 1636. the general court contemplated the erection of a public 
school at Newtown, and appropriated four hundred pounds for 
that purpose ; which laid the foundation of Harvard college. In 
1638, the Rev. John Harvard,^ of Charlestown, endowed the pub- 
lic school with about eight hundred pounds. Thus endowed, this 
school was exalted to a college, and assumed the name of its prin- 
cipal benefactor ; and Newtoivn^ in compliment to the college, and 
in memory of the place where many of our fathers received their 
education, was now denominated Cambridge. 

Cambridge is a half shire town, and may be divided into three 
parts. Old Cambridge, the seat of the University, is three miles 
from West Boston bridge, which divides Cambridge from Boston ; 
Cambridgejjori is a compact, flourishing village, about half way 
between the University and the bridge. East Cambridge, for- 
merly Lechmere Point, is of newer growth, and is a very flourishing 
place. It is the seat of the county courts, and is connected with 
Boston by Canal bridge and the viaduct of the Boston and Lowell 
railroad over Charles river. There are three banks in the town : 
the Middlesex Bank, with a capital of $150,000, is located in East 
Cambridge ; the Charles River Bank (capital $100,000) is located 
in the ancient village; the Cambridge Bank (capital $100,000) is 
located in Cambridgeport. 

The following is a south-eastern view of East Cambridge as seen 
from the Warren bridge, leading into Charlestown. The glass 
manufactories are seen on the right, with part of the bridge con- 
necting the place with Charlestown ; part of the viaduct on which 

* A monument to his memory has been erected in Charlestown by the subscriptions 
of the graduates of Harvard college, in small sums. It is constructed of granite, in a 
solid shaft of fifteen feet elevation, and in the simplest style of ancient art. " On the 
eastern face of the shaft, the name of John Harvard is inscribed, with the following 
lines : < On the 26th of September, A. D. 1828, this stone was erected by the gradu- 
ates of the University at Cambridge, in honor of its founder, who died at Charlestown, 
on the 26th of September, 1638.' On the western side of the shaft is an inscription in 
Latin, of the following purport : ' that one who merits so much from our literary men, 
should no longer be without a monument, however humble. The graduates of the 
University of Cambridge, New England, have erected this stone, nearly two hundred 
years after his death, in pious and perpetual remembrance of John Harvard.' " At 
the erection of this monument, Gov. Everett, who is considered one of the best scho- 
lars educated at Harvard college, delivered an appropriate and eloquent address. 



356 



CAMBRIDGE. 




Eastern view of East Cambridge. 



the cars pass into Boston is seen on the left, beyond which is seen 
one of tlie churches and the conrt-house. One of the glass manu- 
factories in this place produces some of the finest specimens of cut 
glass ware manufactured in this country. The soil in this part 
of Cambridge being of a clayey kind, large quantities of bricks are 
annually made. 

The following list of articles manufactured in this town, their 
value, and the number of hands employed, is taken from the 
Statistical Tables published by the state in 1837. 

Articlea. Value. 
Glass, 8453,076, 

Boots and Shoes, 28,768, 

Hats, 24,984, 

Chairs and Cabinet Ware, 3,750, 

Tin Ware, 5,000, 

Carriages, Harnesses, &c., 41,905, 

Organs, 6,500, 

Clothing, 11,370, 
Carpenters' Rules and Rods, 5,000, 

Cigars, 9,788, 

Brass and Britannia ) ,,, n.n,o. 

Ware finishing, j ^-j^uu, 

The population of the town in 1837 was 7,631. 

The college buildings stand on an enclosed plain of fourteen 
acres, around which, except in front, forest trees are planted. 
These buildings are large and commodious, which have been 
erected at different periods, as the accommodations of the officers 
and students required. Most of them are of brick ; the most mo- 
dern are of granite ; they bear the names of various patrons of the 
institution. The building seen on the right of the engraving is 
Massachusetts Hall, the most ancient of the present buildings ; was 
built in 1720. Harvard Hall, the building with a cupola, was 
built in 1765. The University Hall is seen in the distance, stand- 
ing between Massachusetts and Harvard Halls ; this was built in 
1814, of Chelmsford granite, the color of which approaches nearly 
to white. It measures 140 by 50 feet, and is 42 feet in height. 



ands. 


Articles. 


Value. 


Hands. 


290 


Bricks, 


$43,000, 


91 


73 


Ropes and Twine, 


47,000, 


40 


36 


Soap, 


32,000, 


50 


8 


Brushes, 


21,500, 


26 


4 


Varnish, &;c., 


30,000, 


2 


57 


Confectionaries, 


60,000, 


22 


8 


Paper, stamped and stained, 10,000, 


11 


12 


Glue, >fec., 


6,000, 


6 


10 


Pocket-books, 


4,500, 


4 


22 


Stoves and Sheet Iron, 


13,500, 


4 


15 


Leather tanned, &c.. 


15,200, 


4 



CAMBRIDGE. 



367 




Harvard TJniversitij, Cambridge. 



and 



Holworthy Hall was erected in 1812 ; HoUis Hall in 1764 
Stoughton Hall in 1804. 

Harvard University is the most ancient and best endowed of 
any scientific institution in the United States, and has flourished 
for tico centuries. It has received numerous and large donations 
fiom individuals, and has received the protection and munifi- 
cence of the state. The funds at the present time exceed half 
a million of dollars. The library of the college contains forty- 
two thousand volumes, and is the largest in the United States ; 
its philosophical apparatus, chemical laboratory, anatomical muse- 
um, and cabinet of minerals, are all very valuable. A botanical 
garden is attached to the institution ; the sciences of theology, law, 
and medicine, have each distinct departments, and courses of lec- 
tures on those subjects are annually given. It is governed by a 
corporation and board of overseers. The medical lectures com- 
mence in Boston on the first Wednesday in November. A course 
is given at the college between the first of April and last of July. 
There are three vacations : ihe first, of two weeks, from the 
Wednesday preceding the 25th of December ; the second, of two 
weeks, from the first Wednesday in April ; the third, of six weeks, 
next preceding commencement, the last Wednesday in August. 

The following curious document relative to the commons of the 
students is preserved in the archives of the state. One Mr. Na- 
thaniel Eaton and his wife were, it appears, brought before the gene- 
ral court at Boston, to answer for their misdemeanors. Eaton was 
accused of cruelty towards his usher, and likewise for keeping the 
students on poor diet, &c., and being proved against him, he was 
removed from his office. His wife was also examined before the 
court. Some overseer of the college, probably, either magistrate 
or minister, wrote it from the confession or dictation of the ac- 
cused lady. It shows that trouble on account of college commons 
is not confined to any particular period. Mrs. Eaton confessed thus : 

" For their breakfast, that it was not so well ordered, the flower not so fine as it 
might, nor so well boiled or stirred, at all times that it was so, it was my sin of neglect, 



358 C AM BRIDGE. 

and want of that care that ought to have been in one that the Lord had intrusted with 
such a work. Concerning their beef, that was allowed them, as they affirm, which, I 
confess, had been my duty to have seen they should have had it, and continued to have 
had it, because it was my husband's command ; but truly I must confess, to my shame, 
I cannot remember that ever they had it. nor that ever it was taken from them. And 
that they had not so good or so much provision in my husband's absence as presence, 
I conceive it was, because he would call sometimes for butter or cheese, when I con- 
ceived there was no need of it ; yet, forasmuch as the scholars did otherways appre- 
hend, I desire to see the evil that was in the carriage of that as well as in the other, and 
to take shame to myself for it. And that they sent down for more, when they had not 
enough, and the maid should answer, if they had not, they should not, I must confess, 
that I have denied them cheese, when they have sent for it, and it have been in the 
house ; for which I shall humbly beg pardon of them, and own the shame, and confess 
my sin. And for such provoking words, which my servants have given, I cannot own 
them, but am sorry any such should be given in my house. And for bad fish, that 
they had it brought to table, I am sorry there was that cause of offence given them. I 
acknowledge my sin in it. And for their mackerel, brought to them with their guts in 
them, and goat's dung in their hasty pudding, its utterly unknown to me ; but I am 
much ashamed it should be in the family, and not prevented by myself or servants, 
and I humbly acknowledge my negligence in it. And that they made their beds at any 
time, were my straits never so great, I am sorry they were ever jjut to it. For the Moor, 
his lying in Samuel Hough's sheet and pillow-hier, it hath a truth in it : he did so one 
time, and it gav^e Samuef Hough just cause of offence ; and that it was not prevented 
by my care and watchfulness, I desire [to] take the shame and the sorrow for it. And 
that they eat the IMoor's crusts, and the swine and they had share and share alike, and 
the Moor to have beer, and they denied it, and if they had not enough, for my maid to 
answer, they should not, I am an utter stranger to these things, and know not the least 
footsteps for them so to charge me ; and if my servants were guilty of such miscar- 
riages, had the boarders complained of it unto myself, I should have thought it my sin, 
if I had not sharply reproved my servants, and endeavoured reform. And for bread 
made of heated, .sour meal, although I know of but once that it was so, since I kept 
house, yet John Wilson affirms it was twine ; and I am truly sorry, that any of it was 
spent amongst them. For beer and bread, that it was denied them by me betwixt 
meals, truly I do not remember, that ever I did deny it unto them ; and John Wilson 
will affirm, that, generally, the bread and beer was free for the boarders to go unto. 
And that money was demanded of them for washing the linen, it's true it was pro- 
pounded to them, but never imposed upon them. And for their pudding being given 
the last day of the week without butler or suet, and that I said, it was miln of Man- 
chester in Old England, its true that I did say so, and am sorry they had any cau.se of 
offence given them by having it so. And tor their wanting beer, betwixt brewings, a 
week or half a week together, I am sorry that it was so at any time, and should trem- 
ble to have it so, were it in my hands to do again." 

There is in this place a printing establislumeut, called the Uni- 
versity Press, which has become celebrated for the beauty and ac- 
curacy with which it sends out classical books in the various 
ancient and modern languages. This estabhshment may be con- 
sidered as the jnost ancient printing establishment in America. In 
1639, says Winthrop's Journal, " A printing house was begun at 
Cambridge, by one Dmje, at the charge of ]Mr. Glover, who died 
on sea hithcrward. The first thing printed was the freeman's 
oath ; the next was an almanack made for New England, by Mr. 
WilUam Peirce, mariner ; the next was the Psalms newly turned 
into metre." Mr. Glover was a worthy and wealthy non-conform- 
ist minister. He contributed liberally towards a sum sufficient to 
purchase printing materials, and for this purpose solicited the aid 
of others in England and Holland. He gave to the college " a 
font of printing letters, and some gentlemen of Amsterdam gave 
towards furnishing of a printing press with letters forty-nine 
pounds and something more." — Records of Harvard College. 



CAMBRIDGE. 



359 




Washington Elm, Cambridge. 

The above is an eastern view of the Washington elm, now 
standing near the westerly corner of the common in Cambridge. 
The following, descriptive of this tree, its antiquity, (fcc., is from 
the 3d vol. of the American Magazine., p. 432. 

" The Washington elm stands in the westerly corner of the large common near Har- 
vard University, in Cambridge, Massachusetts ; and is probably one of the trees that 
belonged to the native forest. Amid the changes which have taken place in the world, 
and particularly in America and New England, it has stood like a watchman ; and if 
it could speak, it would be an interesting chronicler of events. The early settlers of 
this country had hardly finished their rude log-houses before they proposed to make the 
village in which it stands the metropolis of the country ; and but few years elapsed 
before they laid the foundation of Harvard University, so near that it may almost be 
shaded by its branches. Not far from it was the spot where the public town meetings 
•were held ; and also the tree tinder which the Indian council fires were lighted, more 
than two hundred years ago. When the drum was used in Cambridge, instead of the 
bell, to summon the congregation to the place of worship, or to give warning of '\ sa- 
vage enemy, the sound floated throughout its trailing limbs ; and when the officei's of 
the college discharged the duty of inflicting corporal punishment on young men with 
their own hands, who knows but their lugubrious lamentations may have mingled with 
the breezes that disturbed its foliage? Of how many college sports and tricks might 
it tell ; .such deeds, too, as no one who had not been educated in the halls of Old Har- 
vard would ever have dreamed of ? Among tjie gi'aver subjects of which it might 
make report, are the lessons of truth and piety which fell from the lips of Whitfield, 
when he stood in its shade and moved a vast multitude by his eloquence. And sub- 
sequently. it seems, it has been heralding war and liberty ; for the revolutionary sol- 
diers who stood shoulder to shoulder, — blessings be on their heads, — tell us that when 
Washington arrived at Cambridge, he drew his sword as commander-in-chief ol 
the American anny, for the first time, beneath its boughs, and resolved within him 
self that it should never be sheathed till the liberties of his country were established 
Glorious old tree, that has stood in sight of the smoke of Lexington and Bunker's HiH 
battles, and weathered the storms of many generations, — worthy of reverence. Though, 
in the spirit of modern improvement, guideboards may be nailed to thy trunk, thou 
pointest to the past and to the future. All around are scattered memorials of what 
has been. Generations of men have died and been buried, and soldiers of the revolu- 
tion sleep near thee. Thou lookesl down upon monuments in the churchyard, robbed 
of their leaden armorial bearings that they might be converted into rausket balls in the 
day of our national poverty and struggle ; and the old spikes still fastened into the 
beams of Massachusetts Hall, tell of suspended hammocks where the weary soldier 
took his rest. Across the river, where one Blackstone lived, and where Governor Win- 
ihrop took up his residence, because he found a good spring of water there, the forest 



360 



CAMBRIDGE 



has been cut away, the Indian wigman has disappeared, and a city grown up, contain- 
ing more than 80,000 inhabitants, whose sails whiten e\^ery sea, whose merchants are 
princes, and whose traffickers are the honorable of the earth. May no unkind hand 
mar the last tree of the native forest. Though it may have stood century after cen- 
tur}', like a sentinel on duty, defying the hghtning and the storm, still let it stand, an 
interesting and sacred memorial of the past and the present, and continue to be asso- 
ciated, for many years to come, with the history of our country. And let the illustri- 
ous name which it bears, and which it derives from one of the most important events 
in the life of the father of his country, preserve it to remind the coming generations 
of his invaluable services and labors." 




Entrance to Mount Auburn Cemetery. 

The above Egyptian gateway is the principal entrance to Mount 
Auburn, at the commencement of the central avenue, on the main 
road. It has two lodges at its sides, and bears the following in- 
scription : " Then shall the dust return to the earthy as it was ; and 
the spirit unto God who gave it." This hallowed spot, dedicated 
Sept. 24th, 1831, has become the retired cemetery for many fami- 
lies residing in Boston and the vicinity. The beauty, novelty, and 
great variety of scenery of this place, it is believed, far exceeds 
any thing in this country. It was formerly known as " Sweet Au- 
burn," and was long a favorite walk for the students of Harvard 
and other inhabitants of Cambridge, being but about one mile and 
a quarter from the university. The following account of this 
cemetery is taken from the American Magazine, vol. i. page 9 : 

'• The cemetery of Mount Auburn, justly celebrated as the most interesting object of 
the kind in our country, is situated in Cambridge and Watertown, about four miles 
from the city of Boston. It includes upw-ards of one hundred acres of land, puixhased 
at diliereiit times by the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, extending from the main 
road nearly to the banks of Charles river. A portion of the land next to the road, and 
now under cultivation, constitutes the experimental garden of the society. A long 
water-course between this tract and the interior woodland forms a natural boundary, 
separating the two sections. The inner portion, which is set apart for the purposes of 
a cemetery, is covered, throughout most of its extent, with a vigorous growth of forest 
trees, many of them of large size, and comprising an unusual variety of kinds. This 
tract is beautifully undulating in its surface, containing a number of bold eminences, 
steep aclivities, and deep shadowy valleys. A remarkable natural ridge, with a level 
surface, runs through the ground from south-east to north-west, and has for many 
years been known as a secluded and favorite walk. The principal eminence, called 
Mount Auburn, in the plan, which has been published, is 12.5 feet above the level of 
<?harles river, and commands from its summit one of the finest prospects which can 



CAMBRIDGE 



361 



be obtained in the environs of Boston. On one side is tne city in lull view, connected 
at its extremities with Charlestown and Roxbury. The serpentine course of Charles 
river, with the cultivated hills and fields rising beyond it, and the Blue Hills of Milton 
in the distance, occupies another portion of the landscape. The village of Cambridge, 
with the venerable edifices of Harvard University, are situated about a mile to the 
eastward. On the north, at a very small distance, Fresh Pond appears, a handsome 
sheet of water, finely diversified by its woody and irregular shores. Country seats 
and cottages in various directions, and especially those on the elevated land at Water- 
town, add much to the picturesque efiect of the scene. It is proposed, at some future 
period, to erect on the summit of JMounl Aubirrn a tower after some classic model, 
of sufficient height to rise above the tops of the surrounding trees. This will serve 
the double purpose of a land-mark, to identify the spot Irom a distance, and of an ob- 
servatory, commanding an uninterrupted view of the country around it. From the 
foot of this monument will be seen in detail the features of the land>cape, as they are 
successively presented through the different vistas which have been opened among the 
trees ; while from its summit a magnificent and unhruken panorama, embra.'iug one 
of the most delightful tracts in New England, will he spread out beneath the eye. 
Not only the contiguous country, but the harbor and the bay of Boston, with their 
ships and islands, and, in a clear atmosphere, the distant mountains of Wachusett, 
and, probably, even of 3Ionadnock, will be comprehended within the range of vision. 
" The grounds of the cemetery have been laid oiU with intersecting avenues, so as to 
render every part of the wood accessible. These avenues are curved and variously 
winding in their course, so as to be adapted to the natural inequalities of the surface. 
By this arrangement, the greatest economy of the land is produced, combining at the 
same time the picturesque eflect of landscape gardening. Over the more level por- 
tions, the avenues are made twenty feet wide, and are suitable for carriage roads. The 
more broken and precipitous parts are approached by footpath.s, six feet in width. 
These passage-ways are smoothly gravelled, and will be planted on both sides with 
flowers and ornamental shrubs. Lots of ground, containing each three hundred 
square feet, are set off, as family burial-places, at suitable distances on the sides of 
the avenues and paths. The perpetual right of inclosing and of using these lots, as 
places of sepulture, is conveyed to the purchasers of them, by the Horticultural So- 
ciety." 

The annexed engraving is a representation of the monument 
erected over the remains of Dr. Spurzheim, the celebrated phre- 
nologist; it is about the first object tliat meets the eye after entering 
the cemetery. It is constructed of polished Italian marble, and 
is made after the model of Scipio's tomb at Rome. Dr. Spur- 
zheim was born in Prussia, 
and educated at Treves. He 
afterwards studied medicine 
at Vienna, where he became 
acquainted with Dr. Gall, and 
entered with zeal into the doc- 
trines of that professor. In 
1807, Dr. Gall, assisted by 
Spurzheim, delivered his first 
public lectures on phrenology 
in Paris. Dr. Spurzheim af- 
terwards delivered lectures in 
various places in Europe, and 
received the honors of a num- 
ber of literary institutions. — 
He arrived in New York Aug. 
4th, 1832. After giving a se- 
ries of lectures in Boston and Cambridge, he died of a fever, Oct. 
lOtli, 1S32. His body was embalmed, and a cast of his head 







Tomb of Spurzheim. 



362 CAM FRIDGE. 

taken. Appropriate services were performed at the Old South 
meeting-house, in the midst of an immense concourse of specta- 
tors, and from thence his body was conveyed to Mount Auburn. 

The following inscriptions are from monuments in this town : 

Hie jacent reliquise honoratiss. et rev. admodum dom. Johannis Leverett, annig. 
(jui niajoribus oriundus illustribus, illustrius nomen reddidit quam accepit. Virtus et 
pietas, sapientia et gravdtas juventuti, fuere laurea, nee non senectuti, corona ; majes- 
tas et authoritas in oculo, voce, vullu ; benignitas et humanitas in corde resedernnt. 
In secundis moderatus, in adversis constanti et infracto i'uit animo. Maritus et paler 
amantissimus ; animus dulcis et fidus, prudens consiliarius, fortis auxiliarius, lingua- 
luin et artium academicarum inter peritissimos, nee minus in jurisprudentia et theolo- 
gia quam in philosophia conspicuiis. 

Omnes fere honoris gradus conscendit et ornavit. Juvenem admodum mirata est et 
plausit academia tutorem primarium et sociura ; ut et postea communiura domus pro- 
locutorem, de probatione testamentorum judicem, et m superiori tribunali justitiarum 
regi consiliis assistentem, et in variis legationibus honorificis et momentosis sagaciter 
et integre versantem, contemplata est universa patria. Tandem collegii principalis, 
et societatis regia; socius coaplatus, scholar prophetarum ad annos sedecimpari authori- 
tate et lenitate prcesidebat ; donee morte instantanea Deo visum sit a filiis propheta- 
rum dominum e lecio et somno in cffilum assumere, Maii tertio, 1724, setatis, 62. 



M. S. viri admodum reverendi pariter atque honorandi Edwardi Holyoke, qui 
praestanti decoratus ingenio ; doctrina instructissimus ; arte moderandi apprime felix ; 
prseclarus eloquentia ; mira in rebus suo tempore exequendis aceuratione prajditus ; 
raoribus ornatus sanctissimis, integritate pra?sertim ab omni parte intacta; collegii 
Harvardini prcesidis, a jacto fundamento, undecimi munus, amplius triginta annis, 
cum summa laude sustinuit ac dignitate. 

In vita insuper privata edidit imitandum omnibus exemplum conjugis amantissimi ; 
erga liberos pietatis ; urbanitatis in hospites ingenua; comisque ; summi erga amicos 
studii et constantis ; pauperibus elargiendi soepissime ; religionis erga Dcum, mediante 
Christo insignis. 

Vita demum optime peracta, animam Jesu commendavit expiravitque Calendis Ju- 
niis, anno Christi, 1769, ajtatisque suse 80. 

Huic tumulo ' mandantur exuviae Johannis Wadsworth, A. M. Duxburgia nati, 
collegii Harvardini alumni, cujus septem per annos fideliter utilissimeque tutoris offici- 
um pra?stitit, et modo aptissimo, facillimo, gratissimoque, optimis prreceplis ac institu- 
tis juvenum animos imbuit, moresque ipsorum amice ac sedulo curavit. Hujus tem- 
poris tres per annos et ultra senatus academi socii munera perite explevit. Ingenio 
sagaci et acutissirao Uteris scientiisque penitus instructo ; etiam facilitate mira scn- 
tentias impertiendi, omnium observantiam in sese attraxit. Amicitia ingenua atque 
constanti, et consuetudinis suavitate facetiisque, amor ac delicige fuil amicorura. In- 
ter alias virtutes pietas erga parentes et ati'ectio fraterna prsecipue fuerunt insignes. 
Viri tam boni ac utilis, omnibusque cari, in a^tatem senectam spes vitam produxerat. 
Ah, spes inanis! Variolis, illo generis humani flagello, correptus, animam efflavit, 
die Julii 12 mo. anno salutis 1777, retatisque suse 37. 

Thom^ Marsh, armigeri, septuaginta annos nati, quorum per viginti quinque. apud 
collegium Harvardinum, tutoris docti, seduli, et urbani ; undecim etiam socii vigilan- 
tis partes agebat ; qui, ofRciis publicis diligenter, domesticis peramanler exactis, Sep- 
tembris vigesimo secundo, 1780, in spe revivendi Christiana mortem oppetiit, reliquiaj 
hoc tumulo reconduntur. 

An honest man 's the noblest work of God. 
GuLiELMtJs Kneeland, armiger, M. M. S. S. vir ingenio pra-ditus eximio, artibusque 
ac scientiis penitus imbutus, in republica litcraria locum perinsignem jure obtinuit. 
In universitate Harvardiana otficium tutoris novem per annos exornavit. Exinde in 
arte medendi magna cum laude erat versatus ; atque societatis medicorum Massachu- 
settensis prgeses bis fuit electus. Sagax ad res hominesque perspiciendos, multos ro- 
gantes consilio adjuvit. Officia omnia, tam privata quam publica, fidelitate, ordine, 
ac puncto temporis constituto pranstitit. Amicus fuit sincerus, hospes liberalis, socius 
jucundus, vir honestus, et pauperum patronus. Talis quum vixisset 36 annos; ani- 



CARLISLE. 863 

mus sublimis, die secundo Novembris, 1788, subito effligit ; ast, eheu, quantum in- 
genii, quantum integritatis, quantum benevolentise terris convolavit ! 



Huic sepulchro mandantur exuviae Jahacobi Sheafe Willard, rev. prss. Joseptii 
Willard filii ; juvenis ingenio solido prsediti, probitate et virtute conspicui; tempons in 
usu assidui, sodalibus omnibus dilecti, matris^ sororum, et fratrum spei. 

Ah spem dolosam ! Morbo crudeli subito correptus animam efliavit spe immortalUa- 
tis beatse firmissima, anno cursus academici tertio, die Julii 26, anno salutis 1805, seta- 
tis 18. 

M. S. die 7 mo. Julii, A. D. 1810, ineunte a^tatis anno 27 mo. obiit academise Har- 
vardina; alumnus, Samuel Harris, palre Samuele Harris et matre Sarah, natus Bos- 
toniae. Literarum a puero mire studiosus ; et vixdum adultus omnibus fere Unguis 
orientalibus eruditus, rerum antiquarum abdita et mirabilia quibus maxime delecta- 
retur curiose et fehciter perscrutatus, cseteris suae a3latis facile prEccelluit. Cuin spes 
amieorum maxime foveretur futurum patria; honorem et decus, cursu academico jam 
prope peracto, infelici morte correptus, fluctibus Caroli fluminis submersus, eheu ! 
mortalia reliquit. Tanta illi pietas et benevolentia, tanta morum suavitas, tanta mo- 
destia, ut nullum suis, vel amandi vivus, vel mortuus lugendi statuerit modum. Hoc 
Uteris, hoc moribus, hoc eximicE virtuti, amicitia; quam impar monumentum ! sacra- 
verunt juvenes, araici, sodales. Heu ! quanto minus est cum aliis versari, quam lui 
meminisse. 



CARLISLE 



The party divisions in Concord, occasioned principally by the 
religious controversies from 1740 to 1750, were the cause of the 
formation of several separate societies and districts. Carlisle was 
incorporated as a district of Concord in 1754. The first object of 
the inhabitants was the selection of a suitable place for erecting 
their meeting-house. After a great many fruitless attempts to fix 
the location, a committee was appointed to petition the general 
court that the district might be set back to the town of Concord, 
with all their former privileges. An act for this purpose was 
passed by the general court, in 1757. After the dissolution of 
"Old Carlisle," no definite attempts were made to obtain a sepa- 
ration till about fifteen years afterwards. During this time, the 
occasional preaching of the gospel had been supported, and a 
meeting-house was begun as early as 1760, though not completed 
till 1783. Several petitions were presented to the adjoining towns 
to obtain their consent by the inhabitants of Blood's farms and 
the extreme parts of Concord, Acton, Chelmsford, and Billerica, 
and an act was passed incorporating them as a district of Acton, 
by the name of Carlisle. In 1805, they were incorporated as a 
town. 

The surface of the town is generally uneven and rocky, though 
there are no considerable elevations ; and the soil is unfavorable 
to agriculture. Concord river washes its eastern bounds. Agri- 
culture is the principal business of the inhabitants. There are 
two churches, 1 for the Orthodox and 1 Unitarian, and about a 
dozen dwelling-houses, in the center of the town. Distance, 5 miles 
north of Concord, and 18 miles north-west of Boston. Population, 
596. The Rev. Paul Litchfield, the first settled minister, was or- 
dained Nov. 7, 1781. He died Nov. 7, 1827, on the 46th anniver- 
sary of his ordination. He was succeeded by Rev. Stephen Hull, 
in 1830. 



364 CHAKLESTOWN. 

CHARLESTOWN. 

Charlestown was settled in 1628, being the oldest town in Mid- 
dlesex county, and one of the oldest in the state. It was incorpo- 
rated in 1635, It derives its name from Charles I. of England, the 
reigning sovereign at the time of its settlement. Its Indian name 
was Mishaioum. In 1628 " six or seven persons, with the consent 
of Gov. Endicott, traveled from Naumkeak (Salem) through the 
woods Avestward, and came to a neck of land, between Mystic 
and Charles rivers, called Mishawum. It was full of Indians, 
called Abergitiians ; and with the unconstrained consent of their 
chief they settled there." Their old sachem being dead, his eldest 
son, John Sagamore, was chief in power. He is described as a 
man of gentle and good disposition, and was probably induced to 
give his consent to the settlement on account of the advantages he 
had derived from the skill of Thomas Walford, a blacksmith, who 
had previously taken up his residence, and built himself a house, 
which he had thatched and palisadoed, at the south end of the 
West Hill, not far from the river. 

In 1629, a considerable number of persons arrived at Salem 
from England. Being dissatisfied with their situation at this place, 
Thomas Graves, with some of the company's servants under his 
care, and others, to the number of one hundred in all, removed to 
Mishawum, where they laid out the foundation of a town. Mr. 
Graves laid out the town in two-acre lots, one of which he assigned 
to each inhabitant ; and afterward he built a great house for the 
accommodation of those who were soon to come over to New 
England. In 1630, a fleet, bringing more than 1,500 persons, 
arrived in Massachusetts Bay the sixth of July. Among the pas- 
sengers were Governor Winthrop and several other distinguished 
gentlemen. The governor and several of the patentees took lodg- 
ings in Charlestown, in the great house built there the year before ; 
and the rest of the company erected cottages, booths, and tents 
about the Town Hill. Their place of assembly for divine worship 
was under a tree. The first court of assistants was holden at 
Charlestown on the 23d of August, on board the Arabella. On the 
27th of August, a day of solemn fasting and prayer was observed, 
when the governor, deputy governor, and others, entered into 
church covenant; Mr. Wilson was chosen pastor; a ruling elder 
and two deacons were also chosen ; and thus was laid the founda- 
tion of the churches of Charlestown and Boston. 

It was the general intention of the company to settle at Charles- 
town, where the governor ordered his house to be framed ; but 
the prevalence of a mortal sickness, ascribed to the badness of 
the water,* induced several of the people to explore the neighbor- 
ing country for more eligible situations ; and from this circum- 

* "The neck of land on which Charlestown is built abounds with good water, but 
the settlers had found only a brackish spring by the water-side, to which they had no 
access excepting when the tide was down." — Prince, 244. 



CHARLESTOWN. 365 

Stance, probably, the settlement of Watertown, Boston, and Rox- 
bury, was commenced this year, (1630.) 

The natural divisions of this town are distinguished as Charles- 
town Peninsula and Charlestown " without the neck." These 
divisions are of very unequal size : the peninsula, on which the 
town is principally built, is only about one mile and a quarter in 
length ; the tract beyond the neck is upwards of seven miles in 
length. The width varies from half a mile to a mile in various 
parts of the town. Charlestown peninsula is somewhat of an 
oval form, and is about half as large as that on which Boston is 
situated. It has, like Boston, three principal hills, viz. Bunker's 
Hill, Breed's Hill, and the West or Town Hill. Bunker's Hill is 
on the north-east part; it is 113 feet high, and is the largest of 
the three. Breed's Hill (on which was the battle of Bunker Hill, 
and where the monument is erected) commences near the south- 
erly portion of Bunker's, and extends towards the south and west; 
its height is 87 feet. Town Hill is in the south-west part of the 
peninsula ; its height has been somewhat reduced from what it was 
originally, but it never was as high as Breed's Hill. Its western 
base reached to the shore of Charles river. The avenues from 
Charles River bridge and Warren bridge meet in Cltarlestown 
Square, an open space of two or three acres, regularly laid out 
soon after the opening of the town, in 1776, for the purposes of a 
market place. Around this square a number of the public build- 
ings are situated. There are 9 churches, 3 Congregational, 2 
Baptist, 2 Universalist, 1 Methodist, and 1 Catholic. There are 3 
banks : the Bunker Hill Bank, with a capital of $150,000 : the 
Phosnix Bank, capital $300,000 ; and the Charlestown, with a capi- 
tal of $150,000. Charlestown is united to Boston by Charles and 
Warren bridges. Warren bridge is 1,390 feet in length and 44 in 
width. It was incorporated in 1828, and opened the same year. 
It is now the property of the state. Charlestown is also united to 
Boston as a port of entry, and in its various commercial pursuits. 
Population, 10,101. 

" The United States Navy Yard was first established in this town 
about the year 1798. The yard is situated on the north side of 
Charles river, on a plot of ground of about 60 acres. It is en- 
closed by a high wall of durable masonry, and contains several 
ware-houses, dwelling-houses for the officers, and a large amount 
of naval stores, live oak, and other timber. It also contains three 
large ship-houses, in which are the Vermont and Carolina of 74, 
and the Cumberland frigate of 44 guns. These ships can be 
launched and ready for sea in a very short time. The dry dock 
at this place is of hewn granite, and of unrivalled masonry. It 
is 341 feet in length, 80 in width, and 30 in depth. It cost 
$670,089. This dock was completed and received the Constitu- 
tion on the 24th of June, 1833. Connected with this establishment 
are a naval hospital and magazine at Chelsea, now in progress. 
A large ropewalk is now in the yard, and other additions are con- 
templated This is considered one of the best naval depots in the 
United States." — Hayward'S Mass. Directory^ 1835. 



366 



c II A n T, t; s T n --.v n 




McLean Asylum, Charlestomi. 

"This establishment is located on a beautiful rise of ground, in 
Charlestown, near East Cambridge, and about a mile and a half 
from the City Hall. The buildings are large, and are exceedingly 
well adapted to their philanthropic desisn. They cost about 
1186,000. 

"This house was opened for patients on the Gth of October, 1S18, and from that 
time to January 1, 1834, 1015 patients were received. Of this nunrber, 2(i4 were mar- 
ried, and 340 unmarried, males; 238 married, and 173 unmarried, females. Of this 
number, 70 were from 10 to 20 years of age ; 616 from 20 to 40, (of which 368 wer** 
males, and 248 females ;) 191 from 40 to 50 ; 91 from 50 to 60 ; and 47 from 60 to 
80. Of this number, 362 recovered, 143 were much improved, 140 benefitted, 89 died, 
21 eloped, 193 were not improved, and 67 remained in the asylum. Of this number 
112 had been intemperate ; 122 had insane ancestors ; and 59 had near collaterals, but 
no ancestors stated as insane. The average current expenses of each patient at this 
asylum is estimated at f 4 50 a week. The lowest rate for which patients belonging 
to this state are received, is $3 a week — from other states, S4 50 a week. The num- 
ber of patients received from Januar)'' 1, 1834, to June 19, 1835, was 150. The num- 
ber of patients at the latter date was 88, which was a greater number than at any 
former period. Rufus Wyman, M. D., wns superintendent and physician from the 
commencement of the asylum to IMay, 1833. to whom the public is much indebted for 
the great intelligence and fidelity by which he has advanced its usefulness. 

" Belonging to, and surrounding this asylum, are about 15 acres of land appropri- 
ated to courts and gardens. These are laid out with gravelled walks; the former are 
furnished with summer-houses, and the latter are ornamented with groves of fruit and 
ornamental trees, shrubbery, and flowers. Surrounding the lower garden, and within 
the enclosure, is a carriage path, where patients are taken to ride. Ii\ the center is a 
small fresh-water pond, containing several hundred gold and silver fish, and immedi- 
ately contiguous is a summer-house, where the patients at times resort for games and 
amusements. 

" The system of moral treatment adopted and pursued is founded upon principles of 
elevated benevolence and philanthropy, and an acquaintance ■with human nature and 
the capabilities and wants of the insane. The previous tastes, habits, and pursuits, 
and the present inclinations and feelings of each individual, are habittially consulted. 
A library for the use of the patients has recently been purchased, and those of their 
who are disposed to read are permitted at stated periods to send in their names and 
the number of the book desired ; the list is examined and approved by the physician, 
and the books are distributed by the librarian. In the same way, writing material.'? 
are distributed, and patients are engaged in keeping journals, writing sketches of their 
lives, poetiy, 'iddressing letters to their friends, and in drawing, &;c. Some engage 
in games, as bowling, throwing the ring, battledoor, graces, jumping the rope, chess, 
<lraughts, back-gammon, &c., or are occupied in walking and riding into the country, 



CHARLESTOWN. o6/ 

or in making fishin°; excursions in the compan\' of their attendants ; while others are 
working on the farm and in the garden. The female patients, besides being employed 
in various kinds of needle and ornamental work, are engaged in various domestic, 
labors. About 30 of the cpiiet and convalescent patients now regidarly attend the reli- 
gious exercises of the family, and a portion of them join in the vocal and instrumental 
music of the occasion ; a part of this number als(j attend church on the Sabbath, in 
company with the nurses and attendants, and dine with the family. A regulated in- 
tercourse with the family and society is regarded as an important auxiliary in the means 
of cure, and on suitable occasions they are invited into the house, where parties are 
made for their special amusement and benefit." — Hayward's Mass. Directory. 




State Prison at CfiarUstown. 



This establishment is situated at the west or north-west of 
Charlestown village, or town, near the tide waters of a bay con- 
nected with Charles river, and is enclosed by a high, solid stone 
wall ; and consists of four large stone buildings, besides a chapel 
and an extensive work-shed. The point of land on which the 
prison is located is connected with tlie village of East Cambridge 
by a lateral bridge of 1,820 feet in length, comiected with Canal 
bridge. The following account of this prison. <^c.. i.s from the 
2d vul. of the Ainerirmt Ahtgazine. 

"This Slate prison, or penitentiniy, has been e.stabhshed nearly thirty years, aiid on 
a similar principle to that in Philadelphia, foujided twenty years before. Some alter- 
ations in the crimiiial laws of the .state were made ai that time : and confinemenl to 
hard hibor in this prLson was substituted for imprisonment in the cuuniy jails, where 
no employment was provided for the convicts, and tor whipping and sitting in the pil- 
lory. The number of capital crimes are now live, on conviction of which death Ibl- 
lows as the legal punishment. For crimes of less enormity, the punishment is con- 
finement in the state prison, with hard labor. It is intended by this establishment to 
kee[) the wicked secure from depredating on society, to require labor to meet the ex- 
penses of the mstitution, and at the same time to allow opportunity and provide means 
for the reformation of the prisoners. The object is a combinetl one — punishment and 
reform ; or rather the safety of society, and the reformation of the guilty. The design 
is most praiseworthy, and lionorable to the hmnanity of the present enlightened age. 
In the opinion of those best qualified to judge and most entitled to belief, the institu- 
tion has proved useful, and such as was hoped it would be by the founders. The 
criminal is safe from doing mischief to others ; he is obliged to labor, and thus 
acquires habits of industry; he is kept in solitary confinement when not at work ; and 
has religious instruction and advice to aid him in his desires to reform. 

" For some years, the buildings were not sufficient to provide a separate cell for each ; 
but that defect is remedied by new buildings. And order generall)^ as well as indi- 
vidual reform, is now much better promoted and secured. Few who have been dis- 
charged, within the last few years, have been returned to the prison, or convicted ol 
new crimes, and there is reason to believe that many afterwards became sober, moral, 
and industrious citizens. The profits of the labor of the convicts are greater than tlit 



368 CHARLESTOWN. 

expenses, for the two last years, by about seven thousand dollars. The govemmen 
of the convicts is firm and strict, but not severe. The error of a severe discipline, 
and of power in the immediate officers to inflict corporal punishment, has been seen 
and abandoned ; and yet extra confinement is allowed for gross disobedience or refu- 
sal to work. The state prison of Massachusetts was never better regulated, nor 
answered more truly to the character of a penitentiary. 

" The number of convicts in the prison in Oct., 1834, was two hundred and seventy- 
seven, twenty-five more than a year previous to that time. During the year ending in 
October, 1834, the number committed was one hundred and nineteen, fifteen of which 
had been confined in the prison before. This is a much smaller portion than twelve 
and fifteen years ago. And though some of those discharged in 1832 and 1833, on 
the expiration of their sentence, left the state, and viay have committed crimes in other 
parts of the country, still there is reason to believe that now not more than one in 
twelve or fifteen are found repeating their crimes ; and that the residue become re 
formed, and are sober and industrious citizens. About a fourth part of the convicts 
are said to be aliens, and not naturalized. 

" The convicts are obliged to labor the greater part of the twenty-four hours, in which 
they can have the benefit of day-light; except the time spent in religious worship and 
in eating. The number of hours of work in a day differ, therefore, in tha different 
seasons of the year. They are employed in stone-cutting, at blacksmith work, cabinet- 
makers, brush-makers, tailoring, shoe-making, upholstering, batting-making, and tin- 
workers." 

North-west of the Neck, about 2\ miles from Boston, is Mount 
Benedict. On the summit of this commanding eminence was 
situated the Ursidine Convent^ which was constituted in 1826. It 
was burnt by a lawless mob, on the 11th of August, 1834, who 
were excited to this outrage by the reports of improper conduct 
in the convent, and of the confinement of some females by threats 
and force, who wished to leave the institution. The disfigured 
walls of the convent still remain, standing as a beacon to warn 
every friend to civil and religious freedom of the fatal eflfects to 
be apprehended from the blind fury of a mob, who are suffered 
to trample upon the laws of the country and introduce a despot- 
ism of the worst kind. On Winter Hill in this town, north-west 
of Bimker's Hill, General Burgoyne's army encamped as prisoners 
of war, after their defeat and capture at Saratoga. Prospect Hill 
is situated a little to the south-west. 

On the 17th of June, 1775, the ever-memorable battle of Bunker 
Hill was fought in this town, and will render the heights ot 
Charlestown an object of interest to generations yet unborn. The 
following, stated to be a ^'■fidl and correct acconnf of this battle, 
is taken from a pamphlet published in Boston, June 17th, 1825. 

" After the affair at Lexington and Concord, on the 19th of April, 1775, the people, 
animated by one common impulse, flew to arms in every direction. The husband- 
man changed his ploughshare for a musket ; and about l'^,n00 men— 10,000 from 
Massachusetts, and the remainder from New Hampshire, RliDde Island, and Connec 
ticut— assembled under General Ward, in the environs of Boston, then occupied by 
10,000 highly-disciplined and well equipped British troops, under the command of 
Generals Gage, Howe, Clinton, Burgoyne, Pigot, and others. 

" Fearing an intention on the part of the British to occupy the 
important heights at Charlestown and Dorchester, which would 
enable them to command the surrounding country. Colonel Fres- 
co tt was detached, by his own desire, from the American camp at 
Cambridge, on the evening of the 16th of June, 1775, with about 
1000 militia mostly of Massachusetts, including 120 men of Put- 



CHARLESTOWN. 369 

nam's regiment from Connecticut, and one artillery company, to 
Bunker Hill, with a view to occupy and fortify that post. At this 
hill the detachment made a short halt, but concluded to advance 
still nearer the British, and accordingly took possession of Breed's 
Hill, a position which commanded the whole inner harbor of Bos- 
ton. Here, about midnight, they commenced throwing up a 
redoubt, which they completed, notwithstanding every possible 
effort from the British ships and batteries to prevent them, about 
noon the next day. 

" So silent had the operations been conducted through the night, 
that the British had not the most distant notice of the design 
of the Americans, until day-break presented to their view the 
half-formed battery and daring stand made against them. A 
dreadful cannonade, accompanied with shells, was immediately 
commenced from the British battery at Copp's Hill, and the ships 
of war and floating batteries stationed in Charles river. 

" The break of day on the 17th of June, 1775, presented a scene, 
which, for daring and firmness, could never be surpassed — 1,000 
unexperienced militia, in the attire of their various avocations, 
without discipline, almost without artillery and bayonets, scantily 
supplied with ammunition, and wholly destitute of provisions, 
defying the power of the formidable British fleet and army, deter- 
mined to maintain the liberty of their soil, or moisten that soil 
with their blood. 

" Without aid, however, from the main body of the army, it seemed impossible 
to maintain their position— ^the men, having been without sleep, toihng through the 
night, and destitute of the necessary food required by nature, had become nearly 
exhausted. Representations were repeatedly made, through the morning, to head- 
quarters, of the necessity of reinforcements and supplies. Major Brooks, the late 
revered governor of Massachusetts, who commanded a battalion of minute-men at 
Concord, set out for Cambridge about 9 o'clock, on foot, it being impossible to procure 
a horse, soliciting succor ; but as there were two other points exposed to the British, 
Roxbury and Cambridge, then the head-quarters, at which place all the little stores 
of the army were collected, and the loss of which would be incalculable at that 
moment, great fears were entertained lest they should march over the neck to Rox- 
bury, and attack the camp there, or pass over the bay in boats, there being at that 
time no artificial avenue to connect Boston with the adjacent country, attack the 
head-quarters, and destroy the stores : it was, therefore, deemed impossible to afford 
any reinforcement to Charlestown Heights, till the movements of the British ren- 
dered evidence of their intention certain. 

" The fire from the Glasgow frigate and two floating batteries in 
Charles river, were wholly directed with a view to prevent any 
communication across the isthmus that connects Charlestown with 
the main land, which kept up a continued shower of missiles, and 
rendered the communication truly dangerous to those who should 
attempt it. When the intention of the British to attack the 
heights of Charlestown became apparent, the remainder of Put- 
nam's regiment, Col. Gardiner's regiment, both of which as to 
numbers were very imperfect, and some New Hampshire militia, 
marched, notwithstanding the heavy fire across the neck, for 
Charlestown Heights, where they arrived, much fatigued, just 
after the British had moved to the first attack. The British com- 
menced crossing the troops from Boston about 12 o'clock, and 



370 C H A R L E S T O W N . 

landed at Morton's Point, S. E. from Breed's Hill. At 2 o'clock, 
from the best accounts that can be obtained, they landed between 
3 and 4,00U men, nnder the immediate command of Gen. Howe, 
and formed, in apparently invincible order, at the base of tlie hill. 

"The pof^ition of the Americans at this time was a redoubt on the summit of the 
height of about eight rods square, and a breastwork extending on the left of it, 
about seventy I'eet down the eastern declivity of the hill. This redoubt and breast- 
work was commanded by Prescott in person, w!io had superintended its construction, 
and who occupied it with the Massachusetts militia of his detachment, and a part 
of Little's regiment, which had arrived about one o'clock. Tliey were dreadfully 
deficient in equipments and nmmunition, had been toiling incessantly for many hours, 
and it is said by some accounts even then v, ere destitute of provisions. A little to 
the eastward of the redoubt, and northerly to the rear of it, was a rnil fence, extend- 
ing almost to jMysiic river ; to this fence another had been added during the night 
and forenoon, and some newly mown grass thrown a.gainst them, to afford some- 
thing like a cover to the troops. At this fence the 120 Connecticut militia were 
posted. 

"The movements of the British made it evident their intention 
was to march a strong colnmn along the margin of the Mystic, 
and turn the redoubt on the north, while another colnmn attacked 
it in front; accordingly, to prevent this design, a large force be- 
came necessary at the breastwork and rail fence. The whole of 
the reinforcements that arrived, amounting in all to 800 or 1,000 
men, were ordered by General Putnam, who had been extremely 
active throughout the night and morning, and who had accompa- 
nied the expedition to this point. 

"At this moment thousands of persons of botli sexes had collect- 
ed on the church-steeples, i3eacon Hill, house-tops, and every 
place in Boston and its neighborhood where a view of the battle- 
ground could be obtained, viewing, with painful anxiety, the 
movements of the combatants — wondering, yet admiring the ])old 
stand of the Americans, and trembling at the thoughts of the 
formidable army marshalled in array against them. 

" Before 3 o'clock, the British formed, in tvv^o cohmius. for the 
attack. One column, as had been anticipated, moved along the 
Mystic river, with the intention of taking the redoubt in the 
rear, while the otiier advanced up the ascent directly in front of 
the redoubt, where Prescott was ready lo receive them. General 
Warren, president of the provincial congress and of tlie commit- 
tee of safety, who had been appointed but a few days before a 
major general of the Massachusetts troops, had volunteered on 
the occasion as a nrivate soldier, and was in the redoubt with a 
musket, animiitii.g the men by his iniluence and example to the 
most daritig d(!termination. 

"Orders were given to the Americans to reserve their fire till 
the enemy advanced suificiently near to make their aim certain. 
Several volleys were fired by the Britisli, with but little success; 
and so long a time had elapsed, and the British allowed to advance 
so near the Americans without their fire being returned, that a 
doubt arose whether or ntU the latter intended to give battle — but 
the fatal moment soon arrived: when the British had advanced to 
within about eight rods, a sheet of fire was poured upon them, and 



CHABLBSTOWN. 371 

continued a short time, with such deadly effect that hundreds of 
the assailants lay weltering in their blood, and the remainder re- 
treated in dismay to the point where they had first landed. 

" From day-light to the time of the British advancing on the 
works, an incessant tire had been kept up on the Americans from 
the ships and batteries — this tire was now renewed with increased 
vigor. 

"After a short time the British officers had succeeded in rally- 
ing their men, and again advanced, in the same order as before, to 
the attack. Thinking to divert the attention of the Americans, 
the town of Charlestown, consisting of 500 wooden buildings, was 
now set on lire by tiie British. The roar of the flames, the crash- 
ing of falling timber, the awful appearance of desolation presented, 
the dreadful shrieks of the dying and wounded in the last attack, 
added to the knowledge of the formidable force advancing against 
them, combined to form a scene apparently too much for men 
bred in the quiet retirement of domestic life to sustain ; but the 
stillness of death reigned within the American works, and nought 
could be seen but the deadly presented weapon, ready to hurl 
fresh destruction on the assailants. The fire of the Americans 
was again reserved till the British came still nearer than before, 
when the same unerring aim was taken, and tlie British shrunk, 
terrified, from before its fatal effects, flying, completely routed, a 
second time to the banks of the river, and leaving, as before, the 
field strewed with their wounded and dead. 

" Again the ships and batteries renewed their fire, and kept a continual shower 
of balls on the works. Notwithstanding every exertion, the British olfieers found it 
impossible to rally the men for a third attack ; one third of their comrades had fallen ; 
and finally it was not till a reinforcement of more than 1,000 fresh troops, with a 
strong park of artillery, had joined them from Boston, that they could be induced to 
form anew. 

" In the mean time every effort was made on the part of the Americans to resist 
a third attack ; Gen. Putnam rode, notwithstanding tlie heavy fire of the ships and 
batteries, several times across the neck, to induce the militia to advance, but it was 
only a few of the resolute and brave who would encounter the storm. The Brilisii 
receiving reinforcements from their formidable main body — the town of Charlestown 
presenting one wide scene of destruction — the probability the Americans must shortly 
retreat — the shower of balls pouring over the neck — presented obstacles too appalling 
for raw troops to sustain, and embodied loo much danger to allow them to encoun- 
ter. Yet, notwithstanding all this, the Americans on the heights were elated with 
their success, and waited with coolness and determiiidtion Lire now formidable ad- 
vance of the enemy. 

" Once more the Briti.sh, aided by their reinforcements, advanced 
to the attack, but with great skill and caution. Their artillery was 
planted on the eastern declivity of the hill, between the rail fence 
and the breastwork, where it was directed along the line of the 
Americans, stationed at the latter place, and against the gate-way 
on the north-eastern corner of the redoubt ; at the same time they 
attacked the redoubt on the soutli-eastern and soiuh-western sides, 
and entered it with fixed bayonets. The slaughter on their ad- 
vancing was great ; but the Americans, not having bayonets to 
meet them on equal terms, and their powder being exhausted, noAv 

50 



372 CHABLBSTOWN. 

slowly retreated, opposing and extricating themselves from tlie 
British with the butts of their pieces. 

"The column that advanced against the rail fence was received 
in the most dauntless manner. The Americans fought with spirit 
and heroism that could not be surpassed, and, had their ammuni- 
tion held out, would have secured to themselves, a third time, the 
palm of victory ; as it was, they effectually prevented the enemy 
from accomplishing his purpose, which was to turn their flank and 
cut the whole of the Americans off; but having become perfectly 
exhausted, this body of the Americans also slowly retired, retreat- 
ing in much better order than could possibly have been expected 
from undisciplined troops, and those in the redoubt having extri- 
cated themselves from a host of bayonets by which they had 
been surroimded. 

" The British followed the Americans to Bunker Hill, but some 
fresh militia, at this moment coming up to the aid of the latter, 
covered their retreat. The Americans crossed Charlestown Neck 
about 7 o'clock, having in the last twenty hours performed deeds 
which seemed almost impossible. Some of them proceeded to 
Cambridge, and others posted themselves quietly on Winter and 
Prospect Hills. 

" From the most accurate statements that can be found, it ap- 
pears the British must have had nearly 5,000 soldiers in the battle ; 
between 3 and 4,000 having first landed, and the reinforcement 
amounting to over 1,000. The Americans, throughout the whole 
day, did not have 2,000 men on the field. 

" The slaughter on the side of the British was immense, having 
had nearly 1,500 killed and wounded, 1,200 of whom were either 
killed or mortally wounded ; the Americans about 400. 

" Had the commanders at Charlestown Heights become terrified on being cut off 
from the main body and supplies, and surrendered their army, or even retreated 
before they did from the terrific force that opposed them, where would have now 
been that ornament and example to the world, the Independence of the United States ? 
When it was found that no reinforcements were to be allowed them, the most 
.sanguine man on that field could not have even indulged a hope of success, but all 
determined to deserve it ; and although they did not obtain a victory, their exam- 
ple was the cause of a great many. The first attempt on the commencement of a 
war is held up, by one party or the other, as an example to those that succeed it, 
and a victory or defeat, though not, perhaps, of any great magnitude in itself, is 
most powerful and important in its effects. Had such conduct as wa« here exhibited 
been in any degree imitated by the immediate commander in the first military onset 
in the last war, how truly different a result would have been effected, from the fatal 
one that terminated that unfortunate expedition ! 

" From the immense superiority of the British, at this stage of the war, having a 
large army of highly disciplined and well-equipped troops, and the Americans pos- 
sessing but few other munitions or weapons of war, and but little more discipline 
than what each man possessed when he threw aside his plough and took the gun 
that he had kept for pastime or for profit, but now to be employed for a different 
purpose, from off the hooks that held it, — perhaps it would have been in their power, 
by pursuing the Americans to Cambridge, and destroying the few stores that had 
been collected there, to implant a blow wliich could never have been recovered from .- 
but they were completely terrified. The awful lesson they had just received, filled 
them with horror, and the blood of 1,500 of their companions, who fell on that day, 
presented to them a warning which they could never forget. From the battle of 
Bunker Hill sprung the protection and the vigor that nurtured the tree of liberty, 
and to it, in all probability, may be ascribed our independence and glory. 



CHARLESTOWN. 373 

« The name of the first martyr that gave his life for the good of his country on that 
day, in the importance of the moment, was lost, else a monument, in connexion with 
the gallant Warren, should be raised to his memory. The manner of his death was 
thus related by Col. Prescott : 

" ' The first man who fell in the battle of Bunker Hill was killed by a cannon ball 
which struck his head. He was so near me that my clothes were besmeared with 
his blood and brains, which I wiped off in some degree with a handful of fresh earth. 
The sight was so shocking to many of the men, that they left their posts and ran to 
view him. I ordered them back, but in vain. I then ordered him to be buried in- 
stantly. A subaltern officer expressed surprise that I should allow him to be buried 
without having prayers said ; I replied, " This is the first man that has been ki?led, and 
the only one that will be buried to-day. I put him out of sight that the men may be 
kept in their places. God only knows who, or how many of us, will fall before it is 
over. To your post, my good fellow, and let each man do his duty." ' 

" The name of the patriot who thus fell is supposed to have been Pollakd, a young 
man belonging to Billerica. He was struck by a cannon ball, thrown from the line- 
of-battle ship Somerset." 

On the 17th of June, 1825, the corner stone of an obelisk was 
laid on the battle-ground, by Gen. Lafayette, to commemorate 
the battle fought fifty years before. On this occasion, an immense 
concourse of citizens, from various parts of the country, assem- 
bled to witness the interesting ceremonies of the day. The fol- 
lowing account of the proceedings is from Snotv^s History of 
Boston. 

" The day was temperate and fair, and all the arrangements made to honor it were 
executed with punctuality and good order. A procession was formed about half past 
10, A. M., near the state house, under the direction of Brig. Gen. Theodore Lyman, 
Jr. The military escort was composed of 16 companies, and a corps of cavalry, all 
volunteers and in full uniform. Next to them followed the survivors of the battle, 
about 40 in number, and after them about 200 other revolutionary officers and soldiers, 
each wearing an appropriate badge ; then the subscribers to the monument, in columns 
six deep, all wearing the badge of the B. H. M. Association. The Masonic frater- 
nity succeeded. This section of the procession was very splendid, and numbered at 
least 2,000 members, all with their jewels and regalia. The president and officers of 
the association, the chaplains and committees followed. General Lafayette, in a 
coach and four, came next, accompanied by Gen. Lallemand, and followed by a car- 
riage in which were the general's son and suite. The governor and state officers, 
di.stinguislied persons from the different states, officers of the army, navy and militia, 
in uniform, and a large body of private citizens, closed the procession. 

'•In this order, the whole moved through Park, Common, School, Washington, 
U)ii(jn, Hanover and Prince streets to Charles River bridge, and thence through the 
]\lain. Green, and High streets, in Charlestown, to the Monumental square. The 
front of the procession had nearly reached the bridge when the rear of it left the 
common. Arrived at the spot intended for the monument, (which is a little to the 
east of the site of the monument to Warren,) the procession formed in squares around 
it ; and the stone, being squared, levelled and plumbed by the grand master, the gene- 
ral, and the Hon. Daniel Webster, (president of the association,) was declared in 
due form to be true and proper, and the ceremonies closed with the customary religious 
services. Cheers from the multitude of witnesses, and salutes from Bunker's and 
Copp's Hills, announced the moment of the fact to the thousands who could not be 
gratified mth the sight of it. 

" ' The procession then moved to an amphitheatrical area, where preparations had 
been made, on a most ample scale, for the accommodation of the auditors of the 
address of the president of the association. They included a large portion of the 
north-eastern declivity of the battle-hill. On each side of the bower, seats with awn- 
ings had been prepared, and were filled by over one thousand ladies, from all parts of 
the Union. In the centre of the base, a rural arch and bower, surmounted by the 
American eagle, was formed for the government of the association and some of the 
guests, in front of which, after the venerable Mr. Thaxter had addressed the Throne 
<if Grace, the orator, sub calo, pronounced an address, which none but its author is 
capable of doing justice to in a summary, and which wdl be read with a pleasure 
equalled only by that which electrified tiie vast assemblage who listened to it ior 



374 CHELMSFORD. 

nearly one hour and a quarter. It is enough for us to say, that it was in every par- 
ticular worthy of the celebrity of the orator, and that his address to the silver-headed 
worthies of the Revolution, and to the distinguished Guest of the Nation, filled every 
heart with transport.' 

" After the close of the address, the company repaired to Bunker's Hill, where a 
sumptuous entertainment was provided, at which more than four thousand persons 
partook. The guests separated at a seasonable hour, and the festivities of the occa- 
sion terminated with a private party at the residence of a distinguished citizen." 

The depth to which the corner stone was laid was found in- 
sufficient to resist the action of frost. It was taken up in 1827, 
and relaid to a greater depth, and the base, 50 feet in diameter, 
was completed. From this base, according to the plan, the monu- 
ment is to rise two hundred and twenty feet. When completed 
it will form an obelisk. 30 feet square at the base and 15 at the 
top. It will consist of 80 courses of Quincy granite, each course 
2 feet 8 inches in thickness ; and will be the highest of the kind 
known in the world, and only below the height of the FJgyptian 
pyramids. At present, the monument is raised to only about 60 
feet. 



CHELMSFORD 



In 1652, about twenty persons from Woburn and Concord pe- 
titioned the general court for liberty to examine a tract of land 
" lying on the other (west) side of Concord river." This request 
was granted ; and having, by a committee, examined the land, 
and having found others, to the number of thirty-nine in all, de- 
sirous of uniting with them in erecting a new plantation, they 
jointly petitioned the legislature for a grant of land, bordering 
upon the river Merrimac, near to Pawtuckett. They stated that 
there was a very "comfortable place to accommodate a company 
of God's people upon, who may with God's blessing do good in 
that place for church and state." They requested that said tract 
of land might begin on Merrimac river, at a neck of land on Con- 
cord river, and so to run up by said river south and west, into the 
country, to make up a quantity of six miles square. About the 
same time, a petition was presented to the legislature by Rev, 
John Eliot of Roxbury, agent and trustee for the Indians, for a 
grant of land lying about Pawtuckett and Wamesit falls, to be 
appropriated to the sole and exclusive use of the tribe inhabiting 
thereabouts. This land, called the Great Neck, was the principal 
habitation of the Pawtucketts, once the most powerful tribe north 
of the Massachusetts. Here they had erected wigwams, and bro- 
ken up land for planting. The court, taking into consideration 
both petitions, directed that both an Indian and an English plan- 
tation should be laid out. 

The plantation constituting the original Chelmsford was in the 
form of a parallelogram or oblong square. The town was incor- 
porated in 1655, and received its name from Chelmsford in Eng- 
'and, county of Essex, which derived its name from the river 



CHELMSFORD. 375 

Chelmer, on which it is situated. In 1656, the hounds of the town 
were enlarged. This additional tract comprised the whole of the 
territory now comprised within the town of Westford. To this 
tract flie Indians had a common right with the inhabitants of 
Chelmsford. The tract on which the Indians lived was styled 
Wamesit. The Indians, from various causes, rapidly decreased, 
and having little or no use for their lands, sold them to the Eng- 
lish. The first English settlements made on the Indian planta- 
tion were on the borders of Concord river, upon a plat of ground 
much resembling a heater, which gave rise to the name of Concord 
River Neck. William How was the first weaver in the town. He 
was admitted an inhabitant as early as 1656, and granted twelve 
acres of meadow and eighteen of upland, " provided he set up his 
trade of weaving and perform the town's work." In the same 
year, 450 acres of land were granted to Samuel Adams, " provided 
he supply the town with boards at three shillings per hundred, or 
saw one log for the providing and bringing of another to be ready 
to work the next March." To this were added 100 acres more, in 
consideration of his erecting a corn mill, and to give him still far- 
ther encouragement, they passed an order, "that no other corn 
mill should be erected for this town, provided the said Adams keep 
a sufficient mill and miller." 

Chelmsford is remarkably diversified by meadows and swamps, 
uplands and forest trees of various kinds, and intersected by brooks 
and rivulets. Upon the Merrimac and Concord, much of the land 
is alluvial and fertile. Thence proceeding south-west lies a pine 
plain, shallovvT and sandy, called Carolina plain, upwards of a mile 
wide, intersecting the north-east and south-west part of the town. 
The western part of the town is rocky. There are two villages in 
the town, one near the central part, the other, callea Middlesex 
village, is in the north part of the town, where the Middlesex canal 
joins the Merrimac. The manufacture of glass has been carried 
on in this place for many years. The granite of this town is much 
used and highly valued for building. The University Hall, at 
Cambridge, many houses in Boston, and the Presbyterian church 
in Savannah, Georgia, were built of this stone. In 1837 there were 
seven air and cupola furnaces in this town, and one glass manufac- 
tory ; value of glass manufactured, ,'j^30,000 ; hands employed, 30 ; 
one scythe manufactory ; value of scythes manufactured, ,^12,500 ; 
twelve hands employed; capital invested, ^10,750; 1 machine 
shop, which employed 20 hands; 1 hat manufactory; value of 
hats manufactured, $32,500. Population. 1,613. Distance, 9 
miles from Concord, 4 from Lowell, and 25 from Boston. 

The origin of the first church in Chelmsford is not certainly 
known. Its existence probably commenced about the arrival of 
Rev. John Fiske, the first minister, in 1654 or 1655. He was past 
the meridian of life when he commenced the work of the ministry 
in this uncultivated and thinly peopled town. For several years 
there was no other minister nearer than Concord and AVoburn. 
" Coming from a paradise of pleasure in England to a wilderness of 



376 CHELMSFORD. 

wants," his patience and fortitude were put to a severe trial. His 
care for the souls of his flock committed to him was unremitting, 
while his medical skill imposed upon him arduous additional 
duties. His services as a physician were of inestimable value in 
the new townships where he resided after he came to America. 
Upon the earnest solicitation of his people he composed a new cate- 
chism for the use of their children. It was printed at their expense 
in 1637, by Samuel Green, Cambridge. It is styled the " Watering 
of the Plant in Christ's Garden, or a short Catechism for the en- 
trance of our Chelmsford children. Enlarged by a three fold Ap- 
pendix." After be had been many Lord's days carried to the 
church in a chair, and preached, as in primitive times, sitting, he, 
on Jan. 14, saw a rest from his labors.^ 

The following account of the visit of the Rev. John Eliot and 
Gen. Gookin to the Indians at Pawtucket falls, is from " Gookin's 
Historical Account of the Indians," written in 1674.f 

"May fifth, 1674, according to our usual custom, Mr. Eliot and myself took our jour- 
ney to Wamesit or Pawtucket ; and arriving there that evening, Mr. Eliot preached to 
as many of them as could be got together, out of Mat. xxii. 1 — 14, the parable of the 
marriage of the king's son. 

" "We met at the wigwam of one called Wannalancet, about two miles from the town, 
near Pawtucket falls, and bordering upon the Merrimack river. This person, Wanna- 
lancet, is the eldest son of old Pasaconaway, the chiefest Sachem of Pawtucket. He is a 
sober and grave person, and of years, between fifty and sixty. He hath been always 
loving and friendly to the English. Many endeavours have been used several years 
to gain this Sachem to embrace the christian religion ; but he hath stood off from time 
to time, and not yielded up himself personally, though for four years past he hath 
been willing to hear the word of God preached, and to keep the Sabbath. A great 
reason that hath kept him off, I conceive, hath been the indisposition and aversion of 
sundry of his chief men and relations to pray to God, which he foresaw w^ould desert 
him in case he turned christian. But at this time. May 6, 1674, it pleased God so to 
influence and overcome his heart, that, it being proposed to him to give his answer 
concernmg prayer to God, after some deliberation and serious pause, he stood up and 
made a speech to this effect : 

" Sirs, you have been pleased for four years last past, m your abundant love, to apply 
yourselves particularly to me and my people, to exhort, press, and persuade us to pray 
to God. I am very thankful to you for your pains. I must acknowledge, said he, I 
have all my days used to pass in an old canoe, (alluding to his frequent custom to 
pass in a canoe upon the river) and now you exhort me to exchange and leave my old 
canoe, and embark in a new canoe, to which I have hitherto been unwilling ; but now 
I yield up myself to your advice, and enter into a new canoe, and do engage to pray 
to God hereafter. 

* Rev. Mr. Allen's History of Chelmsford, published 1820. 

t"Maj. General Gookin of Cambridge, the author of this account of praying towns, 
was the superintendent of all the Indians that had subjected themselves to the provin- 
cial government. He was accustomed to accompany Mr. Eliot in his missionary 
tours. While Mr. Eliot preached the gospel to the Indians, General Gookin adminis- 
tered civil affairs among them. In 1675, when Philip's war broke out, the English 
inhabitants generally were jealous of the praying Indians, and would have destroyed 
thein, had not General Gookin and Mr. Eliot stepped forth in their defence. The 
Christian Indians were for a while kept on one of the islands in Boston harbor through 
fear of their becoming traitors and going over to the enemy. The issue proved that 
these fears were entirely groundless. Not a single praying Indian went over to the 
enemy. This fact affords abundant encouragement to civilize and christianize the 
savages of our western forests. This is the most effectual way to preserve our fron- 
tier settlements from savage butchery. General Gookin died in 1687, an old man, 
■whose days were filled with usefulness." — Moore's Life of Eliot. 



CONCORD. 377 

" This his professed subjection was well pleasing to all that were present, of whicli 
there were some English persons of quality ; as Mr. Richard Daniel, a gentleman 
that hved in Billerica, about six miles off; and Lieutenant Henchman, a neighbour 
at Chelmsford; besides brother Eliot and myself, with sundry others, English and 
Indians. Mr. Daniel, before named, desired brother Eliot to tell this Sachem from him 
that it may be whilst he went in his old canoe he passed in a quiet stream ; but the 
end thereof was death and destruction to soul and body ; but now he went in a new 
canoe, perhaps he would meet with storms and trials ; but yet he should be encouraged 
to persevere, for the end of his voyage would be everlasting rest. Moreover, he and 
his people were exhorted by brother Eliot and myself to go on and sanctify the Sab- 
bath, to hear the word and use the means that God had appointed, and encourage their 
hearts in the Lord their God. Since that time I hear the Sachem doth persevere, and 
is a constant and diligent hearer of God's word, and sanctifieth the Sabbath, though he 
doth travel to Wamesit meeting every Sabbath, which is above two miles ; and 
though sundry of his people have deserted him, since he subjected to the gospel, yet 
he continues and persists." 

The following are the inscriptions on the monuments of the 
second and fourth ministers in this town : 

Memento mori. Fugit hora. Huic pulveri mandatse sunt Reliquise Rev. Dom. 
Thorn. Clark, Gregis Christi Chelmfordiance Pastoris eximii ; qui fide et spe beatae 
resurrectionis animam. In sinum Jesu expiravit die VII Decembris, Anno Domini 
1704, oetatis suaj 52. 

[The remains of the Rev. Thomas Clark, the faithful Pastor of the flock of Christ in 
Chelmsford, are here committed to the dust. In the faith and hope of a blessed res- 
urrection, he breathed his soul into the bosom of Jesus, Dec. 7, 1704, in the 52 year of 
his age, (and 27 of his ministry.)] 



By the church of Christ in Chelmsford, in testimony of their esteem and veneration, 
this sepultrial stone was erected to stand as a sacred memorial of their late worthy pas- 
tor, the Rev. Ebenezer Bridge, who, after having officiated among them in the service 
of the sanctuary for more than a year above half a century, the strength of nature be- 
ing exhausted, sunk under the burden of age, and joined the congregation of the dead, 
Oct. 1, 1792, JE.. 78. 



CONCORD 



In the year 1635, Musketaqnid was purchased of the Indians, 
and called Coiico?'d, on account of the peaceable manner in which 
it was obtained, as appears by the testimony of two settlers, Wil- 
liam Buttrick and Richard Rice, and two Christian Indians of 
Natick, Jehojakin and Jethro. They unitedly testify and say, 
" That they were present at the making of the bargain for the 
town of Concord ; that at the house of the Rev. Peter Bulkley, Mr. 
Simon Willard, Mr. John Jones, Mr. Spencer, and others, did pur- 
chase of squaw sachem, Tahattaroan and Nimrod, a tract of land 
six miles square, the center being the place (or near) where the 
bargain was made. That said Willard and others did pay for 
said land in wampanpeague, hatchets, hoes, knives, cotton cloth, 
and chintz, to said Indians. And that Wappacotvet, husband to 
squaw sachem, received a suit of cotton cloth, a hat, a white linen 
band, shoes, stockings, and a great coat on account of said bar- 
gain. That in the conclusion, the Indians declared they Avere 
satisfied, and that the English were welcome." 

The first settlement commenced in the fall of 1635, at which 
period (Sept. 3) the town was incorporated. "The first houses 

51 



379 CONCORD. 

were built on the south side of the hill from the public square to 
Merriam's Corner, and the farm lots laid out extending back from 
the road across the great fields and great meadows, and in front 
across the meadows on Mill brook. This spot was probably 
selected because it contained land easy of tillage, and because it 
afforded the greatest facilities in constructing such temporary 
dwellings as would shelter the inhabitants from the inclemency of 
storms and winter. These huts were built by digging into the 
bank, driving posts into the ground, and placing on them a cover- 
ing of bark, brushwood, or earth. The second year houses were 
erected as far as where the south and north bridges now stand." 
Many of the first settlers were men of acknowledged wealth, 
talents and education in their native country, and several Avere of 
noble families. 

The following is from Johnson's " Wonder-ivorking Provi- 
dence.^^ This author being an inhabitant of Woburn, and often 
associated with the people of Concord, he had a good opportunity 
of being acquainted with the early history of the town. 

"Upon some inquiiy of the Indians, who lived to the North West of the Bay, one 
Captaine Simon Willard, being acquainted with them, by reason of his trade, became 
a chiefe instrument in erecting this towne. The land they purchase of the Indians, 
and with much cUfficuUies travelling through unknowne woods, and through watery 
swamps, they discover the fitnesse of the place ; sometimes passing through the thick- 
ets, where their hands are forced to make way for their bodies passage, and their 
feete clambering over the crossed trees, which when they missed they sunke into an 
uncertaine bottome in water, and wade up to their knees, tumbling sometimes higher 
and sometimes lower. Wearied with this tnile, they at end of this meete with a scorch- 
ing plaine, yet not so plaine, but that the ragged bushes scratch their legs fouly, even 
to wearing their stockings to their bare skin in two or three hours. If they be not 
otherwise well defended with bootes or buskings, their flesh will be torne. Some of 
them being forced to passe on without further provision, have had the bloud trickle 
downe at every step. And in time of summer, the sun casts such a reflecting heate 
from the sweete feme, whose scent is very strong, that some herewith have beene 
very nere fainting, although very able bodies to undcrgoe much travel. And this not 
to be indurcd for one day, but for many ; and verily did not the Lord incourage their 
natural parts (with hopes of a new and strange discover}', expecting eveiy houre to 
see some rare sight never seen before), they were never able to hold out and breake 
through." * * * "After some dayes spent in search, toyling in the day time as for- 
merly said, like true Jacob, they rest them on the rocks where the night takes them. 
Their short repast is some small pittance of bread, if it hold out ; but as for drinke 
they have plenty, the countrey being well watered in all places that are yet found out. 
Their further hardship is to travell sometimes they know not whither, bewildred in- 
deed without sight of sun, their compasse miscarrying in crouding through the bushes. 
They sadly search up and down for a known way, the Indian paths being not above 
one foot broad, so that a man may travell many dayes and never find one." * * * 
" This intricate worke no whit daunted these resolved servants of Christ to go on with 
the worke in hand ; but lying in the open aire, while the watery clouds poure down all 
the night season, and sometimes the driving snow dissolving on their backs, they keep 
their wet cloathes warme with a continued fire, till the renewed morning give fresh 
opportunity of further travell. After they have thus found out a place of aboad, they 
burrow themselves in the earth for their first shelter under some hill-side, casting the 
earth aloft upon timber ; they make a smoaky fire against the earth at the highest side. 
And thus these poore servants of Christ provide shelter for themselves, their wives and 
little ones, keeping oflT the short showers from their lodgings, but the long raincs pene- 
trate through to their great disturbance in the night season. Yet in these poor wig- 
wams they sing psalmes, pray and praise their God, till they can provide them houses, 
which ordinarily was not wont to be with many till the earth, by the Lord's blessing, 
brought fi)rth bread to feed them, their wives and little ones, which with sore labours 
they attain ; every one that can lift a hoe to strike it into the earth, standing stoiUly to 



CONCORD. 379 

their labours, and tear up the rootes and bushes, which the first yeare bears them a 
very thin crop, tili the soard of the earth be rotten, and therefore they have been forced 
to cut their bread very thin for a long season. But the Lord is pleased to provide for 
them great store of fish in the spring time, and especially Alewives about the bignesse 
of a Herring. Many thousands of these they used to put under their Indian come, 
which they plant in hills fiVe foote asunder, and assuredly when the Lord created this 
corn, he had a speciall eye to supply these his people's wants with it, for ordinarily 
five or six grains doth produce six hundred. As for flesh they looked not for any in 
those times (although now they have plenty) unlesse they could barter with the 
Indians for venison or rockoons, whose flesh is not much inferiour unto lambe. The 
toile of a new plantation being like the labours of Hercules never at an end, yet are 
none so barbarously bent (under the Mattacusets especially) but Avith a new plantation 
they ordinarily gather into church fellowship, so that pastors and people suffer the in- 
conveniences together, which is a great means to season the sore labours they under- 
goe. And verily the edge of their appetite was greater to spirituall duties, at their 
first coming in time of wants, than afterward. Many in new plantations have been 
forced to go barefoot, and bareleg, till these latter dayes, and some in time of frost and 
snow ; yet were they then very healthy more than now they are. In this wildernesse 
worke men of estates speed no better than others, and some much worse for want of 
being inured to such hard labour ; having laid out their estate upon cattell at five and 
twenty pound a cow, when they came to winter them with in-land hay, and feed upon 
such wild fother as was never cut before, they could not hold out the winter, but 
ordinarily the first or second yeare after their coming up to a new plantation, many 
of their cattell died, especially if they wanted salt-marshes. And also those, who 
supposed they should feed upon swines flesh were cut short, the wolves commonly 
feasting themselves before them, who never leave neither flesh nor bones, if they be 
not scared away before they have made an end of their meale. As for those who laid 
out their estate upon sheepe, they speed worst of any at the beginning (although 
some have sped the best of any now) for untill the land be often fed by other cattell, 
sheepe cannot live, and therefore they never thrived till these latter days. Horse had 
then no better successe, which made many an honest gentleman travell a foot for a 
long time, and some have even perished with extreme heate in their travells. As also 
the want of English graine, wheate, barley, and rie, proved a sore affliction to some 
stomacks, who could not live upon Indian bread and water, yet were they compelled 
to it till cattell increased, and the plowes could but goe. Instead of apples and pears, 
they had pomkins and squashes of divers kinds. Their lonesome condition was very 
grievous to some, which was much aggravated by continuall feare of the Indians 
approach, whose cruelties were much spoken of, and more especially during the time 
of the Pequot wars. Thus this poore people populate this howhng desert, marching 
manfully on (the Lord assisting) through the greatest difficulties, and sorest labours 
that ever any with such weak means have done." 

The soil of Concord is various, consisting of rocky, sandy, and 
moist land ; but it is in general fertile. It contains no hills of con- 
sequence except Nasshwtt, in the north-west part of the town. 
Concord river passes through the central part of the town ; the 
North or Assabeth river unites with the Concord or Sudbury river 
about half a mile N. W. of the center of the village. Concord is 
the half shire town of the county of Middlesex. The village con- 
tains two Congregational churches, a court-house, jail, a bank, (the 
Concord Bank,) with a capital of $100,000, and about eighty 
dwelling-houses in the immediate vicinity. There is in the town 
one cotton factory, an establishment for the manufacture of lead 
pipes and sheet lead, one for carriages, and one for lead pencils, 
besides others for other articles. Concord is 13 miles south of 
Lowell, 30 north-east of Worcester, and 16 north-westerly of Bos- 
ton. Population, 2,023. 

The following is a south view of Col. Daniel Shattuck's residence 
m Concord, at the northern end of the wide street or common, in 
the central pai't of the village, A part of this building was erected 



380 



CONCORD. 




Colonel ShattucWz residence, Concord. 

during the revolutionary war, and used as a place of deposit for 
the public stores. 

The general court has frequently held its sessions in this town, 
and in the year 1774 the provincial congress selected it as the 
place of their meeting. A considerable quantity of provisions and 
military stores being deposited here, Gen, Gage, who commanded 
the British troops at Boston, on the memorable 19th of April, 1775, 
sent a detachment to destroy them. The British troops, who took 
every precaution to march secretly to Concord, were discovered at 
a very early period. The church bell at Concord rung an alarm a 
little before 3 o'clock in the morning. After the British troops had 
fired on the militia at Lexington, they proceeded on to Concord. 
The following very interesting and circumstantial account of the 
proceedings at this place is extracted from the History of the Town 
of Concord, by Lemuel Shattuck, Esq., an octavo volume of 392 
pages, published in Boston by Russell, Odiorne & Co., and in Con- 
cord by John Stacy, 1S35. 

" Guards were stationed at the north and south bridges, below 
Dr. Heywood's, and in the centre of the village. Jonathan Farrar 
was then commander of the guard. In case of an alarm, it was 
agreed to meet at Wright's tavern, now Deacon Jarvis's. A part 
of the company under Captain Brown paraded about break of 
day ; and being uncertain whether the enemy M'-as coming, they 
were dismissed, to be called together by the beat of drum. Soon 
afterward the minute-men and militia, who had assembled, paraded 
on the common, and, after furnishing themselves with ammunition 
at the court-house, marched down below the village in view of the 
Lexington road. About the same time a part of the minute com- 
pany from Lincoln, who had been alarmed by Dr. Prescott, came 
into town, and paraded in like manner. The number of armed 
men, who had now assembled, was about one hundred. The morn- 
ing had advanced to about seven o'clock ; and the British army 
were soon seen approaching the town on the Lexington road. The 
dun shone with peculiar splendor. The glittering arms of eight 



CONCORD. 38J 

hundred soldiers, 'the flower of the British army,' were full in 
view. It was a novel, imposing, alarming sight. What was to 
be done 1 At first it was thought best that they should face the 
enemy, as few as they were, and abide the consequences, Ot this 
opinion, among others, was the Rev. William Emerson, the cler- 
gyman of the town, who had turned out amongst the first in the 
morning to animate and encourage his people by his counsel and 
patriotic example. ' Let us stand our ground,' said he ; ' if we 
die, let us die here ! ' Eleazer Brooks, of Lincoln, was then on the 
hill. ' Let us go and meet them,' said one to him. ' No,' he 
answered, ' it will not do for tis to begin the war.' They did 
not then know what had happened at Lexington. Their number 
was, however, very small in comparison with the enemy, and it 
was concluded best to retire a short distance, and wait for rein- 
forcements. They consequently marched to the northern declivity 
of the burying-ground hill, near the present site of the court-house. 
They did not, however, leave their station till the British light 
infantry had arrived within a few rods' distance. * # # * 

" In the mean time the British troops entered the town. The six 
companies of light infantry were ordered to enter on the hill and 
disperse the minute men whom they had seen paraded there. The 
grenadiers came up the main road, and halted on the common. 
Unfortunately for the people's cause, the British officers had 
already been made somewhat acquainted, through their spies and 
the tories, with the topography of the town, and the situation of 
many of the military stores. On their arrival they examined, as 
well as they could, by the help of spyglasses, from a post of obser- 
vation on the burying-ground hill, the appearance of the town, 
condition of the provincials, &c. It was found that the provin- 
cials were assembling, and that no time was to be lost. The first 
object of the British was to gain possession of the north and south 
bridges, to prevent any militia from entering over them. Accord- 
ingly, while Colonel Smith remained in the centre of the town, he 
detached six companies of light infantry, under command of Capt. 
Lawrence Parsons of his own regiment, to take possession of the 
north bridge, and proceed thence to places where stores were de- 
posited. Ensign D'Bernicre, already mentioned, was ordered to 
direct his way. It is also intimated that tories were active in guid- 
ing the regulars. Captain Beeman of Petersham was one. On 
their arrival there, three companies, under command of Captain 
Lawrie of the 43d regiment, were left to protect the bridge ; one of 
those, commanded by Lieutenant Edward Thornton Gould, para- 
ded at the bridge, the other, of the 4th and 10th regiments, fell 
back in the rear towards the hill. Captain Parsons with three 
companies proceeded to Colonel Barrett's, to destroy the stores 
there deposited. At the same time Captain Mundey Pole, of the 
10th regiment, was ordered to take possession of the south bridge, 
and destroy such public property as he could find in that direction. 
The grenadiers and marines, under Smith and Pitcairn, remained 
in the centre of the town, where all means in their power were 



382 CONCORD, 

used to accomplish the destruction of military stores. By the 
great exertions of the provincials the principal part of the public 
stores had been secreted, and many others were protected by the 
innocent artifice of individuals. In the centre of the town the 
grenadiers broke open about sixty barrels of flour, nearly one half 
of which was afterwards saved ; knocked off the trunnions of 
three iron twenty-four pound cannon, and burnt sixteen new car- 
riage-wheels, and a few barrels of wooden trenchers and spoons. 
The liberty-pole on the hill was cut down, and suffered the same 
fate. About five hundred pounds of balls were thrown into the 
mill-pond and into wells. # ^ # # # 

" While the British were thus engaged, our citizens and part of 
our military men, having secured what articles of public property 
they could, were assembling under arms. Beside the minute-men 
and militia of Concord, the military companies from the adjoining 
towns began to assemble ; and the number had increased to about 
two hundred and fifty or three hundred. * # # 

"Joseph Hosmer, acting as adjutant, formed the soldiers as they 
arrived singly or in squads, on the field westerly of Colonel Jonas 
Buttrick's present residence ; the minute companies on the right 
and the militia on the left, facing the town. He then, observing 
an unusual smoke arising from the centre of the town, went to the 
officers and citizens in consultation on the high ground near by, 
and inquired earnestly, ' Will you let them burn the town down?' 
They then, with those exciting scenes before them, deliberately, 
with noble patriotism and firmness, ' resolved to march into the 
middle of the town to defend their homes, or die in the attempt ;' 
and at the same time they resolved not to fire unless first fired 
upon. ' They acted upon principle and in the fear of God.' 

" Colonel Barrett immediately gave orders to march by wheeling 
from the right. Major Buttrick requested Lieutenant-Colonel Rob- 
inson to accompany him, and led them in double file to the scene 
of action. When they came to the road leading from Captain 
Brown's to the bridge, a part of the Acton minute company, under 
Captain Davis, passed by in front, marched towards the bridge a 
short distance, and halted. Being in files of two abreast, the Con- 
cord minute company, under Captain Brown, being before at the 
head, marched up the north side, till they came equally in front. 
The precise position, however, of each company cannot now be 
fully ascertained. This road was subject to inundations, and a 
wall was built with large stones on the upper side, in which posts 
were placed, connected together at their tops with poles to aid foot- 
passengers in passing over in times of high water. 

" The British, observing their motions, immediately formed on 
the east side of the river, and soon began to take up the planks of 
the bridge. Against this Major Buttrick remonstrated in an ele- 
vated tone, and ordered a quicker step of his soldiers. The British 
desisted. At that moment two or three guns were fired in quick 
succession into the river, which the provincials considered as alarm- 
guns and not aimed at them. They had arrived within ten or fif- 



CONCORD. 383 

teen rods of the bridge, when a single gun was fired by a British 
soldier, the ball from which, passing under Colonel Robinson's arm, 
slightly wounded the side of Luther Blanchard, a fifer in the Acton 
company, and Jonas Brown, one of the Concord minute men. This 
gun was instantly followed by a volley, by which Captain Isaac 
Davis and Abner Hosmer, both belonging to Acton, were killed, a 
ball passing through the body of the former, and another through 
the head of the latter. On seeing this, Major Buttriclc instantly 
leaped from the ground, and partly turning to his men, exclaimed, 
' Fire, fellow-soldiers, for God's sake, fire ! ' discharging his own 
gun almost in the same instant. His order was instantly obeyed ; 
and a general discharge from the whole line of the provincial 
ranks took place. Firing on both sides continued a few minutes. 
Three British soldiers were killed ; and Lieutenants Sunderland, 
Kelley, and Gould, a sergeant, and four privates, were wounded. 
The British immediately retreated about half way to the meeting- 
house, and were met by two companies of grenadiers, who had 
been drawn thither by ' the noise of battle.' Two of the soldiers 
killed at the bridge were left on the ground, where they were 
afterwards buried by Zachariah Brown and Thomas Davis, Jim.; 
and the spot deserves to be marked by an ever-enduring monu- 
ment, as the place wliere the first British blood was spilt, — where 
the life of the first British soldier was taken, in a contest which 
resulted in a revolution the most mighty in its consequences in the 
annals of mankind. Most of the provincials pursued them across 
the bridge, though a few returned to Buttrick's with their dead. 
About one hundred and fifty went immediately across the Great 
Field to intercept the enemy on their retreat at Merriam's Corner. 
From this time through the day, little or no military order was 
preserved. Every man chose his own time and mode of attack. 
It was between 10 and 11 o'clock when the firing at the bridge 
took place, and a short time after Captain Parsons and his party 
returned mimolested from Colonel Barrett's. # ^ * 

" By this time the provincials had considerably increased, and were constantly arriv- 
ing from the neighboring towns. The British had but partially accomplished the objects 
of their expedition ; the quantity of public stores destroyed being very small in compari- 
son with what remained untouched. They observed, however, with no little anxiety 
and astonishment, the celerity with which the provincials were assembling, and the de- 
termined resolution v.'ith which they were opposed. Hitherto their superior numbers 
had given them an advantage over such companies as had assembled ; but they now 
began to feel that they were in danger, and resolved, from necessity, on an immediate 
retreat. They collected together their scattered parties, and made some hasty provi- 
sion for the wounded. ****** 

" The designs of the enemy were now fully developed ; and the indignation of the 
provincials was highly excited. JMany of them were determined to be revenged for the 
wanton cruelties which had been committed. They had followed the retreating party 
between the bridge and the village, and fired single-handed from the high ground, or 
from behind such shelter as came in their way j and thus began a mode of warfare 
which cost many a one his life. 

" The king's troops retreated in the same order as they entered 
town, the infantry on the hill and the grenadiers in the road, but 
with flanking parties more numerous and farther from the main 
body. On arriving at Merriam's Corner they were attacked by the 



384 CONCORD. 

provincials who had proceeded across the Great Fields, in conjunc- 
tion with a company from Reading, under command of the late 
Governor Brooks. Several of the British were killed, and several 
wounded ; among the latter was Ensign Lester. None of the pro- 
vincials were injured. From this time the road was literally lined 
with provincials, whose accurate aim generally produced the 
desired effect. Guns were fired from every house, barn, wall, or 

t^ .AA. ,\A. M, ,SL, 4t 

•n- TV" T"f- 'W' •Tr •TT 

" An express was sent from Lexington in the morning to Gene- 
ral Gage to inform him of what had happened there ; and about 9 
o'clock a brigade of about 1,100 men marched out under the com- 
mand of the Right Honorable Hugh Earl Percy, a brigadier-gene- 
ral, consisting of the marines, the Welsh Fusiliers, the 4th, 47th, 
and 38th regiments, and two field-pieces. This reinforcement ar- 
rived at Lexington about 2 o'clock, placed the field-pieces on the 
high ground below Monroe's tavern, and checked for about half 
an hour the eager pursuit of the provincials. During this time 
they burnt the house, barn, and other out-buildings of Deacon Jo- 
seph Loring, the house, barn, and shop of Mrs. Lydia Mulliken, 
and the house and shop of Mr. Joshua Bond. By the aid of this 
reinforcement they were able to effect their retreat to Charlestown, 
though not without sustaining continual losses on the way. They 
arrived about 7 o'clock, having, during a day unusually hot for 
the season, marched upwards of 36 miles, and endured almost in- 
credible suffering. All the provisions they had had were obtained by 
purchase or plunder from the people, their provision-wagons hav- 
ing been taken by the Americans. Some of them ' were so much 
exhausted with fatigue, that they were obliged to lie down on the 
ground, their tongues hanging out of their mouths like dogs' after the 
chase.' Our militia and minute-men pursued them to Charles- 
town Neck, many of whom remained there during the night; 
others returned home. 

" The damage to private property by fire, robbery, and destruction, was estimated at 
£274 16s. Id. in Concord ; £1761 Is. 5d. in Lexington ; and £1202 8s. 7d. in Cam- 
bridge. 

" Of the provincials 49 were killed, 36 wounded, and 5 missing. Captain Charles 
Miles, Captain Nathan Barrett, Jonas Brown, and Abel Prescott, jr., of Concord, were 
wounded. Captain Isaac Davis, Abner Hosmer, and James Hayward, of Acton, were 
killed, and Luther Blanchard wounded. Captain Jonathan Wilson, of Bedford, was 
killed, and Job Lane wounded. 

"Of the British, 73 were killed, 172 wounded, and 26 missing; amohg- whom were 
18 officers, 10 sergeants, 2 drummers, and 240 rank and file. Among the wounded 
were Lieutenant Colonels Francis Smith and Benjamin Bernard. Lieutenant Edward 
Hall was wounded at the north bridge and taken prisoner on the retreat. He died the 
next day, and his remains were delivered up to General Gage. Lieutenant Edward 
Thornton Gould was also wounded at the bridge and taken prisoner on the retreat." 

The following is a western view of the monument recently 
erected at Concord, at the place where the old north bridge of Con- 
cord crossed the river. It is constructed of granite, with the follow- 
ing inscription on the marble inlet : — 

" Here, on the 19th of April, 1775, was made the first forcible re- 
sistance to British aggression. On the opposite bank stood the Ame- 



CONCOR D, 



385 




Monument at Concord. 

rican militia. Here stood the invading army, and on this spot the 
first of the enemy fell in the war of the Revolution, which gave 
Independence to these United States. In gratitude to God and in 
the love of Freedom, this monument was erected A. D. 1S36." 

The monument stands a few rods westward of the public road, 
near the house of the Rev. Dr. Ripley, who gave the land for the 
above purpose. The entrance to the bridge was between the trees 
seen standing by the water's edge on each side of the monument. 
These trees were standing at the time of the Revolution. The two 
British soldiers who were killed at this spot were buried a few feet 
from the monument. The place is marked by two rough stones, 
seen on the left, by the two persons represented in the engraving. 

The following inscriptions are copied from monuments in this 
town. The oldest monument is in the Hill burying-ground, in- 
scribed thus: " Joseph Merriam, aged 47 years, died the 20 of April, 

Here lies Interred the Remains of the Rev. Mr. Daniel Bliss, Pastor of the Church 
of Christ in Concord, who Deceased the 11th day of May, Anno Dom : 1764, iEtatis 
suas 50. 

Of this beloved Disciple and Minister of Jesus Christ 't is justly observable, that, in 
addition to his natural and acquired abilities, he was distinguishedly favoured with those 
eminent Graces of the Holy Spirit (Meekness, Humility, and Zeal,) which rendered 
him peculiarly fit for and enabled him to go thro' the great and arduous work of the 
Gospel Ministry, upon which he entered in the 25th year of his age. The Duties of 
the various Characters he sustained in life, were performed with great strictness and 
fidelity. As a private Christian he was a bright Example of Holiness in Life and Pu- 
rity in Conversation. But in the execution of y« ministerial office he shone with Pe- 
culiar Lustre, — a spirit of Devotion animated all his performances : — his doctrine drop'd 
as y= Rain and his lips distilled like the Dew : — his Preaching was powerful and 
Searching; — and he who blessed him with an uncommon Talent in a particular Appli- 
cation to y« Consciences of men, crowned his skilful Endeavours w"' great success. 
As y" work of the Ministry was his great Delight, so he continued fervent and diligent 
iny^ Performance of it, till his Divine Lord called him from his Service on Earth to 
the Glorious Recompense of Reward m Heaven ; where as one who has turned many 
unto Righteousness he shines as a star for ever and ever. 

b2 



386 D R A C U T . 

" His soul was of y^ Angelic Frame, 
The Same Ingredients, and the mould y* same, 
Whom y« Creator makes a Minister of Fame." 

Watts. 



In Memory of Capt. JOHN STONE, the Architect of that Modern and justly 
Celebrated Piece of Architecture, Charles River Bridge. He was a man of good Natii- 
ral abilities, which seemed to be adorned with ftloral Virtues and Christian Graces. 
He departed this life in the year of our Lord 1791, in the 63 year of his age. 



This stone is designed by its durability to perpetuate the memory, and by its colour 
to signify the moral character, of Miss ABIGAIL DUDLEY, who died Jan. 4, 1812, 
aged 73. 

The following, generally attributed to the pen of Daniel Bliss, 
Esq., has often been published and admired. 

God wills us free ; — man wills us slaves. I will as God wills ; God's will be done. 
Here lies the body of JOHN JACK, A native of Africa, who died March, 1773, aged 
about sixty years. Though born in a laud of slavery. He was born free. Though he 
-ived in a land of liberty, He lived a slave ; Till by his honest, though stolen labours. 
He acquired the source of slavery. Which gave him his freedom : Though not long 
before Death, the grand tyrant, Gave him his final emancipation. And put him on a 
footing with kings. Though a slave to vice, He practised those virtues, Without which 
kings are but slaves. 



Here lyes interred the remains of Mr. Hugh Cargill, late of Boston, who died in 
Concord, January 12, 1799, in the 60th year of his age. Mr. Cargill was born in Bel- 
lyshannon, in Ireland, came to this country in the year 1774, destitute of the comforts 
of life ; but by his industry and good economy he acquired a good estate ; and, hav- 
ing no children, he at his death devised his estate to his wife, Mrs. Rebecca Cargill, 
and to a number of his friends and relations by marriage, and especially a large and 
generous donation to the town of Concord for benevolent and charitable purposes. 

How strange, O God, who reigns on high, I To l;iy my bones with strangers dead. 

That I should come .so far to die, But I have hopes when I arise 

And leave my friends, where I was bred, | To dwell with thee in yonder .skiea. 



DRACUT. 



This town was incorporated in 1701. This is principally an 
agricultural town, on the north bank of the Merrimac. This town 
has a tolerably good soil, and is watered by Beaver brook, Avhich 
crosses it from New Hampshire, and many smaller streams. Since 
the rapid increase of the population in LoAvell, a good market has 
been found for the agricultural productions of the town. "A fine 
and picturesque bridge was built many years since from this town 
to Chelmsford, over the head of Pawtucket falls. The piers are 
founded on the rocks that divide and break the falls, and the 
arches springing from rock to rock, and the water foaming be- 
neath, has a wild and romantic appearance. Another elegant and 
costly bridge, just below the falls, connects this to\rn with Lowell. 
It was built in 1826, is about 500 feet long, is roofed the whole 
length, and presents a very pleasing appearance." In 1S37, there 
was in the town 1 woollen mill, with 4 sets of machinery ; 700 
pairs of boots and 13,600 of shoes were manufactured, valued at 
$12,000; the value of cutlery manufactured was $4,000. Popu- 
lation, 1,898. Distance, 16 miles from Concord, 18 from Haver- 
hill, and 27 from Boston. 



FRAMINGHAM. 387 

DUNSTABLE. 

This town was incorporated in 1663. This is a small township; 
the land is rather level, and the soil is light and sandy. Nashua 
river forms the western border of the town, and then passes into 
New Hampshire, There are three churches, 1 Congregational, 1 
Baptist, and 1 Universalist. Population, 570. Distance, 18 miles 
from Concord, 6 south of Nashua village, and 37 from Boston. 

" Capt. John Lovell, (or Lovewell, as his name was formerly written,) the hero of 
Pigwacket, and six of his men, were from this town. He had distinguished himself in 
several bloody fights with the Indians, and taken several scalps, for which he received 
a bounty of 100 pounds each, from the treasury of the colony. In Feb. 1724,, he and 
liis followers surprised and killed a party of ten Indians, as they were sitting around 
a fire, and received 1,000 pounds for their scalps at Boston ! In April, 1725, Capt. Lovell 
and Lieut. Joseph Farwell, Lieut. Jonathan Robbins, Ensign John Harwood, Sergeant 
Noah Johnson, Robert Usher, and Samuel Whiting, from this town. Ensign Seth Wy- 
man, Thomas Richardson, Timothy Richardson, Ichabod Johnson, and Josiah John- 
son, of Woburn ; Ebenezer Davis, Josiah Davis, Josiah Jones, David Melvin, Eleazar 
Melvin, Jacob Farrar, and Joseph Farrar, of Concord ; chaplain Jonathan Frye, of 
Andover ; Sergeant Jacob Fullum, of Weston ; Corp. Edward Lingfield, of Derry ; 
Jonathan Kittredge and Solomon Kies, of Billerica; John Jefts, Daniel Woods, 
Thomas Woods, John Chamberlain, EUas Barron, Isaac Lakin, and Joseph Gilson, of 
Groton ; Ebenezer Ayer and Abiel Asten, of Haverhill ; with several others who 
returned without reaching the field of action, to the number of 46 in all, set out for 
Pigwacket, then the residence of the celebrated Indian chief, Paugus. On the 8th of 
May, having reached the borders of a pond in what is now Fryeburg, Maine, they 
were attacked by about 80 Indians, with all the fury of the most determined hostility, 
and the exultation of expected victory. The heroic band maintained the fight from 
morning till night, when the enemy withdrew ; having three-fourths of their number 
killed or wounded. Of Lovell's party, himself and eight more were dead, four were 
groaning with the agony of mortal wounds, several were wounded less severely, nine 
remained unhurt, and one had fled at the onset. Lieut. Robbins was left mortally 
wounded on the field of action ; Lieut. Farwell, chaplain Frye, Davis a.nd Jones, pro- 
ceeded about a mile and a half, when they failed and were left ; the two former per- 
ished. Davis and Jones, after inexpressible sufl'ering, reached a place of safety. The 
pond alone, by protecting their rear, saved them froai total destruction. Capt. Tyng, 
of Mass., after a few days, proceeded to the spot, to bury the dead ; 13 Avere interred 
on the field, and their names inscribed on the trunks of the trees ; but more durable 
records perpetuate the remembrance of the sanguinary conflict." — Spofford^s Gaz. 



FRAMINGHAM. 



Framingham was incorporated as a town in 1700. In this year 
it was by the general court " ordered that said plantation, called 
Framingham, be henceforth a township retaining the name of 
Framingham, and have and enjoy all the privil«dges of a town 
according to law. Saving unto Sherbon all the rights of land 
granted by the general court to the first inhabitants, and those 
since purchased by exchange with the Indians of Natick, or other- 
wise, all the farms lying within said township according to the 
former grants of this general court." On the same day this grant 
was made by the legislature, a petition, by mutual concert, was 
made for a large tract of land north-east of said plantation, termed 
'Sudbury Farms, to be annexed to the new township, which was 



388 



F H A M I NGHAivr. 



readily granted. The first minister of the place was Rev. John 
Swift, who was ordained Oct., 1701, and died in 1745, aged 67. 
The church at the time of its organization consisted of the follow- 
ing members : 



Henry Rice, Simon Mellen. 

Daniel Rice, Deac. Peter Cloise, 
Jona. Hemingway, do. Benjamin Bridges, 
Thomas Driiry, Caleb Bridges, 

Thomas Walker, Thomas Mellen, 

John Stow, Benjamin Nurse, 



Samuel Winch, 
Thomas Frost, 
John Haven, 
Isaac Bo wen, 
Stephen Jennings, 
Nathaniel Haven. 




Eastern view of Framingham, (^central part.) 

This village is about half way from Boston to Worcester, being 
21 miles from the former and 20" miles from the latter place. The 
village consists of about 60 dwelling-houses, 4 churches, 2 Con- 
:gregational. one of which is Unitarian,"l Baptist, and 1 Universalist. 
Part of the Unitarian church is seen on the right, the Orthodox 
church on the left, near which is seen in the distance the tower of 
the Universalist church. The next building in the distance west- 
Avard of the Unitarian church is the academy, which is constructed 
of stone; the spire seen near this building is that of the Baptist 
church. The town-house, having pillars at each end, is seen in 
the distance, in the enclosed green. Sa.vonville, a manufacturing 
village, is situated about two miles north-east from this place, and 
lias a Congregational church. The "■ Framingham Bank" has a 
capital of $99,4.50. Population, 2,881. The Boston and Worces- 
ter railroad passes through this town, about 2 miles south from 
the village. This town is watered by Sudbury river, a principal 
branch of the Concord river. The surface of the town cannot be 
considered as hilly or })lain ; it consists mostly of gentle eminences 
and depressions, every acre being susceptible of cultivation. The 
•soil on the high arable land is rather gravelly, but generally, 



cuoTON 389 

throughout the town, it is well adapted for the raising of rye and 
corn. 

The Framingham cotton and woollen manufactory was incor- 
porated in 1813, with a capital of ^50,000. The Saxon manufac- 
tory was incorporated in 1824. " This company purchased the 
Leicester factory the same year, and the stock was united in the 
same corporation by act of court, Feb. 8, 1825 ; capital $150,000." 
In 1837, there were in this town 5 woollen mills, 11 sets of wool- 
len machinery ; wool consumed, 744,000 lbs. ; cloth manufactured, 
268,640 yards, valued at $311,800; males employed, 105 ; females, 
141 ; capital invested, $415,000. There were 1,524 pairs of boots 
and 34,955 pairs of shoes manufactured, valued at $31,293 ; value 
of paper manufactured, $46,000. There were 7,777 straw bonnets 
manufactured, the value of which was $16,358. 

The following is a copy of the Latin inscription on the monu- 
ment of the Rev. Mr. Smith, the first minister of this place, with a 
translation. 

Hie jacet qui obiit A. D. 1745, Aprilis 24to, ^tatisqne anno 67mo. vir ille Reveren- 
dus D. Johannes Swift. Dotibus et nativis et acquisitis ornaUis ; Docendi Artifex, 
Exemplar vivendi Felix, dum vixit mores exhibens secundum Divinas Reg^ulas Ep 

o necessaries : commiscens prudentiam Serpentis columbceque innocentiam 

commercium cam eo habentibus. In vita percharus, atque gratam sui etsi moestam 
memoriam post mortem suis relinquens : — Qui per varies casus variaque rerum dis- 
crimina, atque usque ad mortem, raram Discietionem, Modestiam, Patientiam, volun- 
tatique Supremi Numinis submissionem spectandam prsebens, jam tandem in Domino 
requievit, adoptionem scilicet corporis obruti Redemptionem, expectabundus. 

[Here lies the Reverend John Swift, who died in 1745, April 24"'' in the 67th year 
of his age. ' Adomed-with gifts both native and acquired ; he was a master in the art 
of teaching ; a model of living, conforming all his acts to the divine laws. To all those 
with whom he had to do, he exhihited the wisdom of the serpent and the innocence of 
the dove. While living, he was A'^ery irtuch beloved, and he left at death a grateful, 
though mournful memory to his friends. Through many scenes and trials, and even 
•unto death, he manifested a rare discretion, modesty, patience, and submission to the 
Divine Will. He at length rests with the Lord, looking for the adoption, that is, the 
■Redemption of the body.] 



GROTON. 



Groton was originally a grant by the general court, made May 
'23, 1655, of eight miles square, to Mr. Dean Winthrop and others, 
at a place called Petapaway^ and included the greatest part of the 
towns of Pepperell and Shirley, and parts of Dunstable, Westford, 
Littleton, and Harvard. Mr. Dean Winthrop, being a son of John 
Winthrop, the first governor of Massachusetts colony, probably 
named the place Groton, from the town in England whence the 
family came. The grant, in the quaint language of the times, says, 
"the court judgeth it meet to grant the petitioners eight miles 
square in the pllace desired, to make a comfortable plantation," and 
it is ordered to be laid out " with all convenient speed, that so 
no encouragement may be wanting to the petitioners for the speedy 
procuring of a godly minister among them." Among the first set- 



390 G R T O N . 

tiers were William Martin, Richard Blood, Robert Blood, and John 
Lakin. The precise time of the first settlement is not known, but 
a committee of the general court, appointed October, 1659, report, 
that there are not above four or five families there, though "it 
will afford a comfortable accommodation for sixty families at 
least." 

The first town record to be found is as follows : — '• At a generall 
town meeting, June 23^' 1662, It was agreed uppon, that the house 
for the minister should be set uppon the plane whare it is now 
framing." Also, " that the meeting-house shall be sett upon the 
right hand of the path, by a small white oak, marked at the sow- 
west side with two notches and a blaze." The number of inhabit- 
ants increased until the year 1676, when, having been three times 
attacked by the Indians, in Philip's war, they abandoned the place. 
A new settlement took place, it is believed, in the spring of 1678. 

The first minister of Groton was the Rev. Samuel Willard, or- 
dained 1663, left the inhabitants in 1676. His successors have 
been Gershom Hobart, ordained 1678, dismissed 1704 or 5 ; Dud- 
ley Broadstreet, ordained 1706, dismissed 1712; Caleb Trowbridge, 
ordained 1715, died 1760 ; Samuel Dana, ordained 1761, dismis- 
sed 1775 ; Daniel Chaplin, ordained 1778, retired by reason of age 
1825; Charles Robinson, installed 1826, dismissed 1838; Rev. 
George W. Wells, installed Nov. 21, 1838. A Presbyterian society 
was incorporated in 1788, but it never had an ordained minister, 
and has become extinct. In 1826, a part of the first parish seceded 
and formed an Orthodox society ; whose ministers have been John 
Todd, ordained 1827, dismissed 1833 ; Charles Kitteridge, install- 
ed 1833, dismissed 1835 ; Dudley Phelps, installed 1836, the pre- 
sent minister. A Baptist society was formed in 1832, and they 
have Amasa Saunderson for their minister. 

Groton, as now bounded, is of a very irregular shape, having 
many angles in its boundary lines. None of its original boundaries 
are retained, except one mile on Townsend on the west, and 
Massapoag Pond on the N. East. Its present area is about 27,350 
acres ; one fourth of the whole, viz. the central part, is an excellent 
soil for grass, corn, barley, or most crops usually cultivated in New 
England. 

The village, in the center of the town, contains two meeting- 
houses, one academy, two district school-houses, five mercantile 
shops, two taverns, and seventy other dwelling-houses. The en- 
graving is cl north-western view of the Unitarian church, and the 
academy, seen on the right, in the southern part of the village. 
This place is 17 miles from Concord, 14 to Lowell, 30 to Worces- 
ter, and 34 to Boston. Population, 2,057. 

At the west part of the town, about two and a half miles from 
the center, on the Squannacook river, there is a paper-mill, which 
will employ from 8 to 10 hands. There are two tanneries, and 4 
grist and saw-mills. The town is mostly a farming town, and 
formerly has raised large quantities of hops, but the recent low 
prices have discouraged the hop growers. In 1837, the value of 



GROTON 



391 




North-western view of the Congregational Church and Academy , Groton. 

clothing manufactured was $24,000; number of garments, 11,000; 
males employed. 3 ; females, 245. 

The following, respecting the Indian depredations in this town, 
is from Dwight's Travels, vol. ii. 

'■■ Groton, in the early perioJs of its settlement, experienced its share of Indian de- 
predations. It was incorpoxated in 1655. In 1676, a body of savages entered it on the 
second of March, plundered several houses, and carried off a number of cattle. On the 
ninth, they ambushed four men, who were driving their carts, killed one, and took a 
second ; but, while they were disputing about the manner of putting him to death, he 
escaped. On the thirteenth, about four hundred of these people assaulted Groton again. 
The inhabitants, alarmed by the recent destruction of Lancaster, had retreated into five 
garrisoned houses. Four of these M'ere within musket-shot of each other. The fifth 
stood at the distance of a mile. Between the four neighboring ones were gathered all 
the cattle belonging to the inhabitants. 

" In the morning two of the Indians showed themselves behind a hill, near one of 
the four garrisons, with an intention to decoy the inhabitants out of their fortifications. 
The alarm was immediately given. A considerable part of the men in this garrison, 
and several from the next, imprudently went out to surprise them ; when a large body, 
who had been lying in ambush for this purpose, arose instantaneously, and fired upon 
them. The English fled. Another party of the Indians, at the same time, came upon 
the rear of the nearest garrison, thus deprived of its defence, and began to pull down 
the palisades. The flying English retreated to the next garrison ; and the women and 
children, forsaken as they were, escaped, under the protection of Providence, lo the 
same placb of safety. The ungarrisoned houses in the town were then set on fire by 
the savages. 

" In a similar manner they attempted to surprise the solitary garrison, one of their 
people being employed to decoy the English out of it, into an ambush in the neighbor- 
hood. The watch, however, discovering the ambush, gave the alarm, and prevented 
the mischief intended. The next day the Indians withdrew ; having burnt about forty 
dwelling-houses and the church, together with barns and out-houses. John Monoco, 
their leader, during the preceding day, with the same spirit which is exhibited with so 
much vanity and haughtiness in the proclamations of General Burgoyne, the duke ot 
Brunswick when entering France, and General Le Clerk when attacking St. Domin- 
go, insulted the inhabitants of Groton with his former exploits in burning Lancaster 
and Medfield ; threatened that he would burn Groton, Chelmsford, Concord, and Bos- 
ton ; and declared, amid many taunts and blasphemies, that he could do whatever he 
pleased. His threatening against Groton he executed ; but, instead of burning the other 
touTis, he was taken a prisoner a few months afterwards, led through the streets of 
Boston with a halter about his neck, and hanged. His three compeers in haughtiness 



392 HOLLISTON. 

met with a fato differing in form from his ; but by the inglorious and miserable end 
of their efforts are exhibited to mankind as solemn monitions of the madness, as well 
as impiety, of arrogating to a human arm that disposal of events which belongs only 
to God. One would think, that Sennacherib and Rabshakeh had long since taught this 
lesson effectually. For Monoco, ignorance may be pleaded ; for the Christian boasters 
there is no excuse." 



HOLLISTON. 

The first settleineuts were made in this tavvn about 1710. In 
1724, the people had increased to thirty-four famihes, and finding 
it inconvenient, on account of the distance, to attend meeting and 
do duty in Sherburne, they petitioned the to\vn to set them off, 
which was amicably voted. The same year, (1724) they were 
incorporated by the general court ; and as a mark of respect for 
Thomas Hollis. of London, one of the patrons of the university in 
Cambridge, the place was called Holliston. The soil in this town 
is generally of a good quality ; a small branch of Charles river rises 
in this town, and affords a good water-power. There is one 
woollen factory, one of thread, and one of combs. A considerabfe 
quantity of brogans are made here, employing about 300 men, wo- 
men and children. There are 2 churches, 1 for Congregationalists 
and 1 Methodist. Distance, 21 miles S. of Concord, 6 N. E. of 
Hopkinton, and 24 south-westerly from Boston. Population, 1,775. 
In 1837, there were manufactured in this town 20,803 pairs of 
boots, 244,578 pairs of shoes, valued at ,^241,026; males employ- 
ed, 312; females. 149. There were 26,580 straw bonnets manu- 
factured, valued'at $33,210. 

The first church was gathered, and Mr. James Stone was or- 
dained the first pastor here, in 1728, In 1743, Mr. Joshua Prentiss 
was ordained the second minister ; he continued pastor 42 years, 
and died in 1788. He was succeeded by Mr. Timothy Dickinson, 
the third minister, who was ordained in 1789. December, 1753, 
and January, 1754, were remarkable for what is called the great 
sickness in Holliston. " The patients were violently seized with a 
piercing pain in the breast or side ; to be seized with a pain in the 
head was not common ; the fever high. The greater part of those 
that died were rational to the last; they lived three, four, five, and 
six days after they \vere taken. In some instances, it appears, 
they strangled, by not being able to expectorate ; some in this case, 
who were thouglit to be in their last moments, were recovered by 
administering oil. In about six weeks fifty-three persons died, 
forty-one of Avhom died within twenty-two days." The following 
account of this sickness is extracted from the account kept by the 
Rev. Mr. Prentiss. "December 31st, seven lay unburied. .Janu- 
ary 4th, ten lay unburied, in which week seventeen died. There 
were two, three, four, and five buried for many days successively. 
Of those who died, fifteen were members of this church." "WT; 
are extremely weakened by the desolation death has made in 
many of the most substantial families among us; four families 
wholly broken up, losing both their heads. The sickness was so 



HOPKINTON. 393 

prevalent, that but few families escaped ; for more than a month, 
there was not enough well to tend the sick and bury the dead, 
though they spent their whole time in these services ; but the sick 
suflered and the dead lay unburied; and that, notwithstanding 
help was procured, and charitable assistance afforded, by many in 
the neighboring towns." "We are a small town, consisting of 
about eighty families, and not more than four hundred souls." 



HOPKINTON. 



The principal part of this town was purchased of the natives*]^'^ 
Mr. Leverett, president of Harvard college : its Indian name was 
Quansigomog. A hill in the eastern part of the town was called 
by the natives Megonko. It was purchased for the purpose of 
perpetuating the legacy of Edward Hopkins, Esq. to Harvard col- 
lege, and was called Hopkinton, in honor to his name. It was 
leased out by the president and trustees of the college to the first 
settlers. The settlement began about the year 1710 or 12, and 
was never interrupted ; the town was incorporated in December, 
1715. 

Hopkinton is hilly, interspersed with small valleys, and well 
watered. There are two ponds in the westerly part of this town. 
From one, which is called White- Hall Pond, issues one of the ex- 
treme branches of the Concord river, which empties itself into the 
Merrimac. From the other, called the North Pond, (although it 
lies nearly south of the first, about two miles distant,) issues one 
of the extreme branches of Providence or Blackstone river. One 
of the extreme branches of Charles river also takes its rise in this 
town. The Mineral Spring in this town, near White-Hall Pond, 
is much visited. It contains carbonic acid, and carbonate of lime, 
and iron. There is a large and commodious hotel at this place, 
and it is a fashionable place of resort, situated within three and a 
half miles of the Boston and Worcester railroad, at Westborough, 
and 7 miles from the Blackstone canal, at Northbridge. There 
are in the town 4 churches, (2 Congregational, 1 Episcopal, and 1 
Methodist,) 2 cotton factories, and 2,166 inhabitants. Distant 24 
miles S. W. of Concord, 30 northerly from Providence, 14 easterly 
from Worcester, and 30 miles S. W. of Boston. In 1837, there 
were 3 cotton mills; 3,428 spindles; cotton goods manufactured, 
555,900 yards ; valued at $55,350. There were 72,300 pairs of 
boots and 15,600 pairs of shoes manufactured, valued at $152,300; 
males employed, 234 ; females, 24. There were 2,950 straw bonnets 
manufactured, valued at $5,350. 

The first church was gathered, and the first pastor. Rev. Samuel 
Barrett, was ordained, in 1724; in 1772, Rev. Elijah Fitch was 
ordained colleague pastor with Mr. Barrett. Mr. Fitch died in 
1788, and was succeeded by Rev. Nathaniel Howe, in 1791. Some 
time after the ordination of Mr. Barrett, the first Congregational 
53 



394 



H OP KINTON. 




Western view in the central part of Hopkinton. 

minister, a number of the inhabitants of the Episcopal order Uving 
in the town, the Rev. Roger Price, a gentleman of eminence and 
ability, came from England, and erected a house near the middle 
of the town for public vv'^orship, and endowed it with a glebe, and 
public worship was performed under his nnnistry for a number of 
years. After his removal to England, he sent the Rev. Mr. Trout- 
beck, who officiated as minister for some time. — The two churches 
in the central part of the town, represented in the above engraving, 
are situated on an elevated hill, which descends with considerable 
abruptness to the eastward. 

In or about the year 174(5, twelve men and a boy were enlisted 
in this town, by Capt. Prescott, of Concord, to go upon the expe- 
dition to Cuba. They went, and all died there, except the boy. 
The boy returned : and it was remarked by the old people, that 
they were twelve of the most robust young men in the town. Their 
names were 

Francis Peirce, 

Thomas Belloes, 

Eleazer Rider, 

Cornehus Claflen, 
Within the limits of this town was formerly a village of praying 
Indians; the following is from Gookin's account: 

" Maguukaquog is the seventh town where praying Indians 
inhabit. The signification of the place's name is a place of great 
trees. It is situated partly within the bounds of Natick and partly 
upon the lands granted to the country. It Heth west-southerly from 
Boston about twenty-four miles, near the mid-way between Natick 
and Hassanamessit. The number of iheir families is about eleven, 
and about tifty-tive souls. There are men and women, eight 
members of the church at Natick, and about fifteen baptized per- 
sons. The quantity of the land belonging to it is about three 
thousand acres. The Indians plant upon a great hill, which is 



Edward Carrel, 
Heury Walker, 
Henry Walker, Jr., 
Gideon (iould. 



Samuel Frale, 
Samuel Clemons, 
Ebenezer CoUer, 
Samuel Rosseau. 



HOPKINTON. 395 

very fertile. These people worship God and keep the Sabbath, 
and observe civil order, as do the other towns. Tliey have a con- 
stable and other officers. Their ruler's name is Pamphaman; a 
sober and active man, and pious. Their teacher's name is .Tob ; 
a person well accepted for piety and abilities among them. This 
town was the last settling of the old towns. They have plenty of 
corn, and keep some cattle, horses, and swine, for which the place 
is well accommodated." 

The following is extracted from a second edition of a Centur^r 
Sermon, preached in this place in 1815, by the Rev. Mr. Howe. It 
is introduced here to show the nature of some of the controversies 
which, owing to human imperfection, will occasionally take place 
between a minister and his people. Of the merits of the following 
case, the author has no information, excepting what is published 
in the sermon. He would, however, observe, that in controversies 
of this kind there is generally some fault on both sides, and that 
men, when associated in a body, will oftentimes do acts which they 
would be ashamed to do in their private capacity. Mr. Howe, in 
the course of this sermon, says — 

"When the public took sides upon politics, your minister was a federalist, though he 
was sensible a very great majority of the town were of different sentiments. He be- 
lieved then, as he believes now, that he ought to have more regard to his country than, 
to any particular part of it ; and when he has occasionally preached political sermons, 
they have repeatedly occasioned uncomfortable feelings. 

"Another difficulty your minister has had to encounter was the want of support. A 
vast change has taken place in the expenses of dressing and living since my ordina- 
tion, and yet no addition has been made to my salary. 

" When a candidate, I determined I would never settle till I saw a reasonable pros- 
pect of a comfortable support, and when settled that I would never complain of my 
salary. I remained of this mind till I had been your minister for fifteen years. 

"Borne down with the fixtigues of manual labor, pressed into the woods in the win- 
ter, to the plough in the spring, and into the meadow in the summer, to support my 
family comfortably and fulfil my promises, I felt the business of the ministry was 
greatly neglected ;— that it was impossible for me to do what ought to be done in my 
profession, unless the people did more toward my support. 

" I committed- my thoughts to paper, then communicated them to four brethren of 
the church, then to the church as a body, and afterward to the town." 

The following is extracted from this communication : 

'•'When you gave me a call to settle with you in the gospel ministry, and the town 
had concurred and made their proposals, I took the matter under serious consideration. 
I considered the unanimity of the church and town as favorable circumstances, and 
the proposals that were made with respect to my support, as reasonable, though not 
large. The ministerial land I was sensible was good, though the state of cultivation 
was very bad, and the fences extremely poor. It then appeared to me, if I should be 
favored with prosperity, with the knowledge I thought I had of agriculture, that I should 
be able to support a family. With those views I gave my answer in the affirmative, 
was ordained, and soon had a family. At this time, every article of provision was low, 
labor was cheap, and my income w as sufficient for my support. But within two years 
from my ordination, money began to depreciate, and the price of labor to rise ; my sala- 
ry has continued depreciating and labor rising, till it is not worth more than half what 
it was when I was settled. 

"I have always been sensible of the difficulty of transacting money business with 
any people ; and from this impression have labored with my hands, to "make provision 
for my family, and fulfil my promises. I have scarcely ever suffered myself to make 
any complaints ; but I find at present, that my expenses are increasing and my income 
decreasing. This has led me into considerable perplexity with respect to my duty. If 



396 HOPKINTON. 

I ask a dismission and remove, it must be \nth a considerable loss of property. If I 
remain as I am, I see no reason to expect any better times. If I exert myself more in 
laboring with my hands, it must be disadvantageous both to you and me ; for then I 
must neglect my professional business. If I advertise my house and land for sale, it 
"will appear precipitate. If I propose to the town to purchase it for the next minister, 
and ask them to dismiss me ; I know not how this will operate. I do not wish to leave 
the ministry ; but if I should ever remove, it is full time, for I have probably spent th© 
best part of my life among you. Fifteen years ago, the expense of candidate preach- 
ing was four or five dollars a Sabbath ; now it is eight or ten. Then the members of 
our general court had one dollar per day, now they have two dollars per day. A com- 
mon laborer at that time had fifty-five or sixty dollars per year ; now they have 130, 
140, and some 150 dollars a year. ****** 

" In these circumstances, brethren, I request your advice. Shall I ask a dismission ? 
Or, shall I ask to have the depreciation made up on my salary? Shall I ask the town 
to purchase my house and land ? Or, shall I advertise it in a public paper ? Or, ought 
I to remain satisfied as I am? 

" It costs me this year one hundred and fifty dollars for one man's labor, who can- 
not do my business either winter or summer ; and if I add to this sum the reasonable 
expense of his board, it will amount to as much as the town pay to my support. It 
will be said that the ministerial land is much more productive than formerly : this is 
true ; but how comes it to pass ? Is it not in consequence of the labor and expense I 
have been at to cultivate and fence it ? Some years I have expended as much on the 
land as the whole of the income. 

" If it should be said I have other income, I ask, is it right for me to spend the pro- 
perty that was left to my wife, by her parents, while I am preaching to a people well 
able to support me, when, perhaps, by and by, she may be left in poverty and dis- 
tress ? 

" If a farm be let out at the halves, the buildings and fences will soon be out of re- 
pair, and the land impoverished. If all the labor be hired to carry on a farm, and pay 
the other expenses, the income to the owner will be but small. I say these things to 
show you my situation, and to convince you, that, should I ask a dismission in a few 
months, you ought not to think it unreasonable." 

The manner in which the town acted upon Mr. Howe's com- 
munication is seen by the following. 

" The town met on Dec. 15, 1806. Mr. Howe was called upon to read to the town 
the communication he had made to the church. Upon which the vote was put, ' to see 
if the town will (on account of the depreciation of money) add $116 67 to the yearly 
salary of the Rev. Nathaniel Howe, till such time as labor and provisions fall in their 
prices as low as when he was ordained.' This passed in the negative by a large ma- 
jority. 

"Then Mr. Howe proposed to see if the town would add $116 67 till such time as 
the members of our general court receive less than two dollars per day for their ser- 
vices. This was negatived by a large majority. 

" Then Mr. Howe proposed to see if the town will add S116 67 for seven years, from 
the first day of January next. This passed in the negative by a large majority. 

" Then Mr. Howe proposed to see if the town will make up one half the depreciation 
on his salary, from this time, while he continues their minister. This passed in the 
negative by a large majority. 

" Then jlr. Howe proposed to see if the town will, in future, give him two hundred 
dollars for his annual salary, and average it on labor, corn, rye, cider, butter and 
cheese, beef and pork, at the prices they bore on the day of his ordination. This 
passed in the negative by a large majority. 

" Then Mr. Howe proposed to see if the town will purchase his house and land, and 
keep it for the next minister. This passed in the negative by a large majority. 

" Then Mr. Howe proposed to see if the town will request the church by a vote to 
grant him a dismission. This passed in the negative by a large majority. 

" Then Mr. Howe said he had hut one proposition more to make ; which was, to see 
It the town were willing he should publish the communication he had made to the 
church, and read to the town this day, and all the doings of the town thereon. And 
this also passed in the negative by a large majority. 

Attest, EPHRABI READ, Town Clerk." 

Near the conclusion of the sermon Mr. Howe says, — 



LEXINGTON. 397 

" My brethren, may I ask a question, a plain, simple question ? How shall I obtain 
your consent ? Shall I take silence for consent ? Your countenances discover a wil- 
lingness. 

" The question is this : do you know by what means I have become so rich as tc 
have a great house, finished and furnished ; a farm, a herd of cattle, a flock of sheep, 
horses, and money at interest ? I say nothing about my debts to-day. 

" Shall I answer the question ? The principal reason is this ; because I have been 
doing ijour business, and neglecting my own. What is your business ? Your business 
is to support your minister ; and that is what I have been doing, for more than twenty 
years. And what is mi/ husijiess? My business is to study and preach ; and in this I 
have never abounded. It is true, I have been absent from public worship not more 
than four or five Sabbaths for twentj^-five years ; but I have frequently been present, 
and attempted to preach, when it has been mortiiymg to me, and could not have been 
edifying to you. I have sometimes administered reproof, both to the church and the 
society, in a manner that has been thought to discover some degree of severity ; but in 
these cases you have always had good sense enough to know you richly desei-ved it." 



LEXINGTON 



This town was incorporated in 1712. The face of the town is 
rather rough and uneven, and the soil is not of the first quality for 
cultivation. There are, however, some good farms and extensive 
meadows on the branches of the Shawshine river, several of which 
rise in this town. In 1837, the value of boots and shoes manufac- 
tured in this place was ^12,278; fur caps manufactured, 60,000; 
muffs and neck ties, 600; fur capes, 400 ; fur gloves, 1,000 pairs; 
value of these articles, $73,000 ; males employed, 25 ; females, 7.5 ; 
capital invested, $55,000. There was also an establishment for 
calico printing. Population, 1,622. Distance. 7 miles from Con- 
cord, 13 from LoAvell, and 10 from Boston. 

The following is a representation of the far-famed spot where the 
first blood was shed at the opening of the great drama of the Revo- 
lution. The engraving is a western view from the Concord road, 
showing the Unitarian church, and the monument on Lexington 
green, or common. The monument is situated on a small eleva- 
tion of ground on the western side of the green ; a small school- 
house stood on this spot at the time the British troops fired upon 
the Americans, on the memorable 19th of April, 1775. The church 
seen in the engraving stands on the same spot where the ancient 
church stood, which was taken down in 1794, when the present 
building was erected. The following is the inscription on the 
monument : — 

Sacred to the Liberty and the Rights of Mankind I ! ! — The Freedom & Independ- 
ence of America, — Sealed and defended with the blood of her sons. — This Monument 
is erected — By the Inhabitants of Lexington — Under the patronage, and at the expense 
of — The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, — To the memory of their Fellow-Citizens 
— Ensign Robert Munroe, Messrs. Jonas Parker, — Samuel Hadley, Jonathan Harring- 
ton, Jun' — Isaac Muzzy, Caleb Harrington, and John Brown — Of Lexington, and 
Asahel Porter of Woburn — Who fell on this field, the first victims to the — Sword of 
British Tyranny & Oppression — On the morning of the ever memorable — Nineteenth 
of April, An. Dom. 1775. — The Die was Cast ! ! ! — The Blood of these Martyrs — In the 
cause of God & their Country, — Was the Cement of the Union of these States then — 
Colonies, &; gave the spring to the Spirit, Firmness — And Resolution of their Fellow- 



398 



LEXINGTON 




Congregat'wnal Church and Monument at Lexington. 

Citizens — They rose as one man to revenge their brethren's — Blood, and at the point 
of the sword to assist & — Defend their native Rights. — They nobly dared to be free ! ! 
— The contest was long, bloody & affecting, — Righteous Heaven approved the solemn 
appeal ; — ^Victory crowned their arms ; — And the Peace, Liberty, & Independence, of 
the United — States of America, was their glorious Reward. — Built in the year 1799. 

The house seen between the church and the monument was in 
1775 the pubhc inn, kept by jMr. John Buckman ; it is now the re- 
sidence of Mr. Rufus Merriam. The Americans at the time they 
were fired upon were paraded, perhaps, four or five rods eastward 
of the monument, towards the barn seen in the engraving. In tlie 
extreme distance, on the right, is seen the tower of the Baptist 
church, on the Boston road. The village in the vicinity of the 
churches consists of about forty dwelling-houses, most of which 
are situated south-westward of the monument. 

The following is a view of the ancient meeting-house and other 
buildings, as they appeared in 1775. In the afternoon, on their 
retreat, the British troops fired a cannon ball through this meeting- 
house ; it passed out through the pulpit window. The drawing 
was made from a large print, published by Mr. Amos Doolittle, of 
New Haven, Con., in 1775. Mr. Doolittle and Mr. Earl, who 
made the original drawing, were both members of the governor's 
guard at New Haven, which company, when the news of the 
bloodshed at Lexington reached New Haven, immediately volun- 
teered their services, took up their march for Boston, and joined the 
American army investing that place. Tiie company continued at 
Cambridge for a number of weeks before they returned. While 
here, Mr. Earl and Mr. Doolittle visited Lexington and Concord, 
and took a drawing of the buildings and surrounding scenery, par- 
ticularly at Lexington, where the first blood Vv^as shed.* 

* The author of this work would here state that he was personally acquainted with 
Mr. Doolittle, and has conversed with him repeatedly upon the subject of these draw- 



LEXINGTON 



399 




Viem of Lexmgtuii Mtctuig-liLiuse and Luckmaii's Tavern in 1776. 

" At about 10 o'clock in the evening of the 18th, a detachment 
of British troops, consisting of grenadiers and light infantry, in all 
about eight hundred, embarked from Boston in boats, and landed 
at Lechmere Point in Cambridge, just as the moon rose. To pre- 
vent discovery, they took a bypath leading to the main road, which 
obliged them to wade through marshy places and water to a con- 
siderable depth. 

" Governor Gage, by posting sentinels, endeavored to prevent the 
carrying intelligence of the embarkation of the troops into the 
country. But nothing of the kind could escape the notice of the 
vigilant and active General Warren and his compatriots. Colonel 
Revere and a Mr. Lincoln had been seasonably sent out of Boston, 
to give information to Hancock and Adams, and to others, of the 
movement of the British troops, and what might be expected. 
Revere and Lincoln, one through Charles*! own, the other through 
Roxbury, met at Lexington. They both brought written com- 
munications from General Warren, that a large body of the king's 
troops (supposed to be a brigade of twelve or fifteen hundred men) 
had embarked in boats, and gone over to Lechmere Point, and it 
was suspected they were ordered to seize and destroy the stores 
belonging to the colony, then deposited at Concord. The march 



ings. They were four in number, and were engraved by Mr. Doolitt]e. Plate 1. repre- 
sented the Battle of Lexington. Plate 2. A View of the Town of Concord, with the 
ministerial troops destroying the stores. Plate 3. The Battle at the North Bridge, at 
Concord. Plate 4. The Soiitli Part of Lexington, where the first detachment was joined 
by Lord Percy. Being familiar v.'ith these engravings, and having visited the places 
of which they are a representation, the author would state that these plates, though 
rude in execution, and defective in point of perspective, are from drawings taken on 
the spot, giving a faithful representation of the houses, <?cc., as they appeared at that 
time. These engravings may be considered as the first regular series of historical 
prints ever published in this country. Mr. Doolittle, the engraver, died in 1832, after 
having industriously applied himself to the business of engraving for more than half a 
century. The " Battle of Lexington'' was his first attempt in the art ; and it may be men- 
tioned, as somewhat remarkable, that the last day he was able to perform any labor, 
he assisted the author of tliis work in engraving a reduced copy of this plate. 



400 LEXINGTON. 

of the British troops was silent and rapid. A httle before 5 
o'clock, A. M., they arrived at Lexington, near the meeting-house, 
and in sight of the militia there collected." 

Major Pltcai/'}i, (who was afterwards killed at Bunker Hill,) 
led the van ; he rode up, and, addressing the militia as rebels, or- 
dered them to throw down their arms and disperse. This order, 
as far as it regarded the throwing doivn of their arms, appears not to 
have been obeyed. Pitcairn then fired his pistol, and, flourishing 
his sword, ordered his soldiers to fire. Eight of the Americans 
were killed ; three or four by the first fire of the British, the others 
after they had left the parade. The following deposition of Mr. 
Wood, of Woburn, published in Rev. Dr. Ripley's "History of the 
Fight at Concord," gives a circumstantial account of this event. 

" I, SvLVANus Wood, of Woburn, in the county of Middlesex and commonwealth of 
Massachusetts, aged seventy-four years, do testify and say, that on the morning of the 
19th of April, 1115, I. was an inhabitant of Woburn, living with Deacon Obediah Ken- 
dall; that about an hour before the break of day on said morning, I heard the Lexing- 
ton bell ring ; and fearing there was difficulty there, I immediately arose, took my gun, 
and with Robert Douglass went in haste to Lexington, which was about three miles 
distant. When I arrived there, I inquired of Captain Parker, the commander of the 
Lexington company, what was the news. Parker told me he did not know what to 
believe, for a man had come up about half an hour before, and informed him that the 
British troops were not on the road. But while we were talking, a messenger came 
up and told the captain that the British troops were within half a mile. Parker imme- 
diately turned to his drummer, William Diman, and ordered him to beat to arms, 
which was done. Captain Parker then asked me if I would parade with his company. 
I told him I would. Parker then asked me if the young man with me would parade. 
I spoke to Douglass, and he said he would follow the captain and me. By this time 
many of the company had gathered around the captain at the hearing of the drum, 
where we stood, which was about halfway between the meeting-house and Buckman's 
tavern. Parker says to his men, 'Every man of you, who is eq^iipped, follow me, — 
and those of you who are not equipped, go into the meeting-house and furnish your- 
selves from the magazine, and immediately join the company.' Parker led those of 
us who were equipped to the north end of Lexington common, near the Bedford road, 
and formed us in single file. I was stationed about in the center of the company. 
While we were standing, I left my place, and went from one end of the company to the 
other, and counted every man who was paraded, and the whole number was thirty- 
eight and no more.* Just as I had finished and got back to my place, I perceived the 
British troops had arrived on the spot between the meeting-house and Buckman's, 
near where Captain Parker stood when he first led off his men. The British troops 
immediately wheeled so as to cut off those who had gone into the meeting-house. The 
British troops approached us rapidly in platoons, with a general officer on horseback 
at their head. The officer came up to within about two rods of the center of the com- 
pany, where I stood, the first platoon being about three rods distant. They there 
halted. Thp officer then swung his sword, and said, ' Lay down your arms, you damn'd 
rebels, or you arc all dead men — fire.' Some guns were fired by the British at us from 
the first platoon, but no person was killed or hurt, being probably charged only with 
powder. Just at this time. Captain Parker ordered every man to take care of himself. 
The company immediately dispersed ; and while the company was dispersing and 
leaping over the wall, the second platoon of the British fired, and killed some of our 
men. There was not a giin fired by any of Captain Parker's company within my 
knowledge. I was so situated that I must have known it, had any thing of the kind 
taken place before a total dispersion of our company. I have been intimately acquaint 
ed with the inhabitants of Lexington, and particularly with those of Captain Parker's* 
company, and, with one exception, I have never heard any of them say or pretend that 
there was any firing at the British from Parker's company, or any individual in it, un- 
til within a year or two. One member of the company told me, many years since, that 

* This does not include those who went into the meetmg-house and were " cut off.' 



LINCOLN. 401 

after Parker's company had dispersed, and he was at some distance, he gave them ' the 
guts of his gun.' 

" After the British had begun their march to Concord, I returned to the common, and 
found Robert Roe and Jonas Parlcer lying dead at the north corner of the common, 
near the Bedford road, and others dead and wounded. I assisted in carrying the dead 
into the meeting-house. I then proceeded towards Concord with my gun, and when I 
came near the tavern in Lexington, now kept by Mr. Viles, I saw a British soldier 
seated on the bank by the road. I went to him, with my gun in readiness to fire, if he 
should offer to resist. I took his gun, cutlass, and equipments from him. I then 
proceeded with him towards Lexington, and meeting a Mr. Welch and another person, 
I delivered the prisoner to them. 

" After Welch arrived in Lexington with the prisoner, I understood that another 
prisoner was taken by Mr. John Flagg, and that they were conducted to Burlington, 
and put under the care of Captain James Reed. I believe that the soldier who surren- 
dered his gun to me was the first prisoner taken by the Americans on that day. 

SYLVANUS WOOD." 

" Middlesex, ss. June 11th, 1826. Then the above-named Sylvanus Wood personally 
appeared, and subscribed and made oath to the foregoing affidavit. 

" Before me, NATHAN BROOKS, Justice of the Peace:' 

The following is copied from an inscription on a monument in 
the Lexington grave-yard. 

Here lies the body of his Excellency William Eustiss, who was born at Cambridge, 
June 10th, 175.3, and died in Boston, Feb. 6th, 1825. He served his country as a sur- 
geon through the Revolutionary War. In her political affairs he subsequently took 
an active lead : he successively filled the distinguished places of Secretary at War 
of the United States, Envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary at the Court 
of the Netherlands, Representative to the National Congress, and Governor of the 
Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 

To the honored and beloved memory of a Revolutionary Patriot, a servant of his 
country in its highest trusts, a friend to his country in its darkest hours, an eminent 
orator, a practical statesman, a dutiful son, an affectionate husband, this monument 
is erected by his mourning widcnv, Caroline Langdon Eustiss. He hastened to his 
country's service on the eventful morning of the 19th of April, 1775, and here, 
within the precincts, hallowed by the blood which was shed that day, after an hon- 
orable and useful life, he rests in peace and hope, conformably to his last wish, by 
his mother's side. 



LINCOLN 



This town was incorporated as the second precinct of Concord 
in 1746. It was incorporated as a town in 17,54, by the name of 
Lincoln, which name was given by Chambers Russell, Esq., whose 
ancestors were from Lincolnshire, England. The town averages 
about 5 miles in length and 3 in breadth. It has all the varieties 
of soil, from the richest to the poorest. Though rough and un- 
even, it contains some of the best farms in the county. The 
most celebrated is that known at ditFerent times as the Russell, 
Codman, and Percival farm. Flint's or Sandy Pond, containing 
about 197 acres, derived its name from its being situated on the 
farm of Ephraim Flint, one of the original owners of Lincoln. It 
is a favorite resort for pickerel ; and its fisheries have been con- 
sidered of so much importance, that an act was passed by the le- 
gislature, in 1824, prohibiting any person, under the penalty of $2, 
from fishing with '^ more than one hook" between the 1st of De- 
54 



402 LITTLETON. 

cember and April. Lincoln is three and a half miles south-east- 
erly from Concord, and 16 north-westerly from Boston. Popula- 
tion, 694. It contains one Congregational church, which is situ- 
ated on a hill 470 feet above high-water mark in Boston. This 
building has been several times repaired. A steeple was built in 
1755, and furnished with a bell, tlie gift of Mr. .Joseph Brooks. 
The first minister, Rev. AVm. Lawrence, was ordained in 1748. 
The following is the inscription on his monument: 

"In memory of the Rev. William Lawrence, A. M., Pastor of the church of Christ 
m Lincoln, who died April 11, 1780, in the 57th year of his age. and 32d of his minis- 
try. He was a gentleman of good abilities, both natural and acquired, a judicious 
divine, a faithful minister, and firm supporter of the order of the churches. In his last 
sickness, which was long and distressing, he exhibited a temper characteristic of the 
minister and christian. 'Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of 
life.' " 



LITTLETON 



This town was formerly a gore of land not included in any of 
the adjoining towns : it remained in this state many years after 
they were incorporated. It was but thmly inhabited by some 
English people, together with Indians living on their ancient settle- 
ments, and was known by the name of Naslwba. In 1715. upon 
the petition of one Whitcomb and Powers, this place was incorpo- 
rated into a toAvn, by the name of Littleton. It was so called after 
the name of the Hon. George Lyttlefon, Esq., member of Parlia- 
ment, and one of the commissioners of the treasury. In return for 
the honor done to his name, the noble gentleman presented this 
town with a church bell ; but, on account of an error in spelling the 
name, caused by substituting the I for the y, which formed the 
word Littleton, the valuable present miscarried, and was finally 
withheld, under the pretence that no such town as Lyttleton, to 
which the bell was to be presented, could anywhere be found. It 
is stated, that the same bell is now in the possession and use of 
the town in this commonwealth which purchased it. The first 
settled minister was Rev. Benjamin Shattuck, who was ordained 
in Dec. 1717. He continued m the ministry about 13 years, and 
was succeeded by Rev. Daniel Rogers, 'wiio died in 1782. after a 
ministry of more than half a century. He was succeeded by Rev. 
Edmuufl Foster, who was ordained in 1781. 

Littleton is principally an agricultural town. Population, 876. 
Distance, 10 utiles from Concord, 5 miles from(iroton, and 26 from 
Boston. Mr. (xookin, in his history of the Indian tribes, gives the 
following account of this place : 

''Nashoba is the sixth praying Indian town. This village is situated in a manner 
in the center between Chelmsford, Lancaster, Groton, and Concord, about 25 miles 
west-north-west of Boston. The inhabitants are about ten families, and consequently 
about fifty souls. This village is (bur miles square. The people live here as in In- 
dian villages, upon planting corn, fishing, hunting, and sometimes labouring with the 
English people. Their ruler of late years was John Ahatawana, a pious man. After 



LITTLETON. 403 

his decease, Pennekennet, or Pennekannet, became their chief. Their teacher's name 
H'as John Thomas, a sober and pious man. The father of this John (Thomas) was 
murdered by the Maquas Indians, in the most secret manner, as he was fishing for 
eels at his wear. He was a pious and useful man In this place are or- 
chards of apples. Near unto this town is a pond, wherein, at some seasons, there is a 
strange rumbling noise, as the Indians affirm; the reason thereof is not yet known. 
Some have considered the hill adjacent as hollow, wherein the wind, being pent, is the 
cause of this rumbling, as in earthquakes. At thi.s place they attend civil and reli- 
gious order, as in other praying towns ; and they have a constable and other ofiicers. 
This town was deserted during the Maquas war ia 1676 ; but is now again peoplefl, 
and in a hopeful way to prosper."* 

" The pond above mentioned" (says Mr. Foster in his Century 

Sermon in 1815) "must be Nagog It lies on the eastern 

extremity of this town." The report of a strange noise, heard 
occasionally in this pond, was not without foundation. But the 
noise was not in the water, as they imagined, but from a hill, ly- 
ing in a north-west direction, and about half a mile distant from 
the pond, partly in Littleton and partly in Westford, known by 
the name of Nashoba Hill. A rumbling noise, from time to time, 
has been heard from this hill ever since the settlement of the town. 
It has been repeated within two years past, and is called "the 
shooting of Nashoba Hill." 

At the south-easterly part of the town, and on the northerly side 
of a pond lying there, the Indians erected and maintained a fort, 
which gave to the waters adjoining the name of Fort Pond. The 
fort was built on an elevated spot of ground, occupied and im- 
proved by the Indians, according to their manner of cultivation. 
The principal owner, or oldest possessor, of this plot of ground, 
was an Indian by the name of Spean ; and the land is known to 
this day by the name of " Spean's Hill." "The oldest dwelling- 
house in this town (says Mr. Foster) was erected as a garrison- 
house for the defence of the English settlers against their Indian 
enemies. Tliis ancient and much decayed building is situated oia 
the south-easterly side of Nashoba Hill. It is in possession of the 
family of Mr. Samuel Reed, deceased, is now inhabited by his 
widow, and is said to have been standhig more than 170 years." 
In the Indian war, Isaac and Jacob Shepherd were killed, and a 
young maid, about the age of 15, was taken captive by the Indians. 
She had been set to watch the enemy on a hill, which lies about a 
third of a mile south of Nashoba Hill, on the road leading to Bos- 
ton, and was called Q,uagana Hill. Tradition says that this girl 
was carried by the savages to Nashawa, now called Lancaster, or 
to some place in the neighborhood of it; that in the dead of night, 
she took a saddle from under the head of her Indian keeper, when 
sunk in sleep, increased by the fumes of ardent spirit, put the sad 
die on a horse, mounted on him, swam him across Nasha\va river, 
and so escaped the hands of her captors, and arrived safe to her 
relatives and friends. 

* Gookin's Historical Collections, chap. 7, p. 188. 



404 LOWELL. 

LOWELL. 

The city of Lowell is now a part of the land granted for a town, 
called Wamesit, by the general court to the Pawtucket Indians, 
once the most powerful tribe north of the Massachusetts. The his- 
torian Gookin states that " the tribe was almost wholly destroyed 
by the sickness in 1612 and '13; and at this day (1674) there are 
not above two hundred and fifty men, besides women and children. 
What that disease was, that so generally and mortally swept away 
these and other Indians in New England, I cannot learn. Doubt- 
less it was some pestilential disease. I have discoursed with some 
Indians, that were then youths, who say ' that their bodies were 
exceeding yellow before, and after they died,' describing it by a 
yellow garment they showed me." The following account of Wa- 
mesit is from Gookin's Historical account of the Indians. 

'•' Wamesit* is the fifth praying town ; and this place is situated upon the Merrimac 
river, being a neck of land where Concord river falleth into Merrimac river. It is about 
twenty miles from Boston, N. N. W., and within five miles of Billerica, and as much 
from Chelmsford ; so that it hath Concord river upon tlic W. N. W. and Merrimac upon 
the N. N. E. It hath about fifteen families, and consequently seventy -five souls. The 
quantity of land belonging to it is about twenty-five hundred acres. The land is fer- 
tile, and yieldeth plenty of corn. It is e.^cellently accommodated with a fishing place ; 
and there is taken a variety of fish in their season, as salmon, shad, lamprey-eels, stur- 
geon, bass, and divers others. There is a great confluence of Indians, that usually 
resort to this place in the fishing seasons. Of these strange Indians, divers are vicious 
and wicked, men and M^omen, which Satan makes use of to obstruct the prosperity of 
religion here. The ruler of this people is called Numphow. He is one of the blood 
of their chief sachems. Their teacher is called Samuel ; son to the ruler, a young man 
of good parts, and can speak, read, and write English competently. He is one of those 
that was bred up at school, at the charge of the corporation for the Indians. These 
Indians, if they were diligent and industrious, to which they have been frequently ex- 
cited, might get much by their fish, especially fresh salmon, which are of esteem and a 
good price at Boston in the season ; and the Indians being stored with horses of a low 
price, might furnish the market fully, being but a short distance from it. And divers 
other sorts of fish they might salt or pickle, as sturgeon and bass ; which would be 
much to their profit. But notwithstanding divers arguments used to persuade them, 
and some orders made to encourage them ; yet their idleness and improvidence doth 
hitherto prevail. 

" At this place, once a year, at the beginning of May, the English magistrate keeps 
his court, accompanied with Sir. Eliot, the minister ; who at this time takes his oppor- 
tunity to preach, not only to the inhabitants, but to as many of the strange Indians as 
can be persuaded to hear him ; of which sort, usually, in times of peace, there are con- 
siderable numbers at that season. And this place being an ancient and capital seal 
of Indians, they come to fish ; and this good man takes this opportunity to spread the 
net of the gospel, to fish for their souls." 

In 1726, Wamesit was annexed to the town of Chelmsford. 
Tradition says that the house erected by the Indians for public 
worship was built of logs, and located on the high ground at the 
head of Appleton street. As the English population increased, the 
Indians decreased, till their number became very small, when they 
sold out their remaining lands and removed to the north. Their 
last abiding place here was, it is stated, on Port Hill, around 
which portions of a trench dug by them are still visible. 

"The town of Lowell, as incorporated by an act of the legislature, 

* Now in Lowell, previously in Tewksbury. — For a number of interesting particu- 
lars respecting the history of Lowell, the author is indebted to Floyd's Lowell Direc- 
tory for 1837. 



LOWELL. 405 

passed on the first day of March, 1826, contained four square miles, 
and was formerly the north-eastern section of the town of Chelms- 
ford. The legislature, in 1834, annexed Belvidere village, the 
westerly corner of Tewksbury, to Lowell. This annexation ex- 
tends the territory of Lowell to nearly five square miles. The 
population of Lowell in 1820 was about 2,000 ; in 1828, 3,532 ; in 
1830, 6,477; in 1832, 10,2.54; in 1833, 12,363. In 1837, it was 
18,010. 

" The first effort to promote manufactures in this place were 
made in 1813. In consequence of the restrictions that were laid on 
commerce, and of the war with Great Britain, the attention of many 
enterprising men was directed to domestic manufactures. Capt. Phi- 
neas Whiting and Capt. Josiah Fletcher, having selected an eligible 
site on Concord river, at the Wamesit falls, about a hundred rods 
from the Merrimac, erected, at the expense of about .$3,000, a large 
wooden building for a cotton manufactory. In 1818, they sold 
their buildings and their right to the water-power, to Mr. Thomas 
Hurd, Mr. Hurd afterwards fitted up the wooden factory, and 
erected a large brick one and several dwelling-houses, and improv- 
ed the same for fabricating woollen goods. The woollen factory 
was destroyed by fire on the 30th of June, 1826, but was rebuilt 
immediately after. Mr. Hurd continued the business till the great 
pressure in 1828, when he was compelled to assign his property 
for the benefit of his creditors, and which was afterwards pur- 
chased by the Middlesex Company. 

" About the year 1820, Messrs. Patrick T. Jackson, Nathan Ap- 
pleton, and Kirk Boott, of Boston, entered into a design to form a 
company for the purpose of manufacturing cotton goods, particu- 
larly calicoes. They accordingly commenced an enquiry for a 
suitable water privilege. A large number of privileges were ex- 
amined, and, for various reasons, rejected. At length Mr. Paul 
Moody, then connected with the manufacturing establishments at 
Waltham, while on a visit to his friends in Amesbury, met with 
Mr. Worthen, a gentleman of taste, with views congenial to his own, 
to whom he mentioned that an extensive water privilege was want- 
ed by the above-named gentlemen. Mr. Worthen replied, ' Why 
do they not purchase the land around the Pawtucket falls, in 
Chelmsford? They can put up as many works as they please, and 
never want for water.' This conversation resulted in a visit of 
these gentlemen to this place, and from observation they were both 
satisfied that the privilege was exactly what was wanted. The 
Pawtucket canal was immediately purchased by Messrs. Jackson, 
Appleton, and Boott. 

" This canal was projected about the year 1790, and the propri- 
etors were incorporated in 1792, by the name of ' The Proprietors 
of the Locks and Canals on Merrimac River.' It was open for the 
purpose of facilitating the transportation of wood and lumber from 
the interior to Newburyport. It is about one mile and a half in 
length, had four sets of locks, and was built at the expense of 
$50,000. Its direction is nearly east, and it enters Concord river, 



406 



LOWELL 



just above its junction with the Merrimac, where the water is 
thirty-two feet lower than at the head of the Pawtucket faUs. 

'"It is worthy of remark, that a few /ears before the purchase was 
made by Messrs. Jackson, Appleton, and Boott, an engineer was 
sent to examine this place, by a number of gentlemen in Boston, 
who made a report that there was no water privilege here. The 
company made the first purchase of real estate on the 2d of No- 
vember, 1821. They began their work about the 1st of April, 1822. 
On t!ic 10th of July, they began to dig the canal broader and 
deeper, and let the water into it about the 1st of September, 1823. 
Five hundred men were constantly employed in digging and blast- 
ing. The gunpowder used in blasting amounted to ,$6,000, at one 
shilling per pound. The whole expense of digging the canal was 
about .'^120,000. It is now sixty feet wide, has three sets of locks, 
and the water in it is eight feet deep, and is calculated to supply 
about fifty mills. In digging this canal ledges were found, conside- 
rably below the old canal, which bore evident traces of its having 
once been the bed of the river. Many places were found worn 
into the ledge, as there usually are in falls, by stones kept con- 
stantly in motion by the water : some of these cavities were one 
foot or more in diameter and two feet deep. 

" The company was first incorporated by the name of the ' Mer- 
rimac Manufacturing Company.' In 1825, a new company was 
formed, called the ' Proprietors of Locks and Canals on Merrimac 
River,' to whom the Merrimac Manufacturing Company sold all the 
water privilege and all their real estate, together with the machine 
shop and its appurtenances, reserving water power sufficient for 
five factories and the print works, and also the buildings occupied 
for boarding-houses, and the land on which they are situated. 

" There are ten houses for public worship in Lowell : 3 Baptist, 3 
Congregational, 2 Methodist, 1 Universalist, and 1 Catholic ; 16 
primary schools, 5 grammar schools, and 1 high school. There 
are three banks, the 'City,' 'Lowell,' and ' llailroad' Banks. 
There are 5 newspapers published in this place. 

" Lowell became an incorporated city in February, 1836, by an 
act of the general court, accepted by a vote of the people April 11, 
On the first of May, the following officers were chosen for city go- 
vernment. 

CITY OFFICERS. 
Elisha Bartlett, Mayor. 
ALDERMEN. 
Oliver M. Whipple, Seth Ames, 
Aaron Mansur, Alexander Wright. 



William Austin, 
Benjamin Walker, 

Thomas Nesmith, 
Thomas Ordway, 
Samuel Garland, 
^orge BroAvnell, 



COMMON COUNCIL. 
Henry J. Baxter, 
Weld Spaulding, 
Jonathan Bowers, 
Sidney Spaulding, 



Stephen Mansur, 
John Mixer, 
John A. Savels, 
James Cook, 



LOWELL 407 

Cyril French, John Clark, Josiah B. French, 

Horace Howard, James Russell, Jonathan Tyler, 

William Wyman, H. W. Hastings, David Dana, 

Erastus Douglass, David Nourse, Tappan Wentworth. 

SCHOOL COMMITTEE. 
Rev. Lemuel Porter, John A. Knowles, Dr. John O. Green, 
Jacob Robbins, Rev. A. Blanchard, Thomas Hopkinson. 

Samuel A. Coburn, City Clerk. Zacheus Shed, City Marshall.'^ 

"The Lowell railroad, from the capital and commercial emporium of Massachusetts 
to Lowell, the greatest manufacturing town in the state, was very early projected. It 
was obviously important, after it was liuown that Lowell was rapidly increasing, and 
the manufacturing establishments greatly extending, that the mode of convey.mce, 
both for men and goods, should be facilitated as to time and expense. The passing of 
boats on the Middlesex canal, which extends almost the whole distance, is very slow ; 
usually not more than three miles an hour. The turnpike was, in most cases, a far 
better mode of conveyance. Railroads were then in operation in England, and highly 
approved as means of conveying passengers and goods to and from the manufacturing 
towns. 

" No town in New England has grown up so rapidly as Lowell. It is but about fif- 
teen years since the settlements began ; and it now contains seventeen thousand inhabit- 
ants. The capital employed in the manufacturing business is over seven and a half 
millions. In 1830, the travel between this place and Boston had become very great ; 
and during that year a company was incorporated for constructing a railroad ; and in 
1835, it was opened for travel. It is constructed in a strong and durable manner. It 
has an iron edge rail, resting on cast-iron chairs, on stone blocks, and a stone founda- 
tion. 

" The distance, from the north-west part of Boston, where the road begins, to Lowell, 
is twenty-five miles and one thousand feet. For a great distance it is nearly straight. 
The time usually occupied in the passage is one hour and fifteen minutes. There is a 
cut through a solid rock or ledge, of six hundred feet, which was made at the expense 
of forty thousand dollars. In the summer season, there are four trains of cars each 
way, every day in the week, excepting Sundays. The fare for a single passenger is 
one dollar ; and goods are transported at lar less expense than they can be in any other 
way. The first cost and additional expenses to the close of 1835 amounted to 1,500,000 
dollars ; and the receijits up to the same time, being the income for conveying people 
and goods, including moneys paid for assessments on shares, were Sl,3t)l,000 ; of which 
$45,000 was received of passengers and owners of property transported. It is propos- 
ed to have a double track on this railroad ; and a second has been commenced, the 
cost of which is estimated at $300,000. 

" The usual rate of travel has been already stated. The cars can he run in much 
less time, and have, in some instances, passed over the whole road in fifty-six minutes. 
The number of persons conveyed on this road during the present year is far greater 
than the last ; but the precise number we are unable to give. 

" It is intended to extend the road to Nashua, in New Hampshire, and thence to 
Concord in that state. A branch from South Andover, to unite with the Lowell road 
at Wilmington, a distance of seven miles and a half, has been opened this year; and 
it is proposed to continue it from Andover to Haverhill." — American Magazine, vol. iii. 
1837. 

The following account of the business done in Lowell is taken 
entire from the Statistical Tables, published by the state in 1837. 

" Cotton mills, 22 ; cotton spindles, 141,334; cotton consumed, 10,053,000 pounds ; 
cotton goods manufactured, 48,434,000 yards ; value of same, S5, 434,000 ; males em- 
ployed, 862 ; females, 5,685; capital invested, S6,167,000. Woollen mills, including 
1 carpet mill, 5 ; sets of woollen machinery, 42 ; wool consumed, 1,010,000 lbs. ; cloth 
manufactured, (including 147,000 yards carpeting and rugs,) 912,600 yards ; value of 
woollen goods manufactured, $1,070,000 ; males employed, 359; females, 461 ; capi- 
tal invested, $580,000; sperm oil used by manufacturers, 46,110 gallons; olive oil, 
15,000 gallons. Anthracite coal used by the cotton and woollen manufactories, 10,750 

55 



408 LOWELL. 

tons. Saxony sheep, 25; merino sheep, 25 ; Saxony wool produced, 75 lbs. ; merini* 
wool, 75 lbs. ; average weight of fleece, 3 lbs. ; value erf wool, $100 ; capital invested, 
^200. Boots manufaftured, 3,450 pairs ; shoes, 12,350 pairs ; value of boots and shoes, 
$27,250; males employed, 51 ; females, 19. Tinware manufactories, 3; value of 
tin ware, Sll, 000 ; hands employed, 10. Cotton baiting mills, 4; capital invested, 
$20,000 ; batting manufactured, 600,000 lbs. ; value of same, $75,000 ; males employed, 
30 ; females, 18. Printing and dyeing cotton goods, 3 mills ; capital invested, 8700,000; 
cotton goods dyed and prmted, 12,220,000 yards ; males employed, 450 ; females, 35 ; 
value of printing and dyeing, $550,000. Powder mills, 10 ; capital invested, $125,000; 
powder manufactured, 50,000 casks ; value of powder, $125,000 ; materials used, ,sah- 
petre, 1,000,000 lbs. ; brimstone, 150,000 lbs. ; hands employed, 50. Carriage and 
harness manufactories, 3 ; capital invested, $20,000 ; value of manufactures, $37,000 ; 
hands employed, 30. Flour mill, 1 ; hands employed, 8 ; capital invested, $20,000 ; 
60 barrels flour made per day, value not estimated. Card factory, 1 ; capital invested, 
$8,000 ; value of cards manufactured, $12,000 ; wire used in the manufactoiy, 5 
tons ; males employed, 4 ; females, 4. Reed factory, 1 ; capital employed, $2,000 ; 
value of manufacture, $6,000 ; wire used in the manufacture, 2 tons ; males employ 
ed, 2 Whip manufactory, 1 ; capital invested, $2,000 ; value of whips manufactured, 
$6,000 ; males employed, 4 ; females, 2. Brass and copper manufactory, ] ; capital 
invested, $2,500 ; value of manufactures, $20,000 ; hands employed, 10. Establish- 
ments for manufacture of cotton machinery, engines and cars for railroads, &cc., 3; 
capital invested, $500,000 ; value of manufactures, $300,000 ; wrought and cast iron 
used in the said manufactures, 1,200 tons; coal used, 400 tons ; oil used, 2,300 gallons ; 
hands employed, 500." 

The following respecting Lowell is extracted from M. Cheva- 
lier's work on the United States, recently published in Europe. 
This traveller visited Lowell in 1834. 

" Lowell is a town which dates its existence twelve years, with 14 or 15,000 inhabit- 
ants, including the adjoining Faubourg of Belvidere. Twelve years ago it was an 
uncultivated solitude, whose silence was broken only by the murm-ur of the little river, 
the Concord, and by the roar of the transparent waters of the Blerrimac over the 
ledges of granite which obstruct their passage. Now, here are immense buildings of 
five, six, seven stories each, surmounted with a small white citpola rising above the 
red brick work, and reflected on the neighboring hills which bound the horizon. Here 
are small square houses of wood painted white, with green blinds, very neat, and 
enclosed — well furnished with carpets, with trees about them, or brick houses, in the 
English fashion, that is to say, pretty, — plain without, and comfortable within. 

" On one side are shops, stores, fashionable .shops, (magazins de modes,) without 
number, for women abound in Lowell, large hotels after the American fashion, like 
barracks, — the only barracks at Lowell ; on the other hand are canals, water-wheels, 
cascades, bridges, foundries, banks, schools, bookstores, for there is much reading 
here ; reading is, in fine, their only amusement, and there are no less than seven news- 
papers. 

'•In every direction are churches of every sect, — Episcopal, Baptist, Congregational- 
ists, Methodist, Universalists, Unitarians, &cc.; there is also a Catholic chapel. Here 
are all the edifices of a flourishing city of the old world, with the exception of prisons, 
hospitals, and theatres. Here are the sounds of hammers, of shuttles, of bells, which 
call and dismiss the operatives ; here are stage coaches with six horses arriving 
and departing. Here is the noise of gunpowder, blowing up rocks to make a passage 
for the water or to level the ground ; here is the peaceful farm of a laborious popu- 
lation, all whose movements are as regular as clock-work, — a population not born at 
Lowell, and of which the half will die somewhere else, after having successively laid 
the foundation of three or four other cities ; for the American of pure blood has this 
in common with the Tartars, that he is encamped, not fixed, on the soil which he occu- 
pies. 

" Massachusetts and the neighboring states, composing New England, contain manu- 
facturing towns similar to Lowell, but no other has attained the same size. 

" Unlike the cities of Europe which were built by some demi-god, son of Jupiter, or 
by some hero of the siege of Troy, or by an inspiration of the genius of a Caesar or an 
Alexander, or by the assistance of some holy monk, attracting crowds by his miracles, 
or by the caprice of some great king, like Louis XIV. or Frederick, or by an edict of 
Peter the Great, it is neither a pious foundation, a refuge of the proscribed, nor a mili- 
tary post. It is a sptcidation of the merchants of Boston. The same spirit of enterprise, 



M A L D E N . 409 

which the last year suggested to them to send a cargo of ice to Calcutta, that Lord 
William Bentinck and the Nabobs of the India Company might drink their wine cool, 
has led them to build a city, wholly at their expense, with all the edifices required by an 
advanced civilization, for the purpose of manulacturing cotton cloths and printed cali- 
coes. They have succeeded, as they usually do in their speculations. The dividends 
<if the manufacturing companies of Lowell are usually 5 to 6 per cent, semi-annually. 

"Manufactures of cotton, which in America only date from the last war with Eng- 
land, are making rapid progress, notwithstanding the modification of the tarift", result- 
ing from the late demonstrations of South Carolina, has somewhat cooled the ardor 
for manulacturing. Boston, like Liverpool, seems destined to have her Lancashire 
about her. As waterfalls abound in New England, in conformity with the general 
law applicable to regions of granite, it will be a long time before it will be necessary 
to resort to steam-engines. 

" This portion of America is generally far from fertile. It required the perseverance, 
and even the obstinacy of the Puritans, to transport thither the charms of civilized life, 
ft is broken, mountainoHS, cold. It is the commencement of the chain of the Allega- 
nies, which runs towards the Gulf of Mexico, leaving the Atlantic coast. The inhabit- 
ants possess in the highest degree a genius for mechanics. They are patient, skilful, 
full of invention ; — they must succeed in manufactures. It is in fact already done, 
and Lowell is a little Manchester. More than 30,000 bales of cotton are consumed 
there, or one sixth of the whole consumption of the United States, beside wool, which 
is there manufactured into broadcloths, carpets, and cassimeres. To increase the 
resemblance between Liverpool and their city, the merchants of Boston have decided 
that there shall be a railroad from Boston to Lowell, the distance being ten leagues. 
They have not permitted this railroad to be constructed in the bold style and of the 
temporary character which are found in most of the American railroads. They wished 
a Roman work, and their engineers have given them one. They have made them a 
railroad certainly the mo,st .solid which exists in the world. They have only omitted 
the fine workmanship, the cut stone arches, the columns and monumental architecture, 
which make the Liverpool and Manchester railroad one of the wonders ©f modern 
times. These magnificent ornaments are of no importance. The railroad from Bos- 
ton to Lowell, in its Roman or Cyclopean simplicity, will cost 800,000 francs the 
league." 



MALDEN. 



Malden was originally a part of Charlestown. It was probably 
incorporated a distinct town about 1649. Some imcertainty exists 
respecting tlie exact time of the incorporation of some of the ancient 
towns in the state, from the fact that such acts cannot be fotmd in 
print. The records which remain are oftentimes quite laconic. 
The record respecting Maiden is thus expressed: "The Mistic 
north side men are incorporated into a town called Maiden." 
From this it appears that the boimds of the town were made to 
include all that part of Charlestown lying nortli of Mystic river. 
The precise period of erecting the first meeting-house is not known. 
It appears, however, that one existed in 1682, from the town order 
of that date, which provides " that the meeting house be repaired, 
to keep out the weather, and to save the sills from rotting." At 
this time, the town was in possession of a bell, which for many 
years was placed upon an elevated rock, termed Bell Rock. This 
custom of locating the town's bell upon an elevation near the 
meeting-house was quite a common usage among the early settlers. 

The first church gathered in the town was in 1648. In 1651, 
they called a minister to the pastoral office, without the consent of 
the neighboring churches, and without permis.sion from the legal 



410 



MA LDEN. 



authority; for this they were fined by the general court. Mr. 
Blackman and Mr. Thomas Cheever appear to have been the 
first ministers ; after these, Rev. Michael Wigglesworth was pastor, 
and was a popular minister in the times in which he lived, being 
cotemporary with the famous Cotton Mather. Mr. Wigglesworth, 
" when the weakness of his lungs disqualified him from preaching, 
would strive, with his pen, to render truth attractive, by invest- 
ing her with the garb of poetry." His '•'•Day of Doom'''' went 
through six editions in this country, and was republished in 
London. It comprises a version, after the manner of Sternhold 
and Hopkins, of all the scripture texts relative to the final judg- 
ment of man, and contains 224 stanzas of 8 lines each. He died 
in 1705, aged 74. 




Southern view of Maiden. 

The above is a view of the central part of Maiden, four and a 
half miles from Boston, taken at the southern entrance of the 
village on the Boston road. The village consists of about 40 
dwelling-houses, 4 churches, 1 Universalist, 1 Congregationalist, 
1 Methodist, and 1 Baptist. The church appearing on the right 
is the Congregational ; the Universalist church, the largest in the 
village, is seen in the distance on the left. Population of the town, 
2,303. In 1837, there were manufactured in this town 250 pairs 
of boots, 155,800 pairs of shoes, valued at S118;410 36; males 
employed, 214; females, 110. There were 5 establishments for 
curryiug leather; 28,500 sides of leather were curried, valued at 
$99,750. The value of tin ware manufactured was ,$31,000; 
hands employed, 20. One rolling and slitting mill, which manu- 
factured 550 tons of iron, valned at ,f 78,000. There was also a 
last, dye wood, twine and block tin manufactory. 

The following are extracted from the ancient records : 
1689. " Voted at a publick towne meeting, that no young trees 
under a foot over are to be felled for fire wood under a penalty of 
paying five shillings for every such tree." 



MARLBOROUGH. 411 

"The mark which Capt. John Hne doe put upon ye ears of those 
his cretures which he usnly eare markes — That is, ye top of ye 
near eare cut square of and a sht down in the same eare. Also a 
half peney cut out of ye under side of ye furder eare." 

1684. " At a meeting of ye selectmen for jf- regulation of Dis- 
order in ye meeting house on ye Lord's day, by boys and youths 
playing, it is ordered by ye selectmen that all householders and 
masters of families in this town shall take their turns successively, 
every Lord's day, below and in the galleries." * 

In 1702, "John Sprague was appointed school master for the 
year insuing, to learn children and youth to Read and Wright ; 
and to Refmetick, according to his best skill ; And he is to have 
£10 paid him by the town for his pains. The school is to be kept 
for all ye inhabitants of ye town, and to be kept at four several! 
places, at four severall times, one quarter of a year in a place," 



MARLBOROUGH. 

A TRACT of land, six miles square, was granted to a number of 
petitioners, inhabitants of Sudbury, in 16.56, which was incor- 
porated by the name of Marlborough, in May, 1660. Tlie Indian 
name of this place was Okommakamesit. The last distinguished 
leader of the tribe, who resided here, was Onomog. By the 
reason assigned in the petition for the land, it appears that the 
EngUsh settlement was begun about 16.54. The infant town was 
severely checked in its growth by the invasion of the savages. In 
Mr. Packard's account of the town (Mass. Hist. Coll., 4th vol.) it 
is stated, that, "on the Sabbath, when Mr. Brimsmead was in 
sermon, March 20, 1676, the worshipping assembly was suddenly 
dispersed by an outcry of 'Indians at the door.' The confusion 
of the first moment was instantly increased by a fire from the 
enemy ; but the God whom they were worshipping shielded their 
lives and limbs, excepting the arm of one Moses Newton, who 
was carrying an elderly and infirm woman to a place of safety. 
In a few minutes they were sheltered in their fort, with the mutual 
feelings peculiar to such a scene. . Their meeting-house, and many 
dwelling-houses, left without protection, were burnt. Fruit trees 
pilled and hacked, and other valuable effects rendered useless, 
perpetuated the barbarity of the savages, many years after the 

* "In 167.5 and 1677, the general court passed several laws, founded upon the system 
of Alfred the Great, designing thereby a better regulation of society, and a promotion 
of sound morals. These laws directed an appointment of tythingmen in each town, 
who were to have the inspection of 10 or 12 families, and to prosecute for all trans- 
gressions of the laws within their tythings or districts. Record is made of their 
appointment in this town as early as 1678. It was the duty of a tythingman to 
enforce the laws respecting the Sabbath, licensed houses, the n^e of spirituous liquors, 
and to see that no person was away from home after nine o'clock at night. How well 
they discharged the duties of their office, the unruly who fell within their grasp 
would probably be the best judges." — Wright's Historical Discourse, Dec. 1831. 



412 



M ARLBO ROUGH. 



inhabitants returned. The enemy retired soon after their first 
onset, aechning to risk the enterprise and martial prowess ot the 
young plantation. The new settlers, being much debilitated by 
their various losses, being a frontier town, and still exposed to the 
' adjudication ' of their savage neighbors, left their farms till the 
seat of war was further removed." 

Marlborough is one of the best agricultural towns in the county. 
Very little of what is called good land lies level, but is intersected 
in various directions by hills, declivities and valleys. The high 
lands are more moist, and less exposed to drought, than the inter- 
vals below them, and often retain their verdure in dry seasons 
when the valleys are parched. This place is 14 miles south-west 
of Concord, 16 east of Worcester, and 25 west of Boston. Popu- 
lation, 2,089. There are 4 churches : 1 Restorationist, 1 Ortho- 
dox, 1 Universalist, and 1 Methodist. 




South-eastern view of Marlborough. 

The above is a south-eastern view of some of the principal 
buildings in the central part of Marlborough. The most prominent 
building seen on the left is the Universalist church ; the Congre- 
gational church is the one seen in the distance, in the central part 
of the engraving. The West village is about one mile from this 
place, and contains a Restorationist church and an academy. 
Feltonville village, in this town, is about three miles north. In 
1837, there were manufactured in this town 103,000 pairs of 
shoes, valued at $41,200; there were 7,500 straw bonnets manu- 
factured, valued at $10,850. 

Mr. William Brimsmead appears to have been the first minister. 
He was ordained in 1666, and died in 1701. He hved unmarried, 
and, according to tradition, appears to have been possessed of some 
singularities, one of which was his refusing to baptize children 
who were born on the Sabbath. Rev. Robert Breck was ordained 
here in 1707. He was succeeded by Rev. Benjamin Hunt, who 



MEDFORD, 413 

was ordained in 1733j and dismissed in 1735. Rev. Aaron Smith 
was ordained in 1740. and dismissed in 1778. The next, the Rev. 
Asa Packard, was ordained in 17S5. 

The following is copied from a monument in the grave-yard in 
the central village : — 

Reliquias terrestres Theologi vere venerandi Robeeti Breck sub hoc tumulo con- 
servantur. Pars ccelestis ad coelum myriadum angelorum et ad spiritus justorum qui 
perfect! sunt, abiit. Ingenii penetrantis : Quoad vires naturales, vir fuit amplissirase 
mentis et judicii solidi una cum animi fortitudine singulari. Quod partes acquisitas 
spectat, in Unguis qua doctse pra?sertim audiunt admodum peritus : — literarum poli- 
tarum mensura parum coinmuni instructus ; et quod aliis fuit difficile, lUe virtute 
genii proprii et studiis coar . . . . s feliciter subegit. 

In omnibus Theologise partibus versatissimus, et vere orthodoxus scriba ad Regnum 
Ccelorum usquequaque institutus : officio pastorali in Ecclesia Marlburiensi, ubi Spi- 
ritus Sanctus ilium constituit Episcopum per xxvii. annos fideliter, sedulo, pacifice, 
multaque cum laude functus est. Doctringg Revelatse, una cum cultu et regimine in 
Ecclesiis Novanglicanis institutis, assertor habilis et strenuus. 

Ad consilia danda in rebus arduis turn publicis turn privatis, integritate conspicuus 
et prudentia instructissimus : — sincere dilexit amicos, patriam, et universam Christi 
ecclesiam. Denique, pietatis, omnis virtutis socialis, et quoad res terrenas, modera- 
minis, exemplar ; in doloribus asperis aegritudinis ultimas patienlia ejus opus perfec- 
tum habuit, et si non ovans, expectans tamen et placide discessit. 

Natns Decemb. 7, 1689. Denatus Januar. 6, 1731. 

Propheta? ipsi non in seculum vivunt. 

[Beneath this mound are preserved the earthly remains of that truly \'enerable 
theologian, Robert Bkeck. His celestial part has gone to the myriads of angels in 
heaven, and to the spirits of the just made perfect. He was of a discriminating 
genius ; and by nature a man of enlarged mind and sound judgment, united to un- 
common courage of spirit. As to his acquired parts, he was in the learned tongues 
exceedingly skilful, and he was furnished with no common measure of polite litera- 
ture. What to others was difficult, he easily mastered by the force of his genius 
and his close application. 

In every department of theology he was well versed, and a truly orthodox scribe, 
thoroughly instructed unto the kingdom of heaven. He peacefully discharged the 
duties of the pastoral office in the church at Marlborough, over which the Holy Ghost 
had made him Overseer, with diligence, fidelity, and great success for 27 years. Of 
Divine Revelation, and of the doctrines, institutions and principles of the Churches 
of New England, he was an able and strenuous advocate. 

In giving counsel, in matters both public and private, he was conspicuous for his 
integrity and wisdom. He sincerely loved his friends, his country, and the whole 
church of Christ. He was, in short, an exemplar of piety, of every social virtue, 
and of moderation in worldly desires. In the severe pangs of his last sickness, he 
finished his work in patience, and if not in triumph, yet in hope, he peacefully 
departed. 

Bom December 7, 1689. Died January 6, 1731. 

Even prophets do not live for ever.] 



MEDFORD. 

Medford is one of the oldest towns in Massachusetts, being 
incorporated in 1630. Gov. Dudley, in his letter of March 12th, 
1630, to the countess of Lincoln, speaking of the "dispertion" of 
the settlers who had just arrived from England, says, " some of 
us upon Mistic, which we named MeadfonV In Wood's New 
England Prospect^ printed in London in 1639, the author, in giv- 
ing an account of the various settlements, notices Mystic or Med- 



414 



M EDFO RD 



ford in the following manner : " The next town is Mistic, which 
is three miles from Charlestown by land, and a league and a half 
by water. It is seated by the water-side very pleasantly ; there 
are not many houses as yet. At the head of this river are great 
and spacious ponds, whither the alewives press to spawn. This 
being a noted place for that kind of fish, the English resort thither 
to take them. On the west side of this river the Governor hath a 
farm, where he keeps most of his cattle. On the east side is Mr. 
Cradock's plantation, where he hath impaled a park, where he 
keeps his cattle, till he can store it with deer : Here, likewise, he 
is at charges of building ships. The last year one was upon the 
stocks of an hundred tons ; that being finished, they are to build 
one twice her burthen. Ships without either ballast or loading 
may float down this river; otherwise the oyster-bank would 
hinder them, Avhich crosseth the channel." 




Southern view of Medford. 

Medford is a large and flourishing village, built principally on 
the north-eastern bank of Mystic river, which here, though quite 
a narrow stream, is of sufiicient depth to float to the ocean the 
numerous vessels which have been built in the place. There are 
in the village four churches, 2 Congregational, (one of which is 
Unitarian,) 1 Universalist, and 1 Methodist. The above engrav- 
ing shows the appearance of the village as it is entered from the 
south, upon the Boston road. The south part of the town is com- 
posed of rich marly soil, through which Mystic river winds its way 
to the ocean. The northern p'art of the town is broken and rocky. 
The Middlesex canal and the Lowell railroad pass to the Avestward 
of the village. Winter Hill, in this town, rises 124 feet above the 
level of the sea. It is noted in the history of the American Revo- 
lution as the place of the encampment of Gen. Burgoyne and 
his army after their capture. Population, 2,075. Distance, 14 
miles from Concord, 2 west of Maiden, and 5 miles from Boston 



N A T I C K . 415 

Joh7i Brooks, M. D., LL. D., and a governor of the common- 
wealth, was a native and resident of this town. In 1837, there 
were 239 hands employed in ship-building ; 60 vessels were built 
during the five preceding years, the tonnage of which was 24,195; 
valued at $1,112,970. One hat marmfactory ; 10,043 hats were 
manufactured, valued at $40,275 ; hat bodies manufactured, 
40,000, valued at $20,000. Bricks manufactured, 1,200,000, val- 
ued at $7,200. Linseed oil manufactured, 13,500 gallons, from 
7,300 bushels of seed ; value of oil, $14,850. 



NATICK. 



This township was originally granted by the general court to the 
Indians, as a place for a permanent residence. It was incorpo- 
rated into an English district in 1761, and into a town in 1781, by 
the name of Natick, a word in the Indian language, signifying 
'^ the 2>lace of hills." It is watered by Charles river, and contains 
numerous fish-ponds. There are two villages, which are upwards 
of a mile apart. North Natick is a village newly erected ; it con- 
sists of about 30 houses, two churches, 1 Congregational, and 1 
Methodist. The Boston and Worcester railroad passes through 
this village. South Natick is the ancient village ; it consists of 
about 20 dwelling-houses and a Unitarian church. Population, 
1,221. Distance from Concord, 12 miles, 9 from Dedham, and 16 
from Boston. In 1837, there were 250,650 pairs of shoes manu- 
factured here, valued at $213,052 50; males employed, 263; 
females, 189. 

The first Indian church in New England was formed here, fn 
1660. The Indians were first brought together, by Mr. Eliot, at 
Nonantum, (in Newton) but not finding sufficient acconamoda- 
tion, they removed to Natick in 1651. Here they built a town on 
the banks of Charles river, " which consisted of three long streets; 
two on the Boston side of the river, and one on the other. To 
each house was attached a piece of ground. Most of the houses 
were built after the Indian fashion. One large house was erected 
in the English style, the lower apartment of which was employed 
as a school-room in the week, and as a place of worship on the 

Lord's day ; there was likewise a large handsome fort, of a 

circular figure, palisadoed with trees ; and a foot-bridge over the 
river, the foundation of which was secured with stone ; with 
several little houses after the Enghsh fashion." According to the 
advice of Mr. Eliot, they adopted the form of government pro- 
posed by Jethro to Moses. About 100 of them met together, and 
chose one ruler of a hundred, two rulers of fifties, and"^ ten rulers 
of tens. After their church was formed, they flourished under a 
succession of pious teachers, natives and English, until, by repeat- 
ed wasting sickness and other causes so fatal to the race, they 
have now become nearly if not quite extinct. The following 

56 



416 NATICK. 

account of Natick, &c., is from the Memoirs of Eliot, by the ReY. 
Martin Moore, of Natick. 

" It lieth upon Charles river, eighteen miles south-west from Boston, and ten miles 
north-west from Dedham. It hath twenty-nine families, which, computing five persons 
to a family, amount to one hundred and forty-five persons. The towTi contains about 
six thousand acres. The soil is good and well watered, njid produceth plenty of grain 
and fruit. The land was granted to the Indians at the motion of Mr. Eliot, by the 
general court of Massachusetts : and in the year 1651, a number of them combined 
together and formed a town, which is the place of the greatest name among Indians, 
and where their principal courts are held. * * * # 

" In this towTi was the first church of Indians embodied, in the year 1660. Unto 
this church some pious Indians of other places, both men and women, are since joined. 
The number of men and women in full communion with this church were, in 1670, 
between forty and fifty. 

" We are to consider, that all those we call praying Indians are not all visible 
church members, or baptized persons ; which ordinance of baptism is not to be ad- 
ministered unto any that are out of the visible church, until they profess their faith in 
Christ and obedience to him, but the infants of such as are members of the visible 
church are to be baptized. Here, I shall take the liberty, though it be a digression, 
to relate a story of remark concerning a child at Natick, a youth of about eleven 
years of age, who was of a sober and grave carriage, and an attentive hearer of the 
word, considering his age and capacity, but he had a weak body and was consump- 
tive. This child hearing Mr. Eliot preach upon a time at Natick when the ordinance 
of baptism was to be administered unto some children, whose parents had made pro- 
fession of their faith and were joined to the church : upon which occasion Mr. Eliot 
said, that baptism was Christ's mark, which he ordered to be set upon his lambs, and 
that it was a manifest token of Christ's love to the offspring of his people to set this 
mark upon them. This child taking special notice of this passage, did often solicit his 
father and mother, that one or both of them would endeavour to join to the church, that 
he might be marked for one of Christ's lambs before he died. The parents, who were 
well inclined, especially the mother, and being also very affectionate to their child, as 
the Indians generally are, did seriously ponder the child's reiterated intreaties ; and 
not long after, first the mother, and then the father of the child, joined to the church. 
Soon after the lad was baptized ; in which he did greatly rejoice and triumph, that he 
was now marked for one of Christ's lambs. ' Now,' said he to his father and mother, ' I 
am willing to die ;' which shortly after came to pass ; and I doubt not, but as the child 
had Christ's name set upon him in baptism and by faith, so his immortal soul is now 
in glory, rejoicing in communioji with Christ. 

" There are many Indians that live among those that have subjected themselves to 
the gospel, that are catechised ; who attend public worship, read the scriptures, pray 
in their families morning and evening, who have not yet attached themselves to the 
visible church. The manner practised by these Indians in the worship of God is thus. 
Upon the Lord's days, fast-days, and lecture-days, the people assemble together at the 
sound of a drum, (for bells they yet hare not) twice a day, in the morning and after- 
noon, on the Lord's days, but only once upon lecture-days, when one of their teachers 
begins with a solemn and affectionate prayer. In these acts of worship, for I have 
often been present with them, they demean themselves visibly with reverence, atten- 
tion, modesty and solemnity ; the men-kind sitting by themselves, and the women-kind 
by themselves, according to their age, quality and degree, in comely manner. And 
for my own part, I have no doubt, but am fully satisfied, according to the judgment of 
charity, that divers of them do fear God and are true believers ; but yet I will not 
deny but there may be some of them hypocrites, that profess religion, and yet are 
not sound-hearted. But things that are secret belong to God ; and things that are re- 
vealed, unto us and our children. 

" Their teachers are generally chosen from among themselves, except some few 
English teachers of the most pious and able men among them. Mr. Eliot hath of 
late years fallen into a practice among the Indians, the better to prepare and furnish 
them with abilities to explicate and apply the scriptures, by setting up a lecture among 
them in logic and theology, once every fortnight all the summer, at Natick : whereat 
he is present and ready, and reads and explains to them the principles of those arts. 
And God hath been pleased graciously so to bless these means, that several of them, 
especially young men of acute parts, have gained much knowledge, and are able to 
speak methodically and profitably unto any plain text of scripture, yea, as well as 
you can imagine such little means of learning can advantage them unto. From 



N A TICK. 417 

this church and town of Natick hath issued forth, as from a seminary of virtue and 
piety, divers teachers that are employed in several new praying towTis. 

'• In this towTi they have residing some of their principal rulers, the chief whereof 
is named Waban, who is now above seventy years of age. He is a person of great 
prudence and piety. I do not know any Indian that excels him. Other rulers there 
are living there, as Nattous and Piam, Boohan and others. These are good men and 
prudent, but inferior to the first. The teachers of this town are Anthony and John 
Speen, who are grave and pious men. They have two constables belonging to this 
place, chosen yearly; and there is a marshal-general belonging to all the praying 
Indian towns, called Captain Josiah, or Pennahanit. He doth attend the chief courts 
kept here, but he dwells at another place, Nashobah." 

Mr. Eliot translated the whole Bible into the Natick (or Nip- 
mnc) dialect. This Bible was printed at Cambridge, in 1663, 
and is the first Bible printed in America. A second edition was 
printed in 1685, in the correction of which Mr. Eliot received 
great assistance from Mr. John Cotton.* The following is the 
title-page : " Mamusse Wunneetupanatamwe Up Biblum God, 
Naneeswe Nukkone Testament Kah Wonk Wusku Testament." 

The following is the Lord's Prayer, in the Indian tongue, con- 
tained in the above work. 

Our father heaven in hallowed thy name come thy kingdom 

Nushun kesukqut ; Qtittianatamunach ktowesuonk ; Feyaumuutch kukketassutamoonk; 

thy will done earth on as heaven in our food daily 

KuttenantamoonJc nen nach ohkeit neane kesukqut; Niimmeetsuongash asekesukokish 

give us ^his this day and forgive us our sins as 

asamaiinean yeuyeu kesukod ; Kah ahquontamawwer.n iiummatcheseongash neane 

wicked-doers we forgive them Also lead us not 

matchenekuk quengig nutahquontamounnonog ; Ahque sagkompagunaiinnean en 

temptation in Oh deliver us evil from for thine 

qutchhuaonganit ; Wehe pohquohmussinnean rvutch match itut ; Nemutche kutahtaun 

kingdom and power and glory forever Amen. 

ketassutamoonk kah mmuhkesuoiik kah sohsumoonk viicheme Amen. 

The following is copied from a monument in the grave-yard 
near the Unitarian church in South Natick. 

Hie deposits' sunt reliquiae domini reverendi Oliveri Peabody, viri, propter mentis 
facultates et Literatuvam necessarian! maxima veneratione digni. Specuiationes the- 
ologicas optima delegit. In officio pastorali conspicue effulsii, per annos triginta, 
Populo apud Natick niinistra\it prgpcipne aboriginum eruditionis in religione Christi- 
ana causa. In vita sociali quoqne fuit exemplar. Benevolentia Integra et hospitali- 
tate catholica maxime antecessit. Retributionem futuram certis.sime expectans, 
ministerium reliquit, die Februarii 2do, A. D. 1752, setatis 51. 

[Here are deposited the remains of the reverend Oliver Peabody, a man venerable 
for the faculties of his mind and for all needful learning. He delighted much in 
theological investigations. He discharged the pastoral office with great renown for 
thirty years ; ministering to the people of Natick, especially to the aborigines, in the 

* " It is related that while Mr. Eliot was engaged in translating the Bible into the 
Indian language, he came to the following passage in Judges v. 28 : ' The mother of 
Sisera looked out at the window, and cried through the lattice,' &cc. Not knowing an 
Indian word to signify lattice, he applied to several of the natives, and endeavored to 
describe to them what a lattice resembled. He described it as frame-work, netting, 
wicker, or whatever occurred to him as illustrative ; when they gave him a long, bar- 
barous and unpronounceable word, as are most of the words in their language. Some 
years after, when he had learned their dialect more correctly, he is said to have 
laughed outright upon finding that the Indians had given him the true term for 
eelpot. 'The mother of Sisera looked out at the -window, and cried through the 
eelpotJ " 



418 



NKWTON. 



cause of sacred learning. He was a model in social life. In benevolence and nni- 
versal hospitality he was pre-eminent. In the firm expectation of a future retribution, 
he was called from his ministry on the 2d of February, A. D. 1752, aged 54 years.} 



NEWTON. 

The exact period of the commencement of the settlement of 
Newton is unknown. It was originally a part of Cambridge, and 
was styled Cambridge Village, or New Cambridge. It was incor- 
porated in 1691. This is a beautiful agricultural and manufactur- 
ing town, the Nonaniinji of the Indians. It is 1.2 miles S. E. of 
Concord, 7 N. of Dedham, and 7 miles west from Boston. Popu- 
lation, 3,037. There are five churches, 2 Congregational, 2 Bap- 




Theological Seminary at Newton. 

tist, and 1 Episcopal. The Neivton Theological Seminary^ under the 
patronage of the Baptist denomination, was founded in this place 
in 1825, and was incorporated by the legislature the next year. In 
1828 a brick building, three stories in height, besides a basement 
story, 85 feet long and 49 wide, was erected, at an expense of about 
$10,000. Three convenient houses have been since erected for the 
professors. In tlie mansion-house are accommodations for the stew- 
ard's family, a dining hall, a chapel, and recitation rooms. The 
regular course of study occupies three years. There are two vaca- 
tions of six weeks each ; one from the last Wednesday but one in 
August, the other from the last Wednesday in March. The semi- 
nary is about seven miles from Boston, in a very healthy position, 
being beautifully situated on an elevated hill, which commands an 
extensive prospect of Boston, and of the rich country around. In 
the central part of the town there are many elegant country resi- 
dences. 

Newton lies in a bend of Charles river, which forms its bound- 
ary on three sides, and, by two falls of considerable extent, affords 



NEWTON. 41 9 

an extensive water power. There are two manufacturing villages 
at these falls. The Upper Falls village is 9 miles from Boston and 
7 from Dedham ; it consists of about 70 dwelling-houses, 2 churches, 
1 Methodist and 1 Baptist, a nail factory, rolling mill, and a ma- 
chine shop, where 100 hands have been employed. At this place the 
water descends 35 feet in the distance of half a mile, and at one 
place pitches over a ledge of rocks 20 feet high. The village, which 
is well built, is irregularly situated on a rocky elevation which rises 
with some abruptness from the bed of the river. The Lower Falls 
village is 11 miles from Boston, and about 2 miles N. W. from the 
Upper Falls village. A part of this village is within the bounds 
of Needham ; it consists of about 50 dwelling-houses, an Episco- 
pal church, and 10 paper-mills. The Boston and Worcester rail- 
road passes to the north of this village. 

In 1837, there were 2 cotton mills, 5,710 spindles; 962,300 yards 
of cotton goods were manufactured, valued at $134,722 ; males 
employed, 53 ; females, 240 ; one woollen mill, 5 sets of woollen 
machinery; 100,000 yards of cloth were manufactured, valued at 
$100,000; five paper-mills; stock manufactured, 975 tons; value 
of paper manufactured, $197,000 ; males employed, 53 ; females, 
30 ; one nail manufactory ; nails manufactured, 700 tons, valued 
at $84,700 ; hands employed, 20 ; capital invested, $40,000 ; one 
manufactory of chairs and cabinet ware ; value of articles manu- 
factured, $54.000 ; sixty males and six females employed ; one 
rolling mill ; 950 tons of iron rolled, valued at $76,000. Value of 
soap and candles manufactured, $22,500; vitriol, 1,800,000 lbs., 
valued at $50,000 ; barilla, 130 tons, valued at $4,550 ; value of 
machinery manufactured, $70,000; cost of materials, $35,000; 
capital invested, $120,000. 

No7ia7itu}7i was " the first civilized and Christian settlement of 
Indians within the English colonies of North America." Mr. Goo- 
kin, who formerly accompanied Mr. Eliot in his journeys, says 
" the first place he began to preach at was INonantum, near Water- 
town, upon the south side of Charles river, about four or five miles 
from his own house ; where lived at that time Waban, one of their 
principal men, and some Indians with him." Mr. Eliot set out 
upon his mission in Oct., 1646, and sent forerunners to apprize the 
Indians of his intentions. Waban, a grave and wise man, of the 
same age of the missionary, forty-two, a person of influence, met 
him at a small distance from their settlement, and welcomed him 
to a large wigwam on the hill Nonantum. A considerable number 
of his countrymen assembled here from the neighborhood to hear 
the new doctrine. 

"After a short prayer in English, Mr. Eliot delivered a sermon (the first probably 
ever preached in this part of the old town) from Ezek. chap, xxxvii. ver. 9, 10 : 'Then 
said he unto me, Prophesy unto the rvind, (to which the Indian term Waban is said to 
answer) prophesy, son of man, and say to the wind, (saij to Waban,) Thus saith the 
Lord God, Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, 
that they may live. So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into 
them, and they lived and stood upon their feet, an exceeding great army.' This ser- 
mon employed an hour. The preacher began with the principles of natural religion 
acknowledged by themselves, and then proceeded to the leading doctrines and precepts 



420 NEWTON. 

of Christianity. He repeated and explained the ten commandments. He Informed 
them of the dreadful curse attending the violation of the divine law. He then spoki; 
to them of the person of Jesus Christ, of the place of his present residence and exal- 
tation, and of his coming to judge the world in flaming fire. He taught them the 
blessed state of all those who know and savingly believe in Christ. He related the 
creation and fall of man ; and spoke of the inhnite greatness of God, of the joys of 
heaven, and the punishment of hell ; finally persuading them to repentance and a good 
life. Having closed his sermon, he was desirous of knowing whether he had conveyed 
his sentiments intelligibly, in a language so new to himself. He therefore inquired 
whether they comprehended his meaning ; to which their unanimous reply was, 'We 
understood all.' Mr. Eliot and his friends then devoted about three hours to familiar 
and friendly conference with them, to hear and answer questions which naturally were 
suggested by the discourse. This first visit was received with cordial and general 
satisfaction. Many of his audience listened to the pathetic parts of the discourse with 
tears ; Waban, particularly, received those happy impressions which abode by him 
through hfe, and qualified him zealously and successfully to aid the generous design 
of converting his countrymen. 

" A still larger number attended the next visit of the apostolic Eliot to Nonantum, 
Nov. 11. He began first with the children, whom he taught these three questions, 
and their answers. Q. 1. Who made you and all the world * A.God. Q. 2. Whom 
do you expect to save you from sin and hell ? A* Jesus Christ. Q. 3. How many 
commandments hath God given you to keep ? A. Ten. He then preached about an 
hour to the whole company concerning the nature of God, and the necessity of faith in 
Jesus Christ for procuring his favor. He informed them what Jesus Christ had done 
and sulfered for the salvation of sinners, and the dreadful judgments attendant upon 
the rejection of him and his salvation. The whole company appeared very serious. 
Liberty being given to ask questions for further information, an aged man stood up, 
and with tears inquired whether it was not too late for such an old man as he, who 
was near death, to repent and seek after God. Another asked how the English came 
to differ so much from the Indians in their knowledge of God and Jesus Christ, since 
they had all at first but one father. Another inquired how it came to pass that sea- 
water was salt and river-water fresh. Another, that if the water was higher than the 
earth, (as he supposed,) how it comes to pass that it does not overflow all the earth. 
Mr. Eliot and his friends spent several hours in answering these and some other ques- 
tions. The Indians told them, upon their quitting them to return home in the evening, 
that ' they did much thank God for their coming ; and for what they had heard, they 
were wonderful things.' 

" At the third meeting, of Nov. 26, some of the Indians absented themselves through 
fear of their powavvs or priests, who had threatened them with their secret power of 
inflicting the penalty of death upon those who should attend. One of these powaws 
was, however, immediately and solemnly addressed by the intrepid missionary, who 
silenced and convinced him. 

" Two or three days after this meeting, at which the audience appeared very serious, 
Wampas, a sage Indian, with two of his companions, came to the English, and desired 
to be admitted into some of their families. He brought his son and two or three other 
Indian children with him, begging that they might be educated in the christian faith. 
His request was granted." 

A school was soon established among them, and the general 
court gave the neighboring Indians a tract of highland, called No- 
nantum, and furnished them with various implements of husbandry. 
The Indians many of them professed' Christianity, and the whole 
in the vicinity became settled, and conducted their atfairs with 
prudence and industry. They erected a house of worship for 
themselves ; they adopted the customs of their English neighbors, 
made laws, and had magistrates of their own. The increase of 
the Indian converts was such, that they found the place too strait 
for them, and there was a removal of the tribe to Natick, about 10 
miles S. W. of Nonantum. 

The records of the first church in this town were destroyed in 
Ihe conflagration of the Rev. Mr. Merriam's house, in 1770. From 



NEWTON. 421 

Other sources it appears that the first regular church gathered here 
was on July 20, 1664, and the first minister was Rev. John Eliot, 
Jr., son of the apostolic missionary of that name. He died, exceed- 
ingly lamented, in 1668, in the 33d year of his age. Rev. Nehe- 
miah Hobart was ordained his successor, Dec. 23, 1674. His 
character it is said may be collected from the following inscription 
placed on his tomb-stone : 

Hoc tumulo depositse sunt leliquias reverend! et perdocti D. D. NEHEwiiE Hobart, 
Collegii Harvardini socij lectissirai, ecclesise Neotoniensis per annos quadraginta pas- 
toris fidelissimi et vigilantissimi, singulari gravitate, hiimilitate seque ac pietate et 
doctrina — a doctis et pijs eximiaveneratione et amore recolendi. Natus erat Nov. 21, 
1648. Denatus Aug. 25, 1712, anno setatis 64. 

[In this tomb are deposited the remains of the reverend and very learned teacher of 
divinity, Nehemiah Hobart, an estimable fellow of Harvard College, a highly faithful 
and watchful pastor of the church of Newton for forty years. His singular gravity, 
humility, piety, and learning, rendered him the object of deep veneration and ardent 
esteem to men of science and religion. He was born Nov. 21, 1648, and died Aug. 
25, 1712, in the 64th year of his age.] 

Mr. Hobart was succeeded by Rev. John Cotton, who was or- 
dained in 1714, and died in 1757. The following is the inscription 
on his montiment: 

Hie depositum mori quod potuit reverendi vereque venerandi Johannis Cottoni, 
ecclesiae Newtoniensis fidelissimi, prudentissimi, doctissimique nuper pastoris, concio- 
nandi tam precandi facultate celeberrimi, pietate spectatissimi, moribus sanctissimis 
undequaque et suavissime ab omnibus bene meriti, deploratique auditoribus prsecipue, 
quibus vel mortuus concionari non desinit. Fama longe lateque vocalius et diutiu.s 
marmore duratissimo, nomen perdulce proclamabit. Morbo non senecta fractus, e 
vita decessit, Maii 17, A. D. 1757, a'tatis suoe 64, officii ministralis 43. 

[Here lies the mortal part of the Kev. and truly venerable John Cotton, lately the 
very faithful, prudent and skilful pastor of the church of Newton. He was eminent 
for the faculty of praying and preaching, was respected for his piety, and held in high 
and universal esteem for his pure and attractive virtues. His loss is especially deplored 
by his tlock, to whom even dead he ceases not to preach. Fame shall spread his en- 
dearing name more loudly, extensively, and permanently than the most durable mar- 
ble. Broken by disease, not by the infirmities of age, he departed this life May 17, 
A. D. 1757, in the 64th year of liis age, and the 43d of his ministry.] 

Rev. Jonas Merriam succeeded Mr. Cotton, in 1758 ; he died in 
1780, and his remains were conveyed to a family tomb in Boston. 
In 1780, a Baptist church was gathered in Newton, and Rev. 
Caleb Blood was pastor seven years ; he was succeeded by Rev. 
Mr, Grafton. Mr. Grafton died in December, 1836. Measures are 
taking to erect a monument to his memory. 

Captain Thomas Prentice, the partizan commander of horse so 
distinguished in King Philip's war. was of this town ; he died in 
1709, at the age of 89, in consequence of a fall from his horse. 
The following lines on tlie foot-stone of his grave have been de- 
ciphered : 

" He that's here interr'd needs no versifying, 
A virtuous life mil keep the name from dying; 
He'll live, though poets cease their scribbling rhym 
AVhen that this stone shall mouldefd be by time." 

Kev. John Elliot, A. M., son of the apostolic Elliot, assistant Indian missionary. 
First pastor of the First Church, ordained on the day of its gathering, July 20, (Aug. 
1, N. S.) 1664, eight years after the forming of a Society distinct from Cambridge, 
died Oct. Uth, 1668, M . XXXIII. Learned, Pious and beloved by English and Indians, 



423 PEPPERELL. 

" My dying counsel is, secure an interest in the Lord Jesus Christ, and this will cany 
you safely to the world's end." As a preacher, lively, accomplished, zealous, and 
Heaven received his ascending Spirit, "155 years since." — Erected by the town, 
823. 



PEPPERELL 



This town was incorporated in 1753. This town, with several 
others in the vicinity, some in Massachusetts and some in New 
Hampshire, were once inchided within the ancient hmits of the 
town of Dunstable. The river Nashua forms the eastern boundary 
of the town, dividing it from Groton and the present town of 
Dunstable. The land bordering on the river is level, and the soil 
is good ; the land at a distance from the river is uneven. On 
Nisitissit river there are several mills for various purposes, and 
the Nashua itself has several falls in its course along the border 
of the town, affording many valuable water privileges. 

In the central part of the town there is a village, containing two 
Congregational churches, one of which is Unitarian, and an Insane 
Asylum, by Dr. Cutter. Population, 1,586. Distance, 17 miles 
from Concord, and 33 from Boston. In 1837, there were manu- 
factured 100 pairs of boots and 30,000 pairs of shoes, valued 
at $25,000; males employed 30; females, 15. There were 3 
paper-mills ; 550 tons of stock were manufactured ; value of paper, 
$50,000 ; fifty hands (20 males, 30 females) were employed ; 
40,000 palm-leaf hats were manufactured, valued at $5,000. Maj. 
General Prescott, one of the commanders at the memorable battle 
of Bunker Hill, was a native of this town. 



READING. 

The town of Reading was incorporated in 1644. It is believed 
that the name of this town ought to have been applied to the town 
of South Reading, as the first settlement of the ancient Reading 
appears to have been made within the present village of South 
Reading. This town Avas set off as a distinct precinct in 1769. 
There is much good land in this town, though some portions of it 
are uneven and hard of cultivation. The principal village in the 
town consists of about 30 dwelling-houses, handsomely built, and 
a number of stores, having a business-like appearance. There 
are two Congregational churches, one of which is Unitarian ; in 
the northern part of the township there is another Congregational 
and a Baptist church. Population, 2,144. Distance, 17 miles 
from Concord, 10 west from Salem, and 13 from Boston. In 1837 
there were manufactured in this town 707 pairs of boots and 
290,511 pairs of shoes, valued at $184,583; there were employed 
in this business 338 males and 494 females. There were eight 
manufactories of chairs and cabinet ware j the value of chairs and 



SHERBURNE. 423 

cabinet ware manufactured was $91,360; one hundred hands 
were employed. 

The following inscriptions are copied from monuments in the 
grave-yard of the principal village : 

Sacred to the memory of the Kev. Thomas Haven, the first Pastor of the 3d church 
in Reading, who quitted this scene of mortaUty May 7th, 1782, in ye 39 year of his 
age, and 12th of his ministry. Stript of its earthly dress, a genius unfettered by 
bigotry, improved by study, sanctified hy religion, ennobled by an evangelic temper, 
enlarged by the most diffusive benevolence, has taken its flight to its native country. 
Beloved and esteemed as a most worthy character, whose excellent and acquired abili- 
ties and eminent moral endowments afforded the most flattering hopes of great and 
growing usefulness, his exit at such an early period is sincerely lamented by all his 
acquaintance, and most especially a most sorrowful event to the people of nis charge. 
According to common reckoning by days, months and years, his death was premature ; 
but computing human life by the advances made in knowledge, wisdom., piety and, 
virtue, he lived to a good old age. 



In affectionate remembrance of James Bancroft, Esq. Venerated and beloved while 
living, his memory is blessed. Guided by Christian principle, he was enabled, through 
a long and useful life, to perform its various duties with fidelity. A defender of his 
country in her struggle for independence, he was magnanimous and devoted in the 
discharge of numerous civil offices, disinterested and faithful ; and a Deacon in the 
first church in the place during forty-six years, distinguished hy integrity, consistency 
and independence. In private Ufe he was endeared by mildness and benignity, and 
ever evinced obedience to the first command by an observance of the second " like 
unto it." He has gathered to his fathers, " as a shock of corn in its season," May 17, 
1831 ; ML 92. 



SHERBURNE 



This town was incorporated in 1674. It is separated from Dover 
and Medfield by Charles river. The township is on an elevated 
site, with a good soil. In the central part of the town there is a 
village, having two Congregational churches, one of which is 
Unitarian. Population, 1,037. Distance, 15 miles from Concord, 
10 from Dedham, and 18 from Boston. In 1837, there were 40 
pairs of boots and 48,000 pairs of shoes manufactured, valued at 
$40,000 ; sixty males and thirty females were employed ; 2,000 
straw bonnets were manufactured, valued at $4,000. There was 
an axe, plough and fork manufactory. The value of whips manu- 
factured was $.5,325 ; capital invested, $1,325 ; twenty-one hands 
were employed, seven of whom were females. Value of muskets 
manufactured, $1,600. 



SHIRLEY 



This town was incorporated in 1753. This town is well 
watered, and a large proportion of the township consists of low 
lands, and its pastures are not considered so good as those of 
more hilly towns. In the central part of the town are two Con- 
gregational churches, one of which is Unitarian. The largest 

57 



424 



SOUTH READING. 



village in the town is in the southern part, near a stream which 
empties into Nashua river. There is a Universalist church in 
the village. A society of Shakers live on the southern borders of 
the town, and their lands extend into Lancaster, in Worcester 
county. The society consists of from 150 to 200 persons, and 
are distinguished for their neatnes-s, industry, and the raising of 
garden seeds, &c. In 1837, there were 3 cotton mills, 2,568 spin- 
dles ; 474,364 yards of cotton goods were manufactured, valued at 
$52,100; males employed, 19; females, 39; one woollen mill; 
20,000 yards of cloth were manufactured, valued at $12,000; 
two paper-mills ; 300 tons of stock manufactured ; value of paper, 
$20,000; twenty hands (10 males, 10 females) employed; 70,000 
palm-leaf hats were manufactured, valued at $12,333. Popula- 
tion, 967. Distance, 16 miles from Concord, 18 from Lowell, and 
32 from Boston. 



SOUTH READING. 

The settlement of this place, now called South Reading, was 
first commenced by emigrants from Lynn. x\s early as the year 
1639, a grant of land was made by the general court to the 
town of Lynn, as appears from the following extract from the 
records of the court: "Sept. 7, 1639. The petition of the inhabit- 
ants of Lynn for a place for an inland plantation at the head of 
their bounds is granted them of four miles square." After this 
grant, certain persons from Lynn and other places immediately 
commenced the settlement of the place ; indeed, some had taken 
possession of certain spots of territory, and perhaps had removed 
hither, in 1638, the year before the grant. The settlement that 
commenced was called Lynn Village, being a part of the town of 
Lynn. The land was also purchased of the Indians for £10 16s., 
and the deeds signed, in 1640, by Sagamore George, his sister 
Abigail, and Quanapowitt. Lynn village was incorporated by the 
name of Reading about this time, being about five years since its 
first settlement. The following are the names of the first settlers, 
viz : 



Nicholas Brown, 
Boniface Burton, 
John Bacheller, 
Goodman Barker, 
Goodman Blots, 
Isaac Barnup, 
Wm. Cowdrey, 
Thomas Clark, 
Josiah Dustin, 
Thomas Dunton, 
Samuel Dunton, 
Richard Walker, 



Geo. Davis, 
Wm. Eaton, 
Jonas Eaton, 
Zachariah Fitch, 
Benjamin Fitch, 
Henry Feltch, 
Jeremiah Fitch, 
John Fuller, 
Goodman Gould, 
Thomas Hutchinson, 
Wm. Hooper, 
Samuel Walker, 



Thomas Hartshorn, 
Thomas Kendall, 
Goodman Knight, 
Wm. Marlin, 
Thomas Marshall, 
John Poole, 
Thomas Parker, 
John Person, 
Jeremiah Swaine, 
Richard Sader, 
Edward Taylor. 



SOUTH READING. 425 

The first Congregational church in this town (being the 12th in 
t\\e colony) was gathered in 1645, and Rev. Henry Green was 
ordained its first minister. Mr, Green died in 1648, and was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Samuel Haugh, in 16.50. 

Johnson, in his "Wonder Working Providence of Zion's Saviour in New England," 
published about this time, says : " Reading is well watered, and situate about a great 
pond ; besides, it hath two mills, the one a saw mill, the other a corn mill, which 
stand on two several streams. It hath not been so fruitful for children as her sister 
Woburn hath ; her habitation is fuller in the ver}'^ centre of the country ; they are 
well stocked with cattle, for the number of people. They have gathered into a church 
and ordained a pastor from among themselves, at the same time a young man of good 
abilities to preach the word, and of a very humhle behaviour, named Mr. Green. He, 
having finished his course, departed this Ufe not long after, whose labors are with the 
Lord : after him succeeded in the place one Mr. Hagh, a young man, one of the first 
fruits of New England, a man studious to promote the truths of Christ. — They are 
both remembered in the following verse, written by Johnson : 
" On earth's bed thou at noon hast laid thy head, 

You that for Christ ("as Green) here toiled have taken ; 

When nature fails, tnen rest it in earth's dead, 

Till Christ by 's word with glory thee awaken ; 

Young Hagh, thou must be second to this man 

In field encounter, with Christ foes shall thou 

Stand up and take his bright sword in thy hand, 

Error cut down, and make stout storaacks bow. 

Green's gone before, thy warfare's now begun, 

And last it may to see Rome's Babel fall ; 

By weakest means Christ's mighty works hath done, 

Keep footing fast till Christ thee hence do call." 

The township of South Reading comprises a tract of 4,200 acres, 
and is about equidistant from Boston, Cambridge, and Andover, 
being about ten miles from each. It was originally the first parish 
in Reading. It was incorporated as a distinct town in 1812. 
About this period there was quite a political excitement in Read- 
ing, as well as in many other places ; the inhabitants of the south 
parish, being mostly on the Democratic side, were left in the 
minority of the town. Feehng themselves aggrieved by their 
townsmen who were on the Federal side, they petitioned the 
legislature for an act to incorporate them into a distinct town, 
which was accordingly granted. 

The following shows the appearance of the central part of South 
Reading, as it is seen while descending the hill a little west of the 
village. On the left is seen the southern extremity of Reading 
Pond or lake, near which is the Congregational church; the spire 
of the Baptist church is seen further to the south. South of the 
Congregational church extends a handsome green, called the " com- 
mon," containing about 8 or 10 acres. The different parts of the 
town, when spoken of in reference to the residence of the people, 
are designated by the following terms : — "The Common," "Fitch's 
Hill," "Leather Street," "Side the Pond," " Cowdrey's Hill." 
" Lafayette Street," " Eaton Street," " Water Street," " Little 
World," "Westward," " East Ward," and " South Ward." 

The village called the "Common" contains about twenty 
dwelling-houses, the two clnirches represented in the engraving, 
a number oi mercantile stores and mechanic shops, and a large 



426 



SOUTH READING. 




Western view of the central part of South Reading. 



hotel. This is the most thickly settled part of the town. That part 

called " Fitch's Hill" extends eastward of the north part of the 
Common, on the Salem road, about one fourth of a mile ; this spot 
received its name from Zachary Fitch, who removed from liynn, 
in 1644, and probably erected the first house in this part of the 
town. It was formerly called " Fitch's La?ie,^' on account of its 
narrowness at that period. In reference to this, one man rather 
unwittingly remarked, " that it was so narrow that two teams 
could not meet." "Leather Street" extends westerly from the 
Common^ on the road to Woburn and Reading; it is said to have 
derived its name from the fact that, many years since, a man lived 
in this street who was so much in the habit of stealing sole leather, 
that if any one lost this article it was said that it had gone to this 
street. That part designated "Side the Pond " extends about one 
mile on the Andover road, on the eastern verge of the Great Pond. 
" Cowdrey's Hill," in the western part of the town, received its 
name from the family of Cowdreys, who have long owned and 
still own a large portion of its territory. "Lafayette Street" was 
laid out for making building lots; it is westerly from the (^'ommon, 
and is ahout one furlong in extent. "Eaton Street" is on the 
easterly side of the Common, and is a sort of court, extending 
about a furlong ; it was laid out in 1813. and received its name 
from L. Eaton, the proprietor of the land. Near this street is built 
the South Reading academy. " Water Street " extends easterly 
from the Common, about half a mile, towards Saugus; it derives 
its name from nmning alongside of a current of water which 
comes from Smith's Pond, in the south part of the town. " Little 
World" is in the south-easterly part of the town, and was so 
named from its peculiar location, being somewhat remote from the 
center of the town, and is a small extent of territory surrounded 
by hills on every side. This spot was originally cleared and culti- 
vated while all the land around was covered with trees, and thus 



SOUTH READING. 427 

enclosing its inhabitants in what was called a " little world/'' 
" West Ward" includes that part of the town lying west of the 
Common. "East Ward" is applied to the east and north-east 
part of the town ; " South Ward," to the southern part. 

The territorial extent of this town being quite limited, and most 
of the inhabitants being engaged in manufactures, very little 
attention is paid to agriculture ; the great staple and settled busi- 
ness of the town is the manufacture of ladies' shoes. It is esti- 
mated that of the four hundred male polls in the town, 250 are 
engaged in this manufacture. In 1837, there were manufactured 
175,000 pairs of shoes, valued at $142,000 ; males employed, 260; 
females, 186 ; value of tin ware manufactured, $24,000 ; hands 
employed, 28; value of block tin ware, ,$4,700; razor straps, 
$5,400; shoe tools, $3,000. Population, 1,488. Distance, 18 
miles from Concord, 10 from Salem, and 10 to Boston. 

The following is extracted from a manuscript History of South 
Reading, by Lilley Eaton, Esq., to which history the author is 
indebted for most of the facts relative to the history of this town : 

[In 1649,] " Three married women were fined 5s. apiece for scolding. 

1650. " The deputy to tlie general court was Richard Walker. The court ordered 
400 acres of land to be laid out to Rev. Samuel Haugh. 

" The majority of the court ordered a book lately imported from England, composed 
by Wm. Pynchon, of Springfield, on Redemption Justification, to be burnt in Boston, 
and its author called to an account. Deputy from Reading and 5 others dissented. 

1662. "This year the town ordered that no woman, maid, nor boy, nor gall shall sit 
in the South Alley and East Alley of the M. House, upon penalty of twelvepence 
for every day they shall sit in the alley after the present day. — It was further ordered, 
' That every dog that comes to the meeting after the present day, either of Lord's day 
or lecture days, except it be their dogs that pays for a dog whipper, the owner of 
those dogs shall pay sixpence for every time they come to the meeting, that doth not 
pay the dog whipper.' The names of 26 men are recorded as agreeing to pay to the 
dog whipper. 

1664. " This year the town exchanged lands with Matthew Edwards, he paying 30s. 
and a gallon of liquor to boot. 

1667. "This year the town contained 59 dwelling-houses. It was ordered, that every 
dog that comes into the meeting-house in time of service shall pay sixpence for every 
time he comes. 

1741. "Collins, the Journalist remarks, 'that this year there were extraordinary 
commotions with respect to religion. The people meet often, especially at the East- 
ward.' This extract refers to an excitement on the subject of religion begun the past 
year through the preaching of George Whitefield. Mr. Whitefield preached upon our 
common in the open air ; Mr. Hobby, the minister, went with the multitude to hear 
him. — It is said that Mr. Hobby afterwards remarked that he came to pick a hole in 
Mr. Whitefield's coat, but that he (Whitefield) picked a hole in his heart. Mr. H. 
afterwards wrote and published a defence of Mr. Whitefield, in a letter to Mr. Hench- 
man, the minister of Lynn, who had written against him. 

1799. " Twenty-three persons, members of the Baptist society, petitioned the pari.sh 
for liberty to hold religious meetings in centre school house, when the same is not in 
nse, and obligating themselves to pay all damages — this request was not granted. 

1800. " The meeting-house of the Baptist society was built this year ... the dimen- 
sions of it were 34 by 38, with a porch. On the occasion of erecting the frame of this 
house, the society appointed a committee to provide for the hands good beef, well 
baked potatoes, bread and cheese, cider and grog, and enough of each. 

1813. " The Universalist society of this town was formed. The town soon after voted 
that the Universalists may use the centre school house for religious meetings one 
Sabbath in a month, preceding the full of the moon." 

The following inscriptions are from monuments in the ancient 
buiying-ground in the center of the lown : 



428 STOW. 

Memento te esse raortalem — Fugit hora. Here lies the body of John Person. Aged 
64 years. Died April 17, 1679 — vive memor Laethi — fugit hora. 

Sargent Thomas Kendall, died July 22, 1684. Aged 63 years. 

Reader weep, prepare to die I say, 
For death by none will be said nay. 
One of the 7, of this church foundation, 
So to remain till the powerful voice say 
Rise in health, a glorious habitation. 
A pattern of piety and of peace. 
But now, alas ! how short his race. 
Here we mourn, and mourn we must, 
To see Zion's stones Uke gold laid in dust. 



To the Memory of Capt. John Brown Esq., who, after he had served his generation 
by the will of God, fell asleep March 11, A. D. 1717, M. about 83. 

Witty, yet wise, grave, good, among the best, 
Was he. The memory of the just is blest. 
Prudent, a pattern, and more I say, 
A hearty mourner for the sins of the day ; 
Bless'd God, when dying, that he feared not death. 
His pious soul took wings, give up her breath, 
Dropp'd here her mantle in the silent dust. 
Which waits the resurrection of the just. 



STONEHAM. 

This town was incorporated in 1725. It is about four miles 
in length, and two in breadth. The surface of the township is 
rather rocky and uneven, and a considerable portion of it is wooded. 
There is a beautiful pond in the south part of the town, called 
Spot Pond, filled with pure water. The village, in the center of 
the town, consists of about 40 dwelling-houses. Distance, 15 
miles from Concord, and 10 from Boston. Population, 932. The 
manufacture of shoes is the principal business of the town. In 
1837, in the Statistical Tables published by the state, it is stated 
that in this town were " Shoes manufactured, 380,100 pairs; value 
of same, $184,717 ; males employed, 297 ; females, 180." 



STOW. 



The Indian names of this place were Pompsiticut and Shabbnkin, 
from " two notable hills." It appears that the first minister called 
to the pastoral office in this place was the Rev. John Eveleth ; this 
was in 1700. Mr. Eveleth was dismissed in 1717. Rev. John 
Gardner was ordained in 1718, as the next pastor ; he died in 
1774, and was succeeded by Rev. Jonathan Newell the next year. 
Stow is 8 miles south-westerly from Concord, and 24 westward 
from Boston. It contains 1 Congregational church and 1,134 in- 
habitants. The town is watered by Assabet river, on which is 
situated a broadcloth factory. Of late years the cultivation of 
hops has received considerable attention in this town. In 1837, 



SUD BURY. 429 

there were In this town 2 woollen mills, 7 sets of machinery ; 
55,000 yards of cloth were manufactured, valued at $210,000 ; 
males employed, 40 ; females, 45. There were 587 pairs of boots 
and 61,044 pairs of shoes manufactured, valued at $18,905 50 ; 
males employed, 32 ; females, 30. 

The first settlement in this town appears to have been made by 
two adventurers from Charlestown, with their families, about the 
year 1650. Their names were Kettle and Boon ; they settled upon 
land which they purchased of the natives. Upon the breaking 
out of Philip's war, in 1675, these two defenceless settlers were so 
alarmed as to induce them to remove their families ; but the un- 
happy Boon, in attempting to remove his household goods, was 
ambushed and murdered by the Indians. The affairs of this vil- 
lage, as it was then called, were managed by a committee, under 
the appointment of the general court, until they were incorporated 
into a town in 1683, by the name of Stow. The first town officers 
were Sergeant Benjamin Bozworth, Thomas Stephens, Stephen 
Hall, Boaz Brown, and Joseph Freeman, selectmen; — Thomas 
Gates, constable. 



SUDBURY. 



Sudbury was first settled in 1638, and incorporated in 1639. 
The original number of sharers and settlers was 54. Mr. Edmund 
Brown, the first settled minister, was ordained Aug., 1640; died 
June 22, 1677. Mr. Sherman began to preach in Sudbury in 
1677 ; in 1705, he was deposed from his pastoral office. Mr. 
Israel Loring was ordained pastor in 1706. Upon the division of 
the town, by the general court, the inhabitants of the west side of 
the river invited him to come over and settle with them, in 1722. 
In 1765, the number of houses on the west side of the river was 
151 ; the number of families, 187 ; the number of inhabitants, 
1,047; the number of church members, 203; of whom 76 Avere 
males and 127 females. 

Sudbury is divided on the east from Wayland by Sudbury river, 
on which large tracts of low land are annually overflowed. There 
are 3 churches, 2 Congregational and 1 Methodist. There are 
about 30 houses in the central village. Distance, 7 miles south- 
west of Concord, 24 north-east from Worcester, and 19 miles 
westward from Boston. Population, 1,388. There is a paper-mill 
in this town. In 1837, there were 50 tons of stock manufactured ; 
value of paper, $5,463. 

The following is a western view of the monument of Captain 
Wadsworth and others, standing in an open field, about thirty 
rods eastward of the roqid, and a mile south of the Congregational 
church in old Sudbury, in the central part of the town. It stands 
near a growth of pines and oaks, and the soil on this spot is 
light and sandy. On the south and west there is a prospect of 



430 



TEWKSBUR Y. 




Monument of Captain Wadsworth arid others. 



the meadows on Sudbury river, 
on the monument : — 



The following is the inscription 



" Capt. Samuel Wadsworth of Milton, his Lieut. Sharp of Brooklin, Capt. Brocle- 
bank of Rowley, \vith about 26 other souldiers, fighting for the defence of their country, 
were slain by y^ Indian enemy, April 18"'> 1676, lye buried in this place." 

The following account is taken from Holmes' Annals. 

" This town was for some tinie a frontier settlement, and suffered much fVom the 
Indians during King Philip's war. On the 18th of April, 1676, the day after they 
had burned the few deserted houses at Marlborough, they violently attacked Sud 
bury, burned several houses and barns, and killed ten or twelve of the English 
who had come from Concord to the assistance of their neighbours. Captain Wads 
worth, sent at this juncture from Boston with about fifty men, to relieve Marlborough, 
after having marched twenty-five miles, learning that the enemy had gone through 
the woods toward Sudbuiy, turned immedicitely back, in pursuit of them. When the 
troops were within a mile of the town, they espied, at no great distance, a party of 
Indians, apparently about one hundred ; who, by retreating, as if through fear, drew the 
E nglish above a mile into the woods ; when a large body of the enemy, supposed to 
be about five hundred, suddenly surrounded them, and precluded the possibility of 
their escape. The gallant leader and his brave soldiers fought with desperate valour ; 
but they fell a prey to the numbers, the artifice, and bravery of their enemy. The 
few who were taken alive were destined to tortures unknown to their companions, 
who had the happier lot to die in the field of battle. 

"Some historians say that Captain Wadsworth's company was entirely cut off; 
others, that a few escaped. Some represent his company as consisting of 50; some, 
as consisting of 70 men. All agree that 50 at least were killed. Captain Broclebank 
and some others ' fell into his company as he marched along ;' and this accession 
may account for the difference in the narratives. President Wadsworth, (of Harvard 
College,) a son of Captain Wadsworth, who fell on this occasion, caused a decent 
monument to be afterward erected over the grave of these heroes." 



TEWKSBURY. 

This town was incorporated in 1734. The Indian settlement 
called Wamesit was formerly within the limits of this town, on 
the site now occupied by the flourishing village of Belvidere, re- 



TYNGSBOROUGH. 431 

centiy included within the Hmits of Lowell. " There were fifteen 
families of Christian Indians here in 1674. The Indian title was 
extinguished in 1686; but the settlement of the English was slow, 
so that more than forty years elapsed from the extinguishment of 
the Indian title to its incorporation. The soil here is light and 
thin ; the surface rather level, except the northern parts of the 
town, which is somewhat hilly, with a plenty of stones and a 
better soil." Large quantities of hops have been raised in this 
town. By the annexation of Belvidere to Lowell, this town was 
considerably reduced in its population and business. The popu- 
lation in 1830 was 1,527; in 1837, it was reduced to 907. Dis- 
tance, 12 miles from Concord, and 19 from Boston. 



TOWNSEND. 



This town was incorporated in 1732. The land in this town- 
ship is more level than the towns to the north and west ; most 
of it is gently undulating, and some of it consists of level pine 
plains. The soil generally is not of the first quality ; there are, 
however, some good farms in the town, and the soil is generally 
good for fruit-trees of all kinds which are common in this part 
of the country. In the central part of the town there is a village, 
containing two Congregational churches, one of which is Unita- 
rian. Several brooks unite in this town, and form Squanicook 
river, which discharges its waters into the Nashua. In the eastern 
part of the town there is a village called Toumsend Harbor^ where 
there are several mills, stores, &c. Population, 1,749. Distance, 
22 miles from Concord, 8 from Fitchburg, and 38 from Boston. 
In 1837, there were manufactured here 159,700 palm-leaf hats, 
valued at $22,750 ; the value of fish barrels, nail kegs and dry 
casks manufactured, was $9,357 ; there were 40,050 hides tanned 
and curried, valued at $25,150. 



TYNGSBOROUGH 



This was taken from Dunstable, in 1789, and incorporated as 
the district of Tyngsborough. It was so named in honor of Madam 
Sarah Winslow (the daughter of Eleazer Tyng) and her family. 
On the organization of the district, Mrs. Winslow agreed to fund 
a sum of money which should afforu the annual income of £80 
lawful money, to be devoted equally to support a Congregational 
minister and a grammar-school. In gratitude for this gift the 
district was named Tyngsborough. It was incorporated as a town 
in 1809. The first minister was Rev. Nathaniel Lawrence, who 
was ordained in 1790. This town lies on both sides of the Merri- 
mac, which is here a beautiful stream. Large quantities of excel- 

58 



432 W A L T H A M . 

lent granite have been quarried on the banks of this river, and 
sent from this place to the Boston market by the Middlesex canal. 
This place is 16 miles N. of Concord, 8 N. W. of Lowell, and 29 
N. W. of Boston. Population, 870. 

" The name of the first white inhabitant" (says Mr. Lawrence, 
in his history of Tyngsborough, in the Collections of the Massa- 
chusetts Historical Society, 1815) " was Cromwell, originally from 
England, but last from Boston. It is about 150 years since he 
erected a hut in this place, on the bank of the Merrimac, for the 
purpose of trading with the Indians. This, at that time, was the 
only English settlement on the south to Woburn, and on the north 
between there and Canada. Cromwell, for some time, carried on 
a lucrative trade with the Indians, weighing their furs with his 
foot, till, enraged at his supposed or real deception, they formed 
the resolution to murder him. This intention was communicated 
to Cromwell, who buried his wealth and made his escape. Within 
a few hours after his flight a party of the Pennacook tribe arrived, 
and, not finding the object of their resentment, burnt his hut. 
Some time after, pewter was found in the well, and an iron pot 
and trammel in the sand ; the latter are preserved. The present 
owner of the place was ploughing near the spot, and found his 
plough moving over a flat stone, which gave a hollow sound. On 
removing the earth and stone, he discovered a hole, stoned, about 
six inches in diameter, from which he took a sum of money." 



W A L T H A M 



This town was incorporated January 4th, 1737-38 ; previous to 
this time it was the western precinct of Watertown. It appears 
that there was considerable diflicidty between the eastern and 
western parts of Watertown for a long period. As early as 1692 
the town endeavored to select a place for a new meeting-house, 
which should be " most convenient for the bulk of the mhabit- 
ants." The same year, at the request of the selectmen, the gover- 
nor and council appointed a committee to consider and report upon 
the subject. This committee advised the town to settle the Rev, 
Henry Gibbs, who had preached to them for several years, and 
build a meeting-house between the house of widow Stearns and 
Whitney's Hill, in which the whole town should worship. This 
house was buiU here, and completed in February, 1696. It was 
not satisfactory to some parts of the town, and Mr. Gibbs refused 
to preach in it. In August, the same year, the church chose Rev. 
Samuel Angier to be their pastor, and a majority of the town con- 
curred in the choice. In 1697, Mr. Angier accepted of the call of 
the church and town, expressing his readiness to assume the duties 
of his office. At the same time, the church chose Rev. Mr. East- 
erbrook, of Concord, "to give the pastoral charge, and to be the 
mouth and moderator of the church in the public management of 



W ALTH AM 



433 




Eastern view of Massasoit Hotel, Waltham. 

the whole affair of perfecting the settlement of Mr. Angier." It 
appears that excepting Mr. Easterbrook no minister in the vicinity 
could be obtained to assist on this occasion. The church, agreeably 
to their vote, proceeded to induct their pastor into office. After a 
discourse had been preached by Mr. Angier, it was declared that 
the church had chosen Mr. Easterbrook to manage the whole 
affair, and give the pastoral charge. He accordingly read Mr. 
Angler's dismission and recommendation from the church at lleho- 
both, desired the church to accept the same, and to receive Mr. A, 
into their fellowship ; asked them to renew their invitation to Mr. 
A. to be their minister, and him to repeat the acceptance of their 
call; "and then, with much gravity and seriousness, gave a most 
solemn and scriptural charge to Mr. Angier, to attend to the whole 
pastoral duty in and towards the church." In the MSS. of Judge 
Sewall it is recorded: "Oct. 6, 1697, a church was gathered at 
Water town, east end, and Mr. Henry Gibbs was ordained. The 
ceremony was abroad, because the western party got possession of 
the meeting-house." Though Mr. Angier and Mr. Gibbs were 
both ministers of Watertown, yet they can liardly be said to have 
been associates, as one preached in the old and the other in the 
new meeting-house, and the adherents appear to have been some- 
what at variance. They were both, however, maintained Irom the 
town treasury. This state of things continued till 1720, when the 
town was divided into two precincts. Mr. Angier died in 1719. 
In 1723, Rev. Warham Williams was ordained their next pastor ; 
he was the son of Mr. Williams of Deerfield, and was carried off 
with his father by the Indians into Canada. Mr. Williams died 
in 17.51, aged 52. He was succeeded by Rev. Jacob Gushing, 
who was ordained in 1752. Dr. Gushing died in 1809, aged 79 
years. He was succeeded by Rev. Samuel Ripley the same year. 
The above is an eastern view of the Massasoit Hotel, situated 
at the eastern extremity of the principal street in Waltham. The 



434 WATERTOWN. 

village consists of about 150 dwelling-houses, mostly situated on 
one street, running east and west, about 1 mile in extent, across 
the level plain on which the town is built. There are a number 
of elegant residences in the immediate vicinity, surrounded by 
grounds tastefully ornamented by evergreen and other trees. 

Waltham is one of the pleasantest towns in the vicinity of Boston. 
The land in the south part of the town which runs parallel with 
Charles river, the distance of two miles, and half a mile in breadth, 
is very level, and is mostly of a light sandy soil, not very deep. 
Adjoining the river it is fertile. In the interior the land is in gene- 
ral uneven, and in some parts rocky. There are two ponds in 
the town — Beaver Pond, which is about one mile in circumference, 
and near the village, and Mead's Pond, which is much larger, 
being a mile in length and more than half a mile in breadth : it is 
situated in the N, W. part of the town. The principal branch of 
Beaver brook takes its rise from this pond. Gov. Winthrop and 
his companions, who traversed this part of the country in 1632, 
gave the name to Beaver brook "because the beavers had shorn 
down divers great trees, and made divers dams across the brook." 
Charles river, which washes the southern extremity of this town, 
affords considerable water power, which has been well improved. 
The " Waltham Cotton and Woollen Manufacturing Company," 
an extensive establishment, was incorporated in 1812. The Boston 
Manufacturing Company was incorporated in 1813. " By extra- 
ordinary skill and good management, these establishments, though 
the first in the country on an extensive scale, and through all the 
various commercial changes, have proved lucrative to the proprie- 
tors, and highly beneficial to the public." " The private gardens 
of the Honorable Theodore Lyman, in this town, are unsurpassed 
for costliness and beauty by any other in the United States." 
There are 6 churches, 3 Congregational, 1 Methodist, 1 Univer- 
salist, and 1 Catholic. Population, 2,287. Distance, 9 miles S. E. 
of Concord, 34 N. E. of Worcester, 10 northerly of Dedham, and 
10 westerly from Boston. 

In 1837, there were 3 cotton mills, 11,488 spindles; cotton con- 
sumed, 89.5,446 lbs.; 2,433,630 yards of cotton goods were manu- 
factured, valued at $275,000; males employed, 76; females, 400; 
capital invested, .^450,000. Value of boots and shoes manufactured 
was $17,787 ; value of hats manufactured, )|24,000 ; value of paper 
manufactured, (^12,480. There is a machine shop and a bleach- 
ery, each of which employs about 30 hands. 



WATERTOWN, 



This is an ancient town, it being settled the same year as Bos- 
ton, in 1630. The first Englishmen who are known to have 
visited the place were Mr. Wareham and some of his people, 
who afterwards settled Dorchester ; for an account of which the 



WATERTOWN. 



435 



reader is referred to the history of that town in this work. The 
j)lace in Watertown where they remained a few days is stated yet 
to bear the name of Dorchester Fields. Shortly after their remo- 
val, a permanent establishment was effected by another company. 
A party of the adventurous emigrants who came in Winthrop's 
fleet, with Sir Richard Saltonstall and Rev. George Phillips at 
their head, selected a place on the banks of Charles river for their 
plantation. On the 7th of Sept., 1630, (0. S.) the court of assist- 
ants, at Charlestown, "ordered that Trimountain be called Boston, 
Mattapan, Dorchester, and the town on Charles river, Watertown." 

The name of Watertown is said to have originated from the circumstance of its 
being a " well watered place," or, perhaps, from its being situated on a considerable 
fresh-water river, and the communication with Boston being at first by water, in boats. 
The Indian name of the town was Pigsguesset. The territory thus called Watertown 
was, like most of the towns of that early period, very large, and its boundaries on the 
west side for a considerable time somewhat undefined. Waltham, Weston, and a part 
of Lincoln, were once comprehended within its limits. There are no means of ascer- 
taining with precision the number of the first inhabitants, but it appears by the towTi 
records that in 1636 there were 108 townsmen. Probably the original number in 1630 
was considerably less than this. The following list is copied from AVatertown record 
book first, and were names of persons who shared in a division of lands at Beaver 
brook, " divided and lotted out by the Freemen to all the Townsmen then inhabiting, 
being 108 in number." 

Timothy Hawkins, 
Gregory Stone, 
James Cutter, 
John Cutting, 
Daniel Perse, 
Barnaby Windes, 
John Kingsberry, 
Robert Feke, 
Isaac Stone, 
Thomas Smith, 
John Rose, 
Miles Nutt, 
John Hayward, 
Thomas Filbrick, 
Simon Stone, 



Geo. Phillips, pastor, Nathaniel Baker, 
John Whitney, John Ricliardson, 

Thomas Hastings, George Munnings, 
Richard Woodward, Henry Bright, 
Robert Betts, Nicholls Knapp, 

John Grigs, Richard Sawtle, 

John Simson, John Ellett, 

Charles Chadwick, Francis Smith, 



Robert Veasey, 
Henry Goldstone, 
John Smith, sen., 
John Tomson, 
John Eddy, 
Wilham Bassum, 
Benjamin Crispe, 
Edmund Sherman, 
William Bridges, 
Gregory Taylor, 
John Coolige, 
Daniel Patrick, 
Joseph Mosse, 
Ephraim Child, 
Robert Lockwood, 
Francis Onge, 
John Gay, 
Simon Eire, 



John Eaton, 

John Loveran, 

William Jennison, 

John Page, 

Samuel Hosier, 

John Winkell, 

John Goffe, 

Nathaniel Bowman, Robert Daniel, 

Brian Pembleton, Isaac Mixer, 

Richard Brown, Edward How, 

John Lawrence, Henry Dengayne, 

John Tucker, Thomas Maihew, 

Thomas Cakebread, John Stowars, 



Robert Tuck, 
Henry Cuttris, 
Richard Kemball, 
John Barnard, 
Edward Dikes, 



Sir Rich. Saltonstall, Thomas Brookes, 



Richard Beere, 
Edmund James, 
John Firman, 
John Warrin, 
John Batcheler, 
William Knop, 



Henry Kemball, 
William Palmer, 
Edmund Lewis, 
John Finch, 
William Swift, 
John Winter, 
Edward Lam, 
John Smith, Jr., 
Roger WiUington, 
Christopher Grant, 
John Nichols, 
John Dwight, 
Foster Pickram, 
John Springe, 
John Warner, 
Emanuel White, 
Edward Garfield, 
William Gutterig, 
Hugh Mason, 
Thomas Rogers, 
Thomas Bartlett, 
John Doggett, 
Lawrence Waters, 
Martin Underwood, 
"".Villi am Paine, 
Garrett Church, 
Abram Shaw. 



The first church in Watertown was gathered on the 30th of 
July, 1630, upon a day set apart for '■^ solemn fasting and prayer .,^^ 
which had been appointed by Gov. Winthrop, on account of the 
prevailing sickness in the settlements. Cotton Mather says that 
Rev. Mr. Phillips, with about 40 men, settlers of Watertown, on 
that occasion subscribed the covenant, in order unto their coales- 
cence into a church estate. The Hon. James Savage, in a recent 
investigation of the subject, makes the first church in Boston and 



436 WATERTOWN. 

the Watertown church precisely coeval, assigning the origin of 
both to the 30th of July, 1(330. 

The first minister of Watertown was the Rev. George Phillips, who continued in thai 
office 14 years. At the first court of assistants, held at Charlestown, on board the 
Arabella, it was ordered that, as speedily as might be convenient, houses should be 
erected for the ministers at the public charge. Sir Richard Saltonstall "undertook to 
have this done for Mr. Phillips,'" and for salary he was to have £30 annually. The 
first meeting-house stood on the north side of the road to Cambridge, near the old 
barying-yard ; there was a common before it, which was used as a training-field. Mr. 
Phillips was sole minister of Watertown till 16S9. In that year. Rev. John Knowles, 
"a godly man, and prime scholar," arrived in New England, and in December was 
ordained second pastor of the church, in connexion with Mr. Phillips. In 1642, Mr. 
Knowles went to Virginia, where he preached a short time, but returned again to 
AVatertown. He remained there a while after his return, but finally returned to Eng- 
land, after an absence of 11 years. He died in London, in 1685, at a very advanced 
age. On the 1st of July, 1644, died Rev. George Phillips. He is said to have been 
an able controversial writer. Mr. Phillips was succeeded in the ministry by Rev. John 
Sherman, a native of Dedham, Essex county, England. He was educated at Eman- 
uel College, Cambridge, but left college when ready for a degree, under the character 
of a college puritan. In 1634-5 he emigrated to New England. He preached his first 
sermon at Watertown under a large tree, as an assistant to Mr. Phillips. His per- 
formance was much admired by several ministers present. Soon after this, he removed 
to New Haven colony, and preached in sundry places. The church in Milford invited 
him to become their teacher, but he declined, and for a time altogether suspended his 
ministry, whereupon he was chosen one of the judges of the town, and a magistrate 
of the colony. It was much against the wishes of the people of Milford and New 
Haven that he removed to Watertown. At the same time he was invited to settle in 
Boston, and two churches in London tried to obtain him. He was a man of superior 
intellectual endowments, was the best mathematician of the day, and left voluminous 
manuscripts on the science of astronomy. Mr. Sherman was the father of 26 chil- 
dren, by two marriages, 6 by the first and 20 in the other. He died in 1685, aged 72, 
and was succeeded by Rev. John Bailey, who was ordained in 1686. He was assisted 
for a time in the ministry by his brother, Mr. Thomas Bailey, till his death, in 1689 ; 
after which, Mr. Henry Gibbs was engaged as teacher. In 1692, Rev. John Bailey 
left Watertown and returned to Boston. Mr. Gibbs was now the only minister in the 
town, and was engaged from time to time, but not ordained. About 1692, there was 
much excitement on the subject of the location of a new meeting-house. In opposi- 
tion to the wishes of the inhabitants of the eastern part of the town, it was located in 
the middle part. This caused a separation of the church. Mr. Gibbs continued to 
preach in the old meeting-house, and appears to have been settled in 1697. The part 
of the society who had built the new meeting-house obtained a pastor. Rev. Samuel 
Angler, who was also ordained in 1697. In 1720, a committee, appointed by the gene- 
ral court, to run the dividing fine between the societies, decided that the western or 
new meeting-house should be removed to an eminence in the present town of Waltham, 
and that the old or east meeting-house should be removed to the hill back of the pre- 
sent meeting-house of the society, then called School-house Hill. Both societies soon 
erected new meeting-houses at the places directed by the committee. The Avestern 
parish, in 1787, was incorporated a distinct town, by the name of Waltham. Mr. 
Gibbs died in 1723, in the 56th year of his age, and in the 27th of his ministry, 
reckoned from the date of his ordination. He was interred in the old burying-yard. 
The successor of Mr. Gibbs was Rev. Seth Storer, (of Saco, Maine, and a graduate 
of Harvard in 1720,) who was ordained in 1724. He died in 1774, aged 73. 

The ministry of Mr. Storer was the longest which occurs in 
the history of Watertown, being half a century. The situation 
of the meeting-house was removed during his ministry from the 
summit of the hill to the present location, but not without much 
opposition. Rev. Daniel Adams was the next minister in succes- 
sion from Mr. Storer, and was ordained in 1778. He was a native 
of Medway, and was of tlie 5th generation from Henry Adams, 
who came from Devonshire, England, about 1630, and settled in 



WATERTOWN. 



437 



Braintree, (Quincy.) His ministry was short, as he died in 
August following his ordination. The next pastor of this church 
was Rev. Richard Rosewell Eliot, a native of New Haven, Con., 
and descendant of Rev. John Eliot, the memorable teacher of the 
Indians. He graduated at Harvard, in 1774, and was ordained 
at Watertown in 1780. He died in 1818, aged 66, and was suc- 
ceeded by the present pastor. Rev. Convers Francis ;* ordained 
in 1S19. The Universalist society was formed in 1826. In 
August, 1827, their meeting-house was dedicated, and on that 
occasion Rev. Russell Streeter was installed ns pastor. In 1829, 
he was dismissed, and in 183U succeeded by Rev. Wm. S. Balch. 
The Baptist church was formed in August, 1830: when their 
house was dedicated, and Rev. Peter Chase installed their pastor. 




Southern view of the central part of Watertown. 

Watertown village is large and compactly built, about 6 miles 
from Boston. The above is a representation of the appearance 
of the village as it is seen from the Newton road, on the south 
side of Charles river. The tower of the Congregational (Unita- 
rian) church, a fine Gothic structure, is seen in the distance, in 
the central part of the engraving; the Baptist church is seen on 
the right. The United States Arsenal, occupying a site of 40 
acres, is about a mile eastward of the village, on the Boston road. 
The arsenal consists of several large brick buildings, enclosed 
by a high fence, on the north bank of Charles river. Water- 
town, in extent of territory, is one of the smallest towns in the 
state, containing but 3,833^^ acres, including land and Avater; 
the soil is generally remarkably good. A portion of the south- 
eastern extremity of the town is sandy, poor, and barren ; but 
with this exception the land is some of the most productive in 

* Mr. Francis is the author of a well-written History of Watertown, published in 1830, 
in a pamphlet form, containing 150 octavo pages, entitled " An Historical Sketch of 
Watertown," from ihe first settlement of the town to the close of the second century. 



438 W A T E R T O W N . 

the commonwealth. Population, 1,739. In 1837, there were 
thre*^ soap and candle manufactories; tallow used, 300 tons; 
barilla, 350 tons; palm oil, 50 tons; rosin, 1,750 barrels; fuel, 
375 cords; lime, 2,000 casks; salt, 1,000 bushels ; capital invested, 
$27,000. There were 85.000 boxes manufactured, valued at 
$14,000, and 1 cotton and 2 paper mills in operation. 

It seems a very remarkable complaint so early as IfiSo, that "all the towns in the 
Bay began to be much straitened by their own nearness to one another, and their cattle 
being so much increased." This is said to be accounted for by the government hav- 
ing at first required every man to hve within half a mile from the meeting-house in 
his town. The want of room appears from some cause to have been peculiarly felt 
in Watertown ; and on several occasions the inhabitants emigrated and formed new 
settlements. The first of these was in 1635, at the place afterwards called "Wethers- 
field, in Connecticut, where, as we are told, some people of Watertown, before they had 
obtained leave to go beyond the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts government, ■' took 
the (>pportunily of seizing a brave piece of meadow,"' which it .seems was also coveted 
by their neighbors of Cambridge. This Watertown plantation at Wethersfield was for 
a long course of years a scene of dissension within and without. In the course of 
three or four years the church at that place fell into such a state of discord that 
the plantation divided, and a part removed and settled in combination with New 
Haven. 

Watertown in early times received but little trouble from the Indians. One remark- 
able instance, however, of Indian vengeance on a citizen of this town, was the melan- 
choly fate of Capt. John Oldham. Before the settlement of Massachusetts Bay, he had 
resided in Plymouth, from which place, for some misconduct, he was expelled. He, 
however, was highly respected in Watertown, and was a deputy from the town to the 
first general court, in 1632. He became a distinguished trader among the Indians, 
and went to traffic with them at Block Island. The Indians got possession of Oldham's 
vessel, and murdered him in the most shocking manner. Two boys and two Narra- 
gansett Indians the murderers had spared. Tliis atrocious deed excited great indig- 
nation in all the English settlements, and was one of the immediate causes of the 
celebrated Pequot war. In 1639, an order is found in the records by which " the 
meeting-house is appointed for a watch-house for the use of the town," which may 
lead to the inference that it was thought necessary to maintain a patrol in the night for 
fear of the Indians. 

In the early wars of the country, and in the revolutionary war, 
the inhabitants of Watertown took an active part. In the time of 
excitement preceding the war of American independence, the 
article of tea was proscribed in this town, in the following words : 
Voted, " That Ave consent to lay aside all foreign teas, as expen- 
sive and pernicious, as well as unnecessary; this continent abound- 
ing with many herbs of a more salubrious quality, which, if we 
were as much used to as the- poisonous bohea, would, no doubt, 
in time be as agreeable, perhaps much more so; and whilst, by a 
manly influence, we expect our women to make this sacrifice to 
the good of their country, we hereby declare we shall highly 
honor and esteem the encouragers of our own manufactures and 
the general use of the productions of this continent ; this being in 
our judgment, at this time, a necessary means (under God) of 
rendering us a happy and free people." The second and third 
sessions of the provincial congress Avere held at Watertowm, in 
the meeting-house, within the first six months of the year 1775. 
Dr. Joseph Warren, the early and lamented martyr in the cau«e 
of freedom, on the memorable 17th of June, presided at their 
deliberations. The congress was busy in adopting such measures 



WATE RTO WN. 439 

as the distracted state of the colony required. Among the few 
newspapers printed at that time was " The Boston Gazette and 
Country Journal," published at Boston, by Edes and Gill, and was 
distinguished by the spirited and fearless tone in which it defended 
the American cause. The press of this paper Avas removed to 
Watertown, and the Gazette was there published for more than a 
year, from June 5th, 1775, to Oct. 28, 1776, when, the British 
having evacuated Boston, the office was moved back. 

The inhabitants of Watertown bore their part of the losses and 
burdens of the country at this perilous period. One of their num- 
ber was killed on the 19th of April, and many others, during 
the war, either died by sickness in camp, or fell on the field of 
battle. 

Sir Richard Saltonstall, who has been mentioned as the leader of the planters to 
this town, was of an ancient and highly respectable family in Yorkshire. He was a 
gentleman of noble qualities of mind and heart, and has always been deservedly regarded 
as one of the venerated fathers of the Massachusetts settlement. He remained in the 
colony not quite a year, but was of much service to them in England, before and after 
his visit to America. His liberal and tolerant spirit in religious matters was truly 
remarkable for the times in which he lived, and presents to the eye of the historical 
inquirer a trait of character as honorable and attractive as it was uncommon. Among 
his services to the colony, he was one of the early benefactors of Harvard college. 
He died in 1658. 

The following epitaphs are copied from the old burying-groimd, 
east of the village, on the Cambridge road : 

Johannis Shermani, maximse pietatis, gravitatis et candoris viri, in Theologia pluri- 
mum versati ; in concionando vere Chrysostomi, et in Artibus liberalibus pr^cipue 
Mathematicis, incomparabilis ; Aquifamensis ecclesije in Nov. Anglia fidehssimi 
pastoris, Collegii Harvardini inspectoris et socii ; qui postquam annis plus minus xlv 
Christi fuit ' ynrQiTt^c* in ecclesia fidus ; morte inatura transmigravit, et a Christo 
palma decoratus est, A. D. mdclxx.xv, Augusti viu, ^tatis lxxii ; memoriae. 

[To the memory of John Sherman, a man of the greatest piety, dignity and candor; 
well versed in theology, in the pulpit a very Chrysostom ; and in the liberal arts, 
especially mathematics, exceedingly skilful. He was the faithful pastor of the church 
at Watertown, in New England, and an overseer and fellow of Harvard college. 
After he had been an undaunted servant of Christ for forty-five years, he was removed 
when ripe for his departure, and received the palm from his Redeemer, on the 8th of 
August, 1685, in the 72d year of his age.] 



Here lyes the precious dust of Thomas Bailey, 
A painful preacher, "^ (A most desirable neighbor, 



An eminent liver, 
A tender husband, 



A pleasant companion, 
A common good, 



A careful father, [ ] A cheerful doer, 

A brother for adversity, | j A patient sufferer, 

A faithful friend, J [ Lived much in little time, 

A good copy for all survivors. 

* " Immediately after this word Mr. Bailey, who transcribed this epitaph into his 
manuscript book, has inserted in a parenthesis the following comment : 'i.e. one of 
the underrowers that steer the ship towards the haven.' In thus explaining this 
Greek word according to its derivation, rather than its common and obvious sense, he 
has made it present to the mind a metaphor somewhat striking and pleasing." — 
J^ancis' History of WatertoTon. 

59 



440 WR3T CAMBRIDGE. 

Aged 35 years. 
He slept in Jesus the 2lst of January, 1688. 



Pious Lydia, made and given by God 
As a most meet help unto John Bailey, 
Minister of the Gospel. 
Good betimes — Best at last, 
Lived by faith — Died in grace, 
"Went off singing — left us weeping, 
Walked with God till translated, in the 3yth yeare 
of her age, April 16, IfiOl. 
Read her epitaph in Prov. xxxi. 10, 11, 12, 28, 29, 30, 31. 



W A Y L A N D . 



This town bore the name of East Sudbiiry from 1780 untJ 
1835. It is separated on the west from Sudbury by the river of 
that name, a sluggish stream, which annually overflows a large 
tract of low lands, which produce great crops of hay without the 
necessity of cultivation. In February, 1722-3, the church at 
Sudbury was, by a vote of the members, divided into two distinct 
churches. Mr. Cooke was ordained the pastor on the east side of 
Sudbury river, in March, 1723; he died in 1760. In 1765, the 
number of houses on the east side was 112; the number of fami- 
lies, 129 ; the number of white inhabitants, 698. There are two 
Congregational churches in this town, one of which is Unitarian. 
It is 7 miles south of Concord, 7 north-east of Framingham, and 
16 west of Boston. Population, 931. In 1837, there were manu- 
factured in this town 230 pairs of boots, and 29,666 pairs of shoes, 
valued at $22,419. There were 4 forges, which manufactured 8 
tons of bar iron, valued at $2,600. 



WEST CAMBRIDGE. 

West Cambridge was incorporated a town in 1807. It was 
previously a part of Cambridge, called Menotomy. The southern 
part of the town is low, and some of it swampy. The middle is 
dry and healthy, with good land for culture and pasturage ; the 
north part of the town is broken, rocky, and partially covered 
with wood. This town has a considerable village, situated prin- 
cipally on a single street, about a mile in length. There are 
three churches, 1 Congregational, 1 Universalist, and 1 Bap- 
tist. Population, 1,308. Distance, 12 miles from Concord, 4 from 
Lexington, and 6 from Boston. In 1837, there were 500 pairs of 
boots and 31,000 pairs of shoes manufactured, valued at $25,500. 
There were 2 mills for pulverizing drugs, medicines and dye-stuffs ; 
capital invested, $24,000 ; hands employed, 11 ; value of the same 
manufactured, $200,000. One dying and calico-printing manufac- 
tory ; hands employed, 44; value of manufacture, $40,000. Value 



WESTON. 441 

of saws manufactured, $30,000. Value of chairs and cabinet 
ware manufactured, |^10,000. There was also a card manufactory 
and a turning and sawing mill. 



WESTFORD. 



This town was formerly a part of Chelmsford grant ; after a 
long controversy it was incorporated as a distinct town in 1729. 
" The church and society was established here in 1724, and the 
town of Chelmsford paid 100 pounds towards building a meeting- 
house for this parish, which was then called the west precinct in 
Chelmsford; they also received their proportion of the ministerial 
lands." This is principally an agricultural township, the soil 
being strong and productive, well adapted to grass, grain, and 
fruit trees. The village in the center of the town contains two 
Congregational churches and an academy, one of the oldest in 
the state, having a respectable fund for the support of a preceptor. 
The village is situated on the summit of a large swell, having a 
fine prospect over the neighboring valleys and of the distant 
mountains. Wachusett, Monadnock, and many of less height, 
are distinctly visible. Population, 1,451. Distance, 10 miles from 
Concord, 30 from Salem, 8 from Lowell, 5 to Chelmsford, 6 to 
Carlisle, and 25 from Boston. In 1837, there were three forges in 
this town ; 90 tons of bar iron were manufactured, valued at 
$9,900. There are large quantities of granite quarried here, 
which is commonly called " Chelmsford granite." 



WESTON. 



" The exact period" (says Dr. Kendal in his Century Sermon, 
preached in 1813) " when what is now called Weston began to 
be settled is not known ; but it must have been pretty early ; for 
there are still standing houses which were erected about one hun- 
dred and forty years ago. In ecclesiastical affairs, however, this 
town \vas connected with Watertown about sixty-eight, and in 
civil concerns about eighty-three years. The tradition is, that the 
inhabitants of the remote westerly part of this town went to 
worship at the remote easterly part of Watertown, at a house not 
far from the old burying place." Weston was incorporated as a 
distinct town in 1712, previous to which time it had been called 
the westerly, more westerly, and most westerly precmct in Water- 
town. In 1694, the town of Watertown passed the following 
vote: "Our neighbors, the farmers, being upon endeavours to 
have a meeting-house among themselves, the town consents that 
they may come as far as Beaver Brook upon the country road 
leading to Sudbury, and so run north and south upon a line, to 
the end there may be peace and settlement amongst us." There 
appears to hav^ been considerable difficulty in regard to the settle- 



442 W O B U R N . 

ment of a minister among them ; a Mr. Mors preached for a time, 
but was not settled. After having been twice directed to provide 
a man to preach among them, the precinct, in 1706, was presented 
at the court of sessions, on account of their not having a settled 
minister. After a period of more than eleven years after the 
Farms had become a distinct precinct. Rev. William Williams was 
ordained here, in 1709. Rev. Samuel Woodward, the successor of 
Mr. Williams, was ordained in 1751. Mr. Woodward died in 
1782, and was succeeded by Rev. Samuel Kendal, D. D., in 1783. 
This township is in general an uneven, and in some parts a 
broken tract of land. A considerable portion is elevated above 
the common level of the adjacent country. There are three houses 
of worship in the limits of the town : 1 Baptist, 1 Methodist, and 
1 Congregationalist. There are a number of beautiful country- 
seats, where persons from Boston reside during the summer months. 
Population, 1,051. Distance, 9 miles from Concord, 9 from Ded- 
ham, and 14 ifrom Boston. Boots and shoes are the principal arti- 
cles manufactured in this town. In 1837, of the former there 
were manufactured 5,606 pairs, and of the latter, 17,182 pairs. 



WILMINGTON. 



This town was incorporated in 1730. This township was com- 
posed of the corners of the adjoining towns. " The soil of this 
town is thin and light, but produces most of the fruits of the cli- 
mate, and especially hops have been raised here in great abun- 
dance and perfection." The face of the township is comparatively 
level. A main branch of Ipswich river takes its rise in this town. 
There is a Congregational church in the center, but no considera- 
ble village in any part of the town, the inhabitants being princi- 
pally farmers, who live scattered over all parts of the town. 
Population, 795. Distance, 10 miles from Lowell, and 14 from 
Boston. The Middlesex canal and Lowell railroad pass through 
the western section of this town. 



WOBURN 



WoBURN at the period of its first settlement was called " Charles- 
town Village;" it was incorporated as a town in 1642. In the same 
year the first church was gathered, and Rev. Thomas Carter 
ordained the first minister. In the year 1640 news was brought 
to Charlestown of the conveniency of land adjoining their north 
bounds. Upon this a petition was presented to the general court 
for two miles square of land to be added to their head line. This 
petition was granted, and the addition afterwards increased to four 
miles square. A committee was sooii after chosen by Charlestown 



W B U R N , 



443 



church to explore the land, and make arrangements for erectmg a 
new church and town. All was then a wilderness. The com- 
mittee were obliged to spend nights without shelter, " whilst the 
rain and snow did bedew their rocky beds." They have recorded 
one remarkable providence as "never to be forgotten." Some of 
the company sheltering themselves under the body of a large tree, 
which lay at a distance from the ground, no sooner was the last of 
them come from under it, at break of day, than, to their amaze- 
ment, it fell ; and they were obliged to dig out their provisions, 
their united strength being insufficient to remove it. 




Southern view in the central part of Woburn. 

The place for house lots and a meeting-house was originally laid 
out on the plain, at the east end of our bounds, but afterwards re- 
moved to this place. The iirst care was to procure a regular ad- 
ministration of the words and ordinances of Christ. Indeed, a set- 
tlement was hardly considered as fixed in those days before these 
were established. A meeting-house and house for a minister were 
among the first erected; and to procure a minister appears from 
the records to have been the principal concern of the inhabitants. 
"It is a remarkable circumstance," (says Mr. Chickering, in his 
Historical Discourse, printed in 1809,) •' that the people had been 
so oppressed by ecclesiastical tyranny, and were so jealous of their 
religious rights, that they undertook, in the presence and with the 
consent of a respectable council, to ordain their own minister. 
The ordination was conducted in the following manner. After 
the candidate had continued in preaching and prayer the greater 
part of the day, two persons, in the name of the church, laid their 
hands upon his head, and said, ' We ordain thee, Thomas Carter, 
to be pastor unto this church of Christ!' Then one of the elder 
ministers present, at the desire of the church, made an appropriate 
prayer for God's assistance to his young servant in performing the 
duties of his office. =^ * *= During his ministry, which was pro- 
longed more than forty-two years, there appears to have been the 
greatest harmony between him and the society." 



444 



WOBURN. 



Woburn is a village consisting of about 70 or 80 dwelling-houses, 
a number of mechanic shops and mercantile stores, with 4 
churches, 1 Congregational, 2 Baptist, and 1 Universalist, and an 
academy. The cut (p. 443) is a southern view of the Congregational 
and Baptist churches, with some of the buildings in the vicinity. 
Distance, 12 miles from Concord, 13 to Lynn, 15 to Salem, 5 to 
Reading, 15 to Lowell, and 10 to Boston. The Middlesex canal 
runs a little to the west of the village, and the Lowell railroad a 
little to the east. Population, 2,643. The manufacture of shoes 
is a very important branch of business in this place. In 1837, 
there were manufactured in this town 800 pairs of boots, 279,844 
pairs of shoes, valued at $221,251 ; males employed, 383; females, 
320. There were "Tanneries, 4; hides tanned, 12,400; value of 
leather tanned and curried, (including 7,000 hides curried but not 
tanned in said town,) $150,200; hands employed, 77; capital 
invested, $72,533." There were 3 door, sash, and blind manufac- 
tories ; value of manufactures, $26,500 ; hands employed, 17. 
One India rubber manufactory; value of articles manufactured, 
$10,000. 




Southern view of Horn Fond at Woburn. 

Horn Pond, lying in the immediate vicinity of Woburn village, 
is a place of considerable resort during the warm season of the year. 
In the engraving, a small but beautiful island is seen on the left. 
On the extreme right, the house for the accommodation of visiters 
is partially seen, before which is a beautiful grove of pine and 
other trees. In this grove is erected a summer-house, with seats, 
&c., for the accommodation of visiters. An artificial fountain, 
jutting up its cooling waters, adds much to the beautiful and varie- 
gated scenery of this place. Between the house and the lake the 
Middlesex canal passes, having 6 locks at this place, which are 
built in a very superior manner. 



NANTUCKET. 445 

NANTUCKET COUNTY AND TOWN. 

This county is composed of 5 islands. Beginning west, the first 
is Muskeeket, which is about 6 miles east from Washqua Point, in 
Chappequiddick Island. It is a low, sandy island, and is not used 
for grazing. South-east of this island is Tuckernuck, an island 
containing about 1,000 acres of land, which affords pasture for 
1,000 sheep and 50 head of horned cattle. Between Muskeeket 
and Tuckernuck are two small islands, called Gravelly Islands, 
which are of no value. The only island of importance is the large 
island of Nantucket. 

" The town of Nantucket is about 30 miles south of the main or 
continent, 60 miles S. E. from New Bedford, 100 S. 8. E. from 
Boston, and 382 miles E. N. E. from Philadelphia. It lies in 
north latitude 41° 15' 22" ; in west longitude 70° 7' 56". It con- 
tains nearly 30,000 acres of land, and is about 14 miles long, east 
and west, and 3 and a half broad, on an average, north and south.'* 
The population of Nantucket in 1837 was 9,048. The principal 
harbor is on the north side of the island, in the bottom or bend of 
an extensive bay, and is nearly land-locked by two points of beach, 
about three fourths of a mile apart ; one on the east, called Coetue, 
the other on the west, called Brant Point. Within these points, 
and on the west side, are the wharves and the town. Nearly two 
miles from the shore, to the northward of the harbor, is a bar, 
which all vessels coming in or out are under the necessity of pass- 
ing. Vessels drawing nine feet of water may, with good pilots, 
pass over this bar and into the harbor. The number of vessels 
belonging to the port in 1834 was 140, viz. 73 ships, 20 schooners, 
46 sloops, 1 steam-boat. Total tonnage, 29,550, of which are en- 
gaged in the whale-fishery 25,357 tons. About two thousand 
men and boys belonging to the island are employed in navigation. 
The whale-fishery commenced here at an early period, and this 
place is perhaps more celebrated than any other for the enterprise 
and success in this species of nautical adventure. There are 3 
banks, the "Citizens Bank," capital $100,000; the "Manufactur- 
ers and Mechanics Bank," capital $100,000; and the "Pacific 
Bank," with a capital of $200,000. The "Phoenix Insurance 
Company" has a capital of ,$100,000, and the " Commercial In- 
surance Company" a capital of $125,000. There is a regular 
daily communication between this place and New Bedford by a 
steam-boat and packets, which touch at Wood's Hole, near Fal- 
mouth, and at Holmes' Hole on Martha's Vineyard. 

The town of Nantucket, which embraces nearly all the houses 
on the island, is very compactly built, most of the streets narrow, 
and the houses are mostly constructed of wood. The inhabitants 
seem sensible of their exposure to sweeping fires, to prevent which 
they have an efficient fire department, and eighteen public cisterns 
and wells. There are 9 religious societies or congregations, viz. 
one Unitarian Congregationalist, one Orthodox society, two meet- 
ings of Friends, (one attached to the New York yearly meeting, the 

60 



446 



NANTUCKET. 



Other to that of New England,) one Methodist Episcopal, one Re- 
formed Methodist, one Episcopal, and two for colored persons, one 
of them Baptist, the other denominated Zion's Church. Previous 
to 1827, very little was done by the town in their corporate capa- 
city for the support of schools. Since that period much has been 
effected ; there are at present two large grammar and four primary 
schools, at which are taught about 800 scholars. The Coffin 
School was incorporated in 1827. This institution originated with 
Admiral Sir Isaac Cofhn, of the British navy, who visited the 
island in 1826. He found that a large part of the inhabitants 
were more or less remotely related to him. Having expressed a 
desire to confer on his kindred some mark of his attaclmient, it 
was suggested that the establishment of a school would be the 
means of most permanent good to his relatives ; it immediately met 
his approbation. He accordingly authorized the late William Cof- 
fin, Esq., to purchase a building for a school, and shortly after 
funded for its support two thousand five hundred pounds sterling. 




AthencEum, at Nantucket. 

The Nantucket Athenasum was incorporated in 1834, and is an 
institution of much promise ; it has a library of more than two 
thousand volumes, and is rapidly increasing. The museum con- 
nected with the institution contains a large number of curiosities, 
consisting chiefly of weapons, dresses, and utensils of the islands 
in the Pacific Ocean. 

The island of Nantucket is mostly of a sandy soil, and almost 
entirely destitute of trees and shrubbery, and a great part of the 
island is a naked plain. The south part is a plain, which is not 
more than 25 feet above the level of the sea. On the north part 
the land rises into hills, which are 40 feet in height. The most 
elevated spot is Sancoty Head, which is 80 feet high. The best 
land is round the harbor, particularly on the south-east quarter. 

The village of Siasronset is situated at the south-east extremity 
of the island, and contains about 70 houses. The cod-fishery 



NANTUCKET. 447 

was carried on there a few years since, but of late it has 
been nearly relinquished. The houses, with few exceptions, are 
occupied only in the warm season. The village is compactly built 
on a level grass plat, near the edge of a steep cliff; the land rises 
in the rear so as to cut off a view of the town of Nantucket. This 
place presents uncommon attractions in the warm season for inva- 
lids. It has a fine bracing air and excellent water. In front of 
the village " the eye rests on a broad expanse of the Atlantic, and 
below, the surf, rolling and breaking, gives animation to the scenes 
by day, and lulls to repose by night. . . . From a neighboring emi- 
nence, called Sancoty Head, the eye commands almost the entire 
horizon. In the distant west is seen the town and shipping ; . . . . 
a view from this place, at a clear sunset, can hardly be surpassed 
in beauty and grandeur. The rich coloring of the sky, retiected 
by the distant waters, the distinct outlines of the town with its 
steeples and busy wind-mills, the repose of the surrounding plains, 
contrasted with the gloom which broods over the rolling and roar- 
ing ocean in the rear, give rise to sensations which can be felt but 
not described."* Blue and yellow clay is found on the island, and 
also good iron ore. 

The original right of Nantucket was obtained by Thomas Mayhew of James Forrett, 
agent of William Earl of Sterling, in 1641, at New York. In May, 1660, Wanach- 
mamak and Nickanoose, head sachems of Nantucket, sold to Thomas Mayhew and 
others the land lying from the west end of the island to a pond called Wagutaquab, 
and from that pond upon a straight line unto a pond situate upon Monnumoy Creek, 
and from the north-west corner of the pond to the sea. This territory includes the 
town. The first Englishman who settled at Nantucket was Thomas Macy, in 1659. 
He removed with his family from Salisbury, in the county of Essex, to Madakit Har- 
bor, at the west end of the island. Soon after there went from Martha's Vineyard 
Edward Starbuck, James Coffin, and John Daget to the island for the sake of gunning, 
and lived with him as boarders. The following is a list of the first proprietors to whom 
the island was granted by Gov. Mayhew, in 1659 : 

Thomas Mayhew, Thomas Look, Stephen Greenleaf, Josepli Coleman, 

John Smith, Thomas Bernard, Tristram Coffin, Jr., WiUiam Worth, 

Tristram Coffin, Eobert Bernard, John Swain, Peter Folger, 

Nathaniel Starbuck, Peter Coffin, Thomas Coleman, Eleazer Folger, 

Thomas Macy, James Coffin, John Bishop, John Gardner, 

Edward Starbuck, Christopher Hussey, Richard Gardner, Samuel Stretor, 

Richard Swaine, Robert Pike, Joseph Gardner, Nathaniel Wier. 

Many of these proprietors moved to the island in 1660. At a meeting of the proprie- 
tors, held at Nantucket, in 1661, it was determined "that each man of the owners 
should have liberty to choose his house lots at any place not before taken up, and each 
house lot should contain 60 rods square." At first the settlers located themselves at the 
west end of the island. In l(i71, a patent was granted, confirming the land to the pro- 
prietors, by Francis Lovelace, governor of New York. It was incorporated a town by 
the name of Sherburne in 1687, and as a county in 1695. 

At the time of the settlement by the English, there were nearly 3,000 Indians on the 
island. They were divided into two tribes, one at the west and the other at the east 
end. The western tribe is supposed to have found its way thither from the main by 
the way of Martha's Vineyard, and the eastern to have crossed the sound from the 
southern shore of Barnstable county. Concerning the discovery of Nantucket by the 
Indians, they had the following fabulous tradition, which was related to the early 
English settlers. 

* Nantucket shoals stretch away to the south-east of the island, 45 miles in -wndth, to 
the distance of 50 miles, and are a dangerous place for vessels unacquainted with the 
coast. Very many vessels have been wrecked and lost on them in former years. 



448 NANTUCKET. 

In former times, a great many moons ago, a bird, extraordinary for its size, used 
often to visit tVie south shore of Cape Cod, and carry from thence in its talons a vast 
number of small children. Maushope, who was an Indian giant, as fame reports, re 
sided in these parts. Enraged at the havoc among the children, he on a certain time 
waded into the sea in pursuit of the bird, till he had crossed the sound and reached 
Nantucket. Before Maushope forded the sound, the island was unknown to the red 
men. Maushope found the bones of the children in a heap, under a large tree. He 
then, wishing to smoke a pipe, ransacked the island for tobacco, but finding none, he 
tilled his pipe with poke, a weed which the Indians sometimes used as a substitute. 
Ever since the above memorable events, fogs have been frequent at Nantucket and on 
the Cape. In allusion to this tradition, when the aborigines observed a fog rising, they 
would say, " There comes old Maushope's smoke."* This tradition has been related in 
another way : that an eagle having seized and carried off a papoose, the parents 
Ibllowed him in their canoe till they came to Nantucket, where they found the bones of 
their child, dropped by the eagle. There is another Indian tradition that Nantucket 
was formed by Maushope, by emptying the ashes from his pipe after he had done 
smoking. — The two tribes on the island were hostile to each other. Tradition has pre- 
served a pleasing instance of the effect of love. The western tribe having determined 
to surprise and attack the eastern tribe, a young man of the former, whose mistress 
belonged to the latter, being anxious for her safety, as soon as he was concealed by the 
shades of night, ran to the beach, flew along the shore below the limit of high water, 
saw his mistress a moment, gave the alarm, and returned by the same route before 
day-break ; the rising tide washed away the traces of his feet. The next morning he 
accompanied the other warriors of the tribe to the attack : the enemy M'as found pre- 
pared, and no impression could be made on them. He remained undetected till, seve- 
ral years after, peace being restored between the two tribes, and the young man having 
married the girl, the truth came to light. 

Soon after the English had settled on the island, attempts were made to convert 
the Indians to the faiTh of the gospel, and in a course of years all of them became 
nominal Christians. They were, during every period, generally friendly to the Eng- 
lish, who, though they were sometimes alarmed, never experienced any thing from 
them really hostile. In 1665, King Philip came to this island to kill an Indian, whose 
name was John Gill. He landed at the west end, intending to travel along the shore, 
under the bank, undiscovered, to the east part of the island, where John lived. But an 
Indian, happening to discover his plan, ran and gave John word, in consequence of 
which John ran to the town, and got Thomas Macy to conceal him. John's crime was 
speaking evil the name of the dead, who was supposed to be one of King Philip's near 
connections ; for the Indians had a custom that no one should speak reproachfully of 
the dead. The English held a parley with Philip, and all the money which they were 
able to collect at that time was barely sufficient to satisfy him for John's life. 

These Indians had a singular way of punishing their children and servants. It was 
laying them on their backs, and putting a knee on each arm ; then, holding back the 
boy's head, by laying hold of the hair, they ejected a decoction of bayberry-root bark 
from their mouths into the noses of the boys. This was repeated a number of times, 
till the boys were near strangled. After a while, however, they would recover. This 
mode of punishment was called by the Indians medom-humar, or great punishment. 

The whale fishery began here m 1690. One Ichabod Paddock 
came from Cape Cod to instruct the people in the art of killing 
whales in boats from the shore. This business flourished till 
about the year 1760, when the whales appear generally to have 
left the coast. In 1718 the inhabitants began to pursue whales on 
the ocean, in small sloops and schooners, of about from 30 to 50 
tons. The blubber was brought home and tried or boiled in try- 
houses. In a few years after, vessels of a larger burthen were 
employed, and the oil boiled out in try- works at sea. 

" At the breaking out of the Revolution, in 1775, Nantucket had 150 vessels, and 
employed in them 2,200 men, on whaling voyages. They took annually about 30,000 

♦ Col. Mass. Hist. Soc. vol. v. first series, p. 57. 



NANTUCKET. 449 

barrels of oil. The peculiar interests of the island suffered severely by the war, at the 
close of which the number of whaling vessels was reduced to 30. The enterprise of 
the people received another check in the late war, but has since again restored the 
business of the island to its accustomed channels and extent. In 1822, there belonged 
to the town 88 whaling vessels, averaging 300 tons each. 

" The Nantucket whalemen now extend their voyages to the coast of Brazil in South 
America, and frequently to the Pacific Ocean, and are often absent two or three years. 
The vessels designed for these distant voyages are generally navigated by 20 or 30 men. 
The terras on which the men are employed are somewhat peculiar. The owners of 
the vessel and its appurtenances receive a certain stipulated part out of the profits of 
the voyage, and the remainder of the proceeds is divided among the officers and seamen, 
according to certain rules previously known and understood by all parties. So that if 
the vessel meets with great success, the pay of the inen, who navigate it, will be high ; 
but if the vessel have less success, their pay will be proportionably less. 

" Whales are sometimes found 200 feet in length, but generally are less than half 
that size. These monstrous animals are attacked by only six or eight men in an open 
boat. When in the region frequented by whales, the crew of the vessel in pursuit of 
them keep a sharp look-out, with all things ready for an attack. The instant a whale 
is discovered upon the surface of the water, a boat is manned for the pursuit. One 
man, the most daring and dexterous in the business, is armed with a harpoon, an in- 
strument five or six feet long, with a barbed point. He stands up, with bis weapon in 
his hand, in the bow of the boat, while the others row, under his direction, with all pos- 
sible despatch toward the enemy, and usually to within eight or ten yards of him. The 
harpooner, having taken his position to the best advantage, and made all things ready 
for the blow, hurls his weapon with all his strength, and aims to strike some part of the 
whale least protected by his thick skin. This is a moment of intense interest, for the 
success of a whole voyage may essentially depend upon a single stroke of the harpoon. 
It is also a moment of imminent danger ; for one blow from the tail of the wounded 
and enraged animal might upset the boat and dash it into a thousand pieces. The 
men, therefore, hastily withdraw a short distance from their danger, and wait the 
effects of their first onset. 

" As soon as the whale becomes sensible of his wound, he dives into the water with 
incredible velocity for so heavy and unwieldy an animal, carrying the harpoon, held 
fast in his wound by its barbed point. Several hundred fathoms of line, fastened at 
one end to the harpoon and the other attached to the boat, are frequently run out be- 
fore the whale is exhausted and obliged to return to the top of the water for air. The 
harpooner stands ready to attack him again the moment he appears, and fastens anoth- 
er weapon in some part of his body. The whale again dives for a short time, and re- 
turns only to receive a new attack. At length, exhausted by his wounds and the loss 
of blood, which colors the water for some distance around him, he yields to his con- 
querors. He is then towed by the boat to the vessel, which keeps as near as possible 
to the scene of the battle, the crew witnessing with the deepest interest its progress and 
result. Several days are then spent in dissecting the prize and disposing of the valua- 
ble parts, when the crew are ready for a new and similar exploit. The profits of a 
voyage have frequently been from §30,000 to $50,000, and sometimes more." 

The following notice of Peter Folger, one of the first settlers of 
the island, is taken from " a short Journal of Nantucket, by Zach- 
eus Macy," in the Collections of the Massachusetts Historical So- 
ciety, vol. iii. page 159. 

"When the English first came to Nantucket, they appointed 5 men to divide and lay 
out 20 acres of house lot land to every share, and Peter Folger was one of the five. 
But it appears by the records, that any 3 of the .5 might do the business, provided the 
said Peter Folger was one of them, from which it is plain the people saw something in 
him superior to others. It is observable also that the old deeds from the Indian sa- 
chems were examined by Peter Folger, and he wrote at the bottom of the deed and sign- 
ed it in addition to the signature of the justice ; for he understood and could speak the 
Indian tongue. Thus it is evident that both the English and the Indian had a great 
esteem for Peter Folger, who was grandfather to the famous Benjamin Franklin, the 
Printer, Statesman and Philosopher. His mother was the daughter of Peter Folger, and 
U seems that the whole of North America prides itself as much in Benjamin Franklin 
«s the people of Nantucket did in his grandfather, Peter Folger." 



450 B E L I, I N G H A M . 

NORFOLK COUNTY. 

This comity was incorporated in 1793, previous to which time 
It formed a part of Suffolk county. This name was formerly ap- 
plied to a county composed of the towns in this state north of the 
Mcrrimac, with others in New Hampshire. After the separation 
of the states by a line three miles north of the Merrimac, the towns 
in this state were annexed to the county of Essex. The principal 
streams are Charles and Neponset rivers, with their branches. 
Much of the surface of Norfolk is broken and uneven, but no part 
can be considered mountainous. The ridges called the Blue Hills 
are the most noted elevations. Much of the soil is strong and rocky. 
That part of this county in the vicinity of Boston is generally in a 
high state of cultivation, as there is a good market for agricultural 
productions in the capital. The manufacture of boots and shoes 
is an important branch of business in this county. In 1S37, there 
were 5,2.59 persons engaged in this manufacture. The following 
is a list of the towns, which are 22 in number. 

Bellingham, Dorchester, Milton, Stoughton, 

Braintree, Dover, Needham, Walpole, 

Brookline, Foxborough, Quincy, Weymouth, 

Canton, Franklin, Randolph, Wrentham. 

Cohasset, Med field, Roxbury, 

Dedham, Medway, Sharon, 

In 1820, the population of this county was 36,471 ; in 1830, it 
was 41,901 ; in 1837, it was 50,399. 



BELLINGHAM. 



This town was set off from Dedham, and incorporated as a town 
in 1719. Rev. .Jonathan Mills was ordained in 1727 over a Con- 
gregational church which had been previously formed in this place. 
He continued here about ten years, though not in the most harmo- 
nious manner, and was dismissed in 1737. He retired to Boston, 
where he died, in 1773. The people had occasional preaching after 
the dismissal of Mr. Mills, till 1774, when the meeting-house was 
demolished. For about the period of sixty years past, no Congre- 
gational minister has statedly held meetings in the town. The 
Congregational church has long been extinct. Some families of 
this order, however, are religiously associated with the west parish 
in Medway. 

In the center of the town there are 2 churches, and 10 or 12 
dwelling-houses. Distance, 5 miles from Mendon, 18 from Ded- 
ham, and 28 from Boston. Population, 1,159. In 1837, there were 
2 cotton mills, 1,672 spindles ; 427,470 yards of cotton goods were 
manufactured, valued at $35,1 10 25 ; males employed, 20; females, 
34: one woollen mill, 2 sets of machinery ; 24,000 yards of cloth 



BROOKLINB. 461 

were manufactured, valued at $62,000. There were 14,570 pairs 
of boots and 220 pairs of shoes manufactured, vakied at $28,077; 
straw bonnets manufactured, 1,450, vahied at $2,650. 



BRAIN TREE 



This town formerly included Quincy and Randolph, and was at 
first called Mount Wollaston, and is one of the most ancient places 
in the state, the first settlement being made in the town as early 
as 1625. The ancient history of Braintree now properly comes 
under the head of Quincy, as Mount Wollaston, the place where 
the first settlement was made, is within the limits of that town. 
Braintree was incorporated in 1640, Quincy in 1792. 

The soil of this township, though not very fertile, is strong, and 
well repays cultivation. The Maniquot river, after passing through 
this town and affording many mill sites, meets the tide-waters of 
Weymouth Fore river at Braintree landing. In the town are 
manufactories of cotton, satinet, shovels, paper, nails, and choco- 
late ; large quantities of shoes are made here. There is excellent 
granite found here, and large quantities are exported ; ship-build- 
ing is also carried on to some extent. There are 3 churches, one 
of which is Unitarian. On the eastern line of the town is situated 
the flourishing settlement of Weymouth village ; about one third of 
it lies within the limits of this town. A view of this village is given 
in the account of Weymouth. (See Weymo7/th.) Population, 
2,237. Distance, 12 miles S. E. of Dedham, and 10 southerly from 
Boston. In 1837, there were 65,604 pairs of boots, 71,117 pairs 
of shoes, manufactured in this town, the value of which was 
$202,363 03; males employed, 357; females, 265. There were 
two paper-mills ; stock manufactured, 182 tons ; value of paper, 
$25,000; one nail factory; nails manufactiired, 215 tons; value of 
nails manufactured, $33,460 ; hands employed, 19 ; value of cotton 
gins manufactured, $15,000; hands employed, 30. 

" A survey between the tide- waters of this town and those of 
Taunton river, to unite Massachusetts and Narragansett bays by 
a ship canal, was commenced by the United States government 
in 1827. From the tide lock at Somerset, 13 miles below Taunton, 
the distance is 36 miles. The summit level between the bays is 
at Howard's meadow, in Randolph, 134 feet above high-water 
mark at Braintree or Weymouth landing. A ship canal in this 
direction, or one across Cape Cod at Sandwich, would save many 
lives and a vast amount of property." — Hayioai-d' s Massachusetts 
Directory. 



BROOKLINE 



This town, before its incorporation in 1705, belonged to Boston, 
ftom which it was separated by a bay formed by Charles river. 



452 B R K L 

Wood, the author of "New England's Prospect," in describing 
Boston and other places in the vicinity, in 1633, says — 

"The inhabitants of this place, [Boston] for their enlargement, have taken to them- 
selves farm-houses in a place called Muddy River, [Brookline] two miles from the 
town, where there is good ground, large timber, and store of marsh land and meadow. 
In this place they keep their swine and other cattle in the summer, whilst the com is 
in the ground at Boston, and bring them to tow^n in the winter." As early as 1686, 
the inhabitants at Muddy River had obtained an order that said hamlet should thence 
forth be free from paying taxes to the town of Boston, and to have the privilege of an- 
nually choosing three men to manage their affairs. The conditions were, that they 
should bear their own expenses, erect a school-house, and maintain a reading and writ- 
ing master. After the overthrow of Andross, the town of Boston disannulled the above 
order, and rigorously exercised over them all the authority they possessed. After some 
considerable opposition, a petition, signed by 32 freeholders, was presented to the legis- 
lature in 1705, for a separation from Boston. The petition was granted, and the place 
was incorporated as a distinct town by the name of Brookline. " It is supposed that 
this name was adopted from the circumstance that Smelt brook is a boundary between 
that town and Cambridge, and that another brook, which falls into Muddy river, is a 
boundary between it and Roxbury." 

The hills and woodlands of Brookline form a considerable part 
of the scenery presented to the view from the west of Boston com- 
mon. The town contains some of the finest country seats and 
best managed lands which adorn the environs of Boston. It is 5 
miles northerly from Dedham, and 5 W. of Boston. Population, 
1,083. There are 2 churches, 1 Congregational and 1 Baptist. A 
direct communication with Boston is effected by the construction 
of an immense mill-dam, a mile and a half in length, and 100 feet 
in the widest and 50 feet in the narrowest part, built with walls 
of stone, filled up compactly with gravel and other materials, at an 
enormous expense. It is water-tight, and raised three or four feet 
above high-water mark. This " Westei-n Avenue" as it is called, 
was opened for passengers July 2, 1821. There was a splendid 
ceremony on the occasion. A cavalcade of citizens, under the direc- 
tion of Adj. Gen. Wm. H. Sumner, at an early hour entered the 
town over the dam, and were welcomed on the Boston side by the 
inhabitants. Several of the revolutionary forts may be traced in 
this town by some slight remains ; and the site of one of the an- 
cient Indian forts, built by the natives before the settlement by the 
English, is yet discernible, on what is called Se wall's farm. 

Zabdiel Boylston, F. R. S., an eminent physician, was a native 
of this town, born in 1680, and died in this town in 1766. He is 
distinguished as being the first who introduced the inoculation of 
the small-pox into America. 

"The inoculation of small-pox was first performed in the English dominions iu 
April, 1721, upon a daughter of the celebrated Lady M. W. Montague, who had be- 
come acquainted with inoculation as practised by Turkish women, during her residence 
in Constantinople. 

" About this time Dr. Zabdiel Boylston, of Boston, was induced to adopt the same 
expedient, from reading an account of inoculation, and made his first experiment by 
inoculating his only son and two negro serv^ants, on the 27th of June, 1721. Probably 
there never was greater opposition to any measure of real public utility than was ex- 
hibited on this occasion. Dr. Boylston was execrated and persecuted as a murderer, 
assaulted in the streets, and loaded with every species of abuse. His house was at- 
tacked with violence, so that neither himself nor his family could feel secure in it. At 



CANTON. 453 

one time he remained fourteen days in a secret apartment of his own house, unknown 
to any of his family except his wife. The enraged inhabitants patrolled the town in 
parties, with halters in their hands, threatening to hang him on the nearest tree, and 
repeatedly entered his house in search of him during his concealment. Such was the 
madness of the multitude, that, even after the excitement had in some measure subsid- 
ed. Dr. Boylston only ventured to visit his patients at midnight, and then in disguise. 
He had also to encounter violent opposition from most of the members of his own pro- 
fession, and notwithstanding he invited them all to visit his patients, and judge for 
themselves, received nothing but threats and insults in reply. Indeed, many sober, 
pious people were deliberately of opinion, when inoculation was first commenced, that, 
should any of his patients die, the doctor ought to be capitally indicted. He was re- 
peatedly summoned before the selectmen of Boston, and received their reprehension. 
His only friends were Dr. Cotton Slather and other clergymen, most of whom became 
zealous advocates for the new practice, and consequently drew upon themselves much 
odium from the populace. Some of them received personal injury ; others were insult- 
ed in the streets, and were hardly safe in their own dwellings ; nor were their services 
acceptable on Sunday to their respective audiences. 

" A bill for prohibiting the practice of inoculation, under severe penalties, was 
brought before the legislature of Massachusetts, and actually passed the house of rep 
resentatives, but some doubts existing in the senate, it failed to become a law. 

"Dr. Boylston Hved to see the cause he espoused triumphant, and it's utility gene- 
rally appreciated. So prone are mankind to vacillate from one extreme to the other 
that, on a subsequent appearance of the small-pox in Boston, in the year 1792, the 
whole town was inoculated in three, days, to appease the infatuation of the inhabitants 
respecting the danger apprehended from this deadly pestilence. Persons were inocu- 
lated indiscriminately, to the number of 9,152 ; and such was the hurry and confusion 
with which it was done, and such the impossibility of rendering proper assistance and 
attention to so large a number, that 165 deaths were the consequence." 



CANTON 



Canton was originally the south precinct of Dorchester, called 
Dorchester village; it was incorporated in 1797. The first church 
was embodied here in the year 1717, and Rev. Joseph Morse was 
ordained its minister the same year. He had preached in the 
village, previous to his ordination, nearly eleven years. He was 
succeeded by Rev. Samuel Dunbar, in 1727. Mr. Dunbar Avas a 
warm and decided friend to the liberties of his country. In 175.5, 
he was chaplain to Col. Brown's regiment, in the expedition 
against Croum Point. " His zeal and firmness in the American 
Revolution contributed not a little to support the hopes and sus- 
tain the sinking spirits of his people, when clouds and darkness 
shrouded our prospects." He died in 1783, and was succeeded by 
Rev. Zachariah Howard, who was settled in 1786. The Rev. 
William Harlow was installed over the second church in 1829, 
resigned the same year. 

The following is a westerly view of the viaduct in this town, on 
which passes the Boston and Providence railroad. It is constructed 
of granite, and is 600 feet in length, 63 feet above the foundation, 
on 6 arches, with a succession of arches at the top. It is an 
admirable piece of workmanship, and cost the company about 
$80,000. On the right of the engraving is seen the northern 
extremity of the stone factory, a large establishment for the manu- 
facture of cassimeres, which, when in full operation, employs be- 

61 



454 



CO HASS ET 




South-mesteni view of Canton Viaduct. 

tween 300 and 400 hands. The copper works of Mr. Revere, near 
the above, is an extensive estabhshment ; all kinds of copper are 
manufactured. There are also other large manufacturing estab- 
lishments in the limits of the town. There are 4 churches (2 
Congregational, 1 Baptist, and 1 Methodist) and a bank, the 
"Neponset Bank." Population, 2,185. Since 1830, the popula- 
tion has increased one third. Distance, 5 miles from Dedham, 18 
from Taunton, and 15 from Boston. 

In 1837, there was 1 woollen mill, 14 sets of machinery; wool 
consumed, 300,000 lbs. ; cloth manufactured, 254,000 yards, valued 
at $250,000 ; males employed, 125 ; females, 125. One cotton mill ; 
1,560 spindles ; 463,547 yards of cotton goods were manufactured. 
There were 8 furnaces for the manufacture of copper; 1,500,000 
lbs. of copper were manufactured; value estimated, $400,000; 
forty hands were employed; one forge; "shapes" manufactured, 
129 tons, value, $21,330 ; fifty hands were employed in the manu- 
facture of hoes and coarse cutlery ; capital invested, $80,000. Two 
rolling mills, 1 cotton wicking mill, 1 cotton thread mill, and 
some other manufacturing establishments, were in operation. 



COHASSET. 

This town was originally a part of Hingham; it was incorpo- 
rated in 1770. The first minister of Cohasset was Rev. Nehemiah 
Hobart, the grandson of Rev. Peter Hobart, the first minister of 
Hingham. He was ordained in 1721, and continued in the minis- 
try till his death, in 1740. His successor was Rev. John Fowle, 
who continued here about thirteen years. Rev, John Brown was 
the next minister, who was settled here in 1747, and died in 1791. 
His successor was Mr. Shaw, who Avas in the ministry here about 




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D E D H A M . 465 

four years. The Rev. Jacob Flint, the next minister, was settled 
here in 1798. A Trinitarian church was built here in 1826, and 
Rev. Aaron Picket was installed the first pastor. 

This town is noted for its rocky coasts, and for the numerous 
shipwrecks which have taken place on its borders. Cohasset 
rock, which consists of several small islands and sunken rocks, 
lies about three miles north-east of the harbor ; they have proved 
fatal to many vessels. This town has become quite a place of 
resort for citizens and strangers, in summer months, to enjoy the 
marine scenery and sea air. In 1837, there were 36 vessels em- 
ployed in the cod and mackerel fishery, the tonnage of which was 
2,284 ; codfish caught, 750 quintals, valued at .$2,2.50 ; mackerel 
caught, 11,700 barrels, value, $73,286; hands employed, 324. 
In five years preceding 1837, there were 17 vessels built, the ton- 
nage of which was 2,765, valued at .$110,600. Population, 1,331. 
Distance, 6 miles from Hingham, and about 16 miles to Boston by 
water. 



DEDHAM 



The settlement of this town was commenced in 1635. In that 
year, the general court, then sitting at Newtown, (now Cambridge,) 
granted a tract of land south of Charles river to 12 men. The 
next year 19 persons, including the first 12, petitioned the general 
court for an additional grant, lying on both sides of Charles river, 
which was made, agreeably to this petition. The last-mentioned 
grant included the territory of the present town of Dedham, and 
of a number of other towns in the vicinity. The first recorded 
public meeting was on the 15th of August, 1636, at which were 
present 18 persons. These adopted a covenant, by which each 
individual bound himself " to give information concerning any per- 
son who applied for admission, to submit to such fines as might be 
imposed for violation of rules, and to obey all such bye-laws 
and regulations as the inhabitants shall judge necessary for the 
management of their temporal aftairs, for religion, and for loving 
society." 

The ETovernment of the town was delegated by the freemen to 7 men, who were 
to be chosen annually. These 7 men met monthly, for many years, made many 
necessary bye-laWs, which were recorded in the records of the to^vn. Concerning the 
appropriation of the land, each man was provided with a lot of 12 acres if married, 
and S acres if unmarried ; this to begin with. The after grants seem to have been 
made according to the necessities of members, or as a reward for services performed. 
The number of persons in a family was also made a rule by which to divide the 
lands ; quality, rank or desert and usefulness in the church or commonwealth was also 
a rule considerable in the apportionment. 

In a petition to the general court the inhabitants requested that the town might be 
called Contentment ; which name is written over the record of the first several meet- 
ings. It would seem that the word well expresses the leading motives of the first 24 
settlers in coming into this town. They were soon, however, associated with men of 
somewhat a difierent and higher character. The celebrated John Rogers, of Dedham, 
in England, had been forbidden to preach before the first settlers came to this country. 
Many of his people emigrated and numbers settled in this place. From that circum- 



456 D E D H A M . 

Stance, It may reasonably be inferred that the general court gave to the town the nam* 
of Dedham. The first settlers were more immediately from Watertown. They were 
as follows, viz. : 

Edward AUyne, John Kingsbury, Lambert Genere, Francis Austin, 

Abraham Shaw, John Dwite, Nicholas Phillips, John Rogers, 

Samuel Morse, John Cooledge, Ralph Shepard, Joseph Shaw, 

Phileman Dalton, Richard Ewed, John Gay, William Bearstowe 

Ezekiel HoUiman, John Howard, Thomas Bartleet, 

In July, 1637, John AUin and Eleazer Lusher, and ten other persons, came to Ded 
ham, bringing recommendations, and were at the same time admitted freemen. These 
12 persons gave a more decided character to the whole company. The following is 
the list of freemen who had been admitted into Dedham previous to 1647. 

Mr. John AUin, Edward Kempe, Samuel Morse, George Barber, 

Mr. Timothy Dalton, John Leuson, Nicholas Phillips, Robert Onion, 

Mr. Thomas Carter, John Dwight, John Morse, Robert Feashe, 

Mr. Ralph Wheelock, Henry Smith, John Page, John Gay, 

Mr. John Hunting, John Rogers, Michael Powell, Lambert Genery, 

Mr. Pruden, John Shawe, Joseph Kingsbury, Samuel Guile, 

Mr. Henry Phillips, Nathan Aldis, deac, Nathaniel Colborne, John Ellis, 

F. Chickering, deac, Daniel Fisher, Timothy Dwight, Daniel Morse, 

Abraham Shaw, Michael Metcalf, Peter Woodward, Thomas Alcoke, 

Edward Allyne, John Bullard, John Baker, John Batchellor, 

John Frayre, Joshua Fisher, Nathaniel Whitmg, Joseph Morse. 

Eleazer Lusher, Ferdinando Adams, Anthony Fisher, 

Robert Hinsdale, Thomas Wight, Andrew Dewing, 

The first settlers located themselves on the margin of the mead- 
ows, near the modern center. Each house-lot consisted of a part 
upland and a part meadow. These lots were laid out in narrow 
parallel slips. It is stated in Worthington's History of Dedham,* 
that in 1664, ninety-five small houses, near each other, were situ- 
ated within a short distance of the place where the court-house 
stands ; the greater part of them east of that place and around 
Dwight's brook. A row of houses stood on the north side of High 
street, as that road was then called which extends from the bridge 
over Dwight's brook westwardly by the court-house. The greater 
number of these houses were built soon after the first settlement 
commenced. Four only of these were valued at £20 ; the greater 
number were worth from 3 to 10 pounds. At the time these houses 
were built, there were but very few carpenters, joiners, or masons 
in the colony. There was no saw-mill in the settlement for many 
years. The only boards which ^could be procured at first were 
those which were sawed by hand. The saw-pits yet to be seen 
denote that boards were sawed in the woods. The necessary ma- 
terials of glass and nails were scarcely to be obtained. These 
houses, therefore, must have been principally constructed by 
farmers, not by mechanics, and have been very rude and incon- 
venient. Most of them were probably covered with thatch roofs. 
By an ordinance of the town, a ladder was ordered to extend from 

* " The History of Dedham from the beginning of its Settlement, in September, 1635, 
to May, 1827, by Erastus Worthington." It is to this work the author is principally 
indebted for the facts in the history of this town. The " Historical Address " of Sam- 
uel F. Haven, Esq., on the second centennial anniversary, in 1836, with notes, it 
also another valuable publication respecting the history of this town 



D E D H A M . 457 

the ground to the chimney, as a substitute for a more perfect fire 
engine. Around these houses nothing was seen but stumps, 
clumsy fences of poles, and an uneven and unsubdued soil. 

Where the meeting-honse of the first parish now stands, there stood for more than 
30 years a low building, 36 feet long and 20 wide, 12 feet high, with a thatched roof, 
and a large ladder resting upon it. This was the first meeting-house. Near by was 
the school-house, standing on an area of 18 feet by 14, and rising to 3 stories ; the 
third story, however, was a watch-house, of small dimensions, and which stood beside 
the ample stone chimney. The spectator there elevated might view the plain, the si.e 
of the present village, then a common plough-field, containing about 200 acres of cleared 
land, partially subdued, yet full of stumps and roots. Around him at a further dis- 
tance were the Aerrf-walks, as the common feeding lands were called, in the language 
of that time. One of these herd-walks was on Dedham Island, north of Charles river, 
and one was on East street, and more fully in view. The other herd-walk was on 
South Plain. The meadows were not yet cleared to any great extent. Beyond these 
herd-walks was a continued wilderness, which was becoming more disagreeable to the 
inhabitants, for the cattle, goats and sheep seem to have allured the wolves to their 
neighborhood. The dense swamps about Wigwam were not yet cleared. The numer- 
ous dogs in the plantation, which were so troublesome to the worshipping assembly, 
were not a suflicient guard against the wolves ; and the killing of these animals was 
encouraged by a considerable bounty. A law of the colony, as well as the dangers of 
the people from Indian assaults, compelled the first settlers to build their houses near 
each other. The necessity of adhering to this law continued more than 50 years. 
But as soon as the inhabitants could live with safety on their farms, houses were built 
in all parts of the present town. In about 70 years' time, the humble village of the 
first settlers had disappeared, and the place was occupied by a few farmers for about 
100 years. When Dedham became the county town, in 1793, the second village was 
begun on the place of the former.* The first school-house in Dedham was built in 
1648. The master's salary until 1695 was £20 ; it was then raised to £25. The 
early settlers at various times made grants of land for the support of schools, and in 
1680, Dr. William Avery gave £60 for a Latin school, but from mismanagement 
these funds were many years ago lost. 

The first settlers early procured a minister, built a meeting- 
house, and performed every other act necessary for the immediate 
establishment of public worship among them. They erected the 
first meeting-house in 1637. The pitts (as the pews are called 
in the records) were 5 feet deep and 4J wide. The elders' seat 
and the deacons' seat were before the pulpit ; the communion-table 
stood before these seats, and was so placed that the people could 
approach it on three sides. This house was pulled down in 1672, 
and one much larger erected on the site of the old one. This 
house had 3 pair of stairs in 3 corners of the interior. Men were 
seated in the galleries on one side, and women on the other ; the 
boys in front. The duty of a tythingman in those days was 
arduous, and he received as much pay for his services, many 
years, as the deputy to the general court. He was obliged to go 
on errands for the elders, whip the dogs out of the meeting-house, 
and prevent disorder among the boys. The business of seating 
persons in these two houses came under the jurisdiction of the 

♦ The first settlers brought with them a number of small hand-mills, with which to 
grind their grain ; the stones of which were about 2 feet in diameter. The stones of 
2 of these hand-mills are stated to be yet remaining in the town. The first water-mill 
in Dedham was built in 1640. In 1664, a saw-mill was built on Neponset river, by 
Joshua Fisher. In 1681, a fulling-mill was built on Mother brook, by Draper and 
Fairbanks. 



458 D E D H A M . 

elders. The greatest tax-payer had the highest seat. This was 
a subject of some difficulty. 

Rev. John AUin (so spelled by him) was the first settled pastor in Dedham. He 
came into the settlement in July, 1637, and immediately began to direct those pro- 
ceedings which laid the foundation of the church, which was gathered in the fall ol 
1638, and over which he was ordained in 1639. He came here, as his records express 
it, in expectation of employment in public work. He had received a liberal education 
in England, but had not been ordained. In forming the church, he required a strict 
scrutiny into the actions and religious affections of each candidate before admission, 
even in those cases where the candidate was a member of another church. This work 
he accomplished in a peaceful manner, ami governed his church with increased repu- 
tation 32 years. Gov. Winthrop says in his Journal, that this church was gathered 
with good approbation. Mr. AUin was greatly esteemed by his church and the inhabit- 
ants, and his influence in the civil and religious aflairs of that day was very exten- 
sive. Cotton Mather says that " he was a man of sweet temper, of a genteel spirit, 
a diligent student, of competent learning, a humble man, and sincere Christian. 
Mather proposes his epitaph, 

Vir sincerus, amans pacis, patiensque laborum, 
Perspicuus, simplex, doctrinse purus amator. 

Mr. Allin died in 1671, and was succeeded by Rev. William Adams, who was 
ordained in 1673. He ministered to the people till his death, in 1685. The next 
pastor was Rev. Joseph Belcher, ordained 1693, died 1723. He was succeeded by 
Rev. Samuel Dexter, who was ordained in 1724 ; he died in 1755. The next pastor 
of this church was Rev. Jason Haven, a native of Framingham, ordained in 175ii. 
After an active and useful life, he died in 1803, and the same year Rev. Joshua Bates 
was ordained. In 1618, he was dismissed for the purpose of taking the presidency of 
Middlebury college, Vt. He was succeeded the same year by the Rev. Alvan Lam- 
son. During Mr. Allin's ministry of 32 years the records do not show any rate 
assessed for his support ; he depended on voluntary contributions and on the liberal 
grants of land from the proprietors. All the successors of Mr. Allin had salaries 
voted them by the town, although the salary was paid voluntarily by the people, with- 
out a tax collector, many years. The following appears to have been tlie recorded 
rule of proceeding on this subject. In case any shall be at some time shortened m 
money, he shall put in for that time a paper, wherein his name, and his day's payment, 
as shall be due, is entered, which paper he shall once within one month take out of the 
deacon's hands, and pay the debt. And every man shall put his money in a paper 
each Lord's day, and his name written therein, and so deliver it into the box. 

The second parish in Dedham was incorporated in Nov. 1730 ; including at that 
time the inhabitants in the west part of the town. The first minister of this society 
was the Rev. Thomas Balch, ordained in 1736. He died in 1774, and in 1776 was 
succeeded by Rev. Jabez Chickering, who continued with the people till his death, in 
1812. Rev. Wm. Cogswell was ordained over this society in 1815. — The third parish 
was formed from the second, being composed of the inhabitants of the west part of 
the town, who settled Rev. Josiah Dwight as their first pastor, in 1735. His pastoral 
relation proved unhappy, and he was dismissed in 1742, and was succeeded, the next 
year, by Rev. Andrew Tyler, who continued with the people till 1772, when he was 
dismissed. The next minister was Rev. Thomas Thatcher, ordained in 1780, died in 
1812. The fourth pastor, Rev. John White, was ordained in 1814. A fourth Congre- 
gational society originated from the first society in 1818, which is known by the name 
of the New Meeting-House society, over whom Rev. Ebenezer Burgess was ordained 
pastor in 1821. 

The Episcopal church in Dedham commenced in 1760. In the year 1768, it came 
under the direction of Rev. William Clark. A small church was then built by a 'few 
persons in Dedham and the neighboring towTis. At the commencement of the Revo- 
lution, Mr. Clark was prosecuted, before the revolutionary tribunal at Boston, for 
directing two loyalists to a place of safety who were in danger from the populace. 
Failing to convict him of any crime, he was about to be acquitted, when he was re- 
quired to swear allegiance to the commonwealth. This he refused to do, and in con- 
sequence was condemned to be transported to foreign parts, and was immediately 
confined in a prison-ship in Boston harbor. Through the influence of Dr. Ames, a 
decided whig, he procured his liberty and a license to go out of the coimtry. After 
he had obtained a small pension from the British government, he resided some time in 
New Brunswick ; but he afierwanls rame to Quincy, wh^re he spent the remainder of 



D E D H A M . 459 

his days. From Mr. Clark's departure to 1791, there was occasional preacning in 
the society through the exertion of Bishop Parker. In 1791, the Rev. William Mon- 
tague came into this church, and became its rector, and continued in that office till 
1818, when he was dismissed. In 1821, Rev. Isaac Boyle was instituted rector, at the 
unanimous request of the members. 

In 1811, a Baptist society, partly in Dedham and partly in Medfield, was incorpo- 
rated, over which Rev. William Gamel was ordained pastor. 

At the time of the first settlement of Dedham, the Indians were not as numerous 
there as in some other places, as those of that neighborhood had been, a year or two 
before, nearly all carried ofi' by the small-pox, and most of those remaining alive 
had probably joined themselves to the tribes whose habitations were at some distance 
to the south or west. Numbers of them, it is supposed, united with the Naticks, a 
company of Indians placed on Charles river, about 10 miles west of the present 
village of Dedham, (and then within the limits of the town,) whom the Rev. John 
Eliot was endeavoring to civilize and convert to Christianity. The settlers of Dedham 
obtained a title to the soil by fair and honorable contract. Very soon after the arrival 
of Gov. Winthrop and his associates, the chieftain, Chickatabot, made a conveyance 
to the English of the country around Boston, including the territory now occupied by 
Dedham, (which was called Tist by the Indians.) After the death of Chickatabot, in 
1633, a committee was appointed to find out such Indians as remembered the bargain. 
This committee obtained a quit claim from Wampatuck, grandson of Chickatatot, in 
which he states that forasmuch as he is informed by several ancient Indians, .... that 
his grandfather did for a good and sufficient consideration convey to the English plant- 
ers the tract of land now called Dedham ; he, therefore, in consideration of that fact 
and of a reasonable sum of money, quit claims to, &;c. This deed, which is long and 
particular, is dated 1685. 

In Sept. 1673, the selectmen received orders from the general 
court to put the town in a posture for war. Upon this " the 
soldiers were frequently trained, the great gun mounted, a barrel 
of powder and other ammunition Avas procured, the people built a 
garrison, and set a watch.'' The fear excited was great, and 
many fled to Boston. Dedham, however, was well situated for 
defence. The town had been built in a compact manner, that it 
might be prepared for Indian hostilities. Little river and Charles 
river on the north would make the savages unwilling to approach 
in that direction. The plain all around Dedham was to a con- 
siderable extent cleared and level, and overlooked by a person in 
the belfry of the new meeting-house. To this circumstance it 
may be owing that none of the parties of Philip made an assault 
on the town. It was doubtless reconnoitred by his spies, and had 
it been unprepared, might have shared the fate of Medfield and 
other places. 

That bloody contest, known as "King Phihp's war," com- 
menced in 1675. The first actual outrage was committed in 
Dedham. A white man shot through the body was found in the 
woods. The circumstance agitated the whole colony. An Indian 
was arrested on suspicion, but whether or not he was executed 
is unknown. As it was the fortune of Dedham to be particu- 
larly connected with the events that immediately led to the break- 
ing out of the war, so it had the honor of an exploit which 
contributed more than any single occurrence, perhaps, next to the 
death of King Philip, to bring it to a close. Pomham, sachem of 
Shaomet, (now Warwick, R. I.,) was probably the only chieftain, 
except Philip, ' possessing sufiicient energy and talent to have 
united the scattered tribe and infused into them his own spirit and 

62 



460 



D E D H A IM 



courage. He was a double traitor. He had quarrelled with Mi- 
antinimo, chief sachem of the Narragansetts, to whom he was 
tributary, and had placed himself under the colonial government 
for protection. When the war began, he joined Philip, and be- 
came, next to him, the most dreaded of the Indian warriors. He 
was slain by a party of Dedham and Medfield people, July 25, 
1676. Fifty of his band were made prisoners, but he, refusing 
to be taken alive, was slain raging like a wild beast. The death 
of Philip, eighteen days after, soon brought this destructive war to 
a close. 

The last of the aborigines in Dedham were Alexander Quabish 
and Sarah his wife. Sarah died in 1774, at the house of Mr. 
.Toseph Wight. She was interred ni the old Indian burial-place, 
about half a mile from Mr. Wight's honse. at the foot of Wigwam 
hill — the last person there deposited. The funeral was attended by 
Rev. Mr. Haven. Alexander died at Natick, or Needham, in 1776. 




Northern view of an ancient Oak, Dedham. 

A large oak tree now stands in East street, in front of Mr. 
Avery's dwelling, which is 16 feet in circumference, near the 
bottom of the trunk, and is doubtless much older than the town. 
By it we are forcibly reminded how strong and stately stood his 
old companions of the forest. This tree is carefully and deservedly 
cherished by its owner. It is stated that $7{) was offered for it for 
timber, to have been used in the construction of the United States 
ship Constitution ; but the proposals were rejected. It is of noble 
growth ; and long may it stand the monarch-tree of Dedham ! The 
drawing for the above engraving was taken in the month of 
April, and of course was seen without its foliage. 

The present village of Dedham is well built, and, including 
Connecticut Corner, contains upwards of 12.5 houses. Nearly all 
of them are two stories in height, and mostly painted white. 
Dedham is the shire town of Norfolk county. The court-house 
is situated on a beautiful green of more than two acres, and siir- 



D E D H A M . 461 

rounded with a railing. This edifice contains an area of 98 feet 
by 48, and has at each end a projection of 10 feet from the main 
body of the building, with a pediment resting on 4 doric pillars of 
granite, which are nearly 21 feet high, and 3 feet 10 inches in 
diameter at the base. The material of the building is hewn, 
white granite, from a quarry 8 miles west of it. This is probably 
the best imitation of the models of antiquity in the country ; in 
which strength, durability, and just proportions are happily uni- 
ted. The architect was Mr. Samuel Willard, of Boston. Near 
the court-house are two Congregational churches, (one of them 
Unitarian,) and 4 near the south-west part of the town, (2 of 
which are Congregational, 1 Episcopal, and 1 Baptist.) The 
Dedham Bank has a capital of ^150,000. Here are 12 stores, 2 
hotels, a fire insurance company, and 3 newspaper presses. There 
are in this town 2 cotton factories, 3 paper-mills, a woollen mill, 
with 7 sets of machinery, which in 1837 manufactured 91,102 
yards of cloth, valued at $204,000 ; males employed, 75 ; females, 
75 ; and 1 establishment for making lead pipe and pumps. A num- 
ber of these are situated on " Mother's Brook," which is an arti- 
ficial canal, of 3^ miles in length, which conducts about one third 
of the waters of Charles river into the Neponset river. This 
canal, as appears by the records of the town, was excavated in 
1639, (only about four years from the commencement of the set- 
tlement,) for the purpose of forming good mill-sites. This is, 
undoubtedly, the Jirsf canal eyer ma,de in the country, and is no 
inconsiderable proof of the energy and wisdom of the early 
planters. In 1837, there were manufactured 7,175 pairs of boots, 
and 18,722 pairs of shoes, valued at $32,483 ; the value of chairs 
and cabinet ware manufactured, $21,250; the value of silk goods 
manufactured, $10,000; value of straw bonnets, $20.000 ; value 
of marble paper and cards, $18,000. Population, 3,532. Dis- 
tance, 26 miles from Taunton, 35 from Worcester, 35 from Ply- 
mouth, 30 from Providence, R. I., and 10 from Boston. 

On the north-west corner of the court-house square, on the 
Boston road from Dedham, is a granite pillar, about five feet in 
height, which was once the pedestal to a column erected in honor 
of William Pitt, Earl of Chatham, and surmounted with his bust. 
The column and bust are now gone, but on two sides of the 
pedestal is the following inscription : 

ON THE NOKTH SIDE. 

The pillar of Liberty erected by the sons of Liberty in this vicinity. 
Laus Deo. Regii et Immunitat m autoribusq. maxime Patronus Pitt qui Rempub. 
rursum evulsit faucibus Orci. 

ON THE WEST SIDE. 

The Pillar of Liberty to the honor of William Pitt, Esqr. and other patriots who 
saved America from impending slavery, and confirmed our most loyal affection to 
King George IIL by procuring a repeal of the Stamp Act, 18th March, 1766. 

Erected here July 22d, 1766, by Dr. Nathaniel Ames, 2d, Col. Ebenezer Battle, 
Major Abijah Draper, and other patriots friendly to the Rights of the Colooies at 
that day. 

Replaced by the Citizens July 4, 1823. 



462 D E D H A M . 

In all the wars in which the country has been engaged, Dedham 
has furnished its full proportion of money and soldiers. In King 
Philip's war (as already mentioned) and the two French wars, 
the town lost a good number of men, who died of sickness in the 
camp or fell in battle. A number from the town engaged in the 
expedition against Havana, none of whom returned, and a con- 
siderable number served at the long and memorable siege of 
Louisburg, Cape Breton. At the commencement of the Revolu- 
tion the inhabitants were unanimously opposed to the oppressive 
measures of the British ministry. Town meetings were frequently 
held, and many patriotic resolutions are found on the records. In 
Jan. 1774, the town voted, " that they heard, with infinite pleasure 
the determination of other colonies to prevent tea from being used 
to enlarge the British revenue in the colonies ; and as so many 
political evils are brought about by the imreasonable liking to tea, 
and it is also so baneful to the human constitution, that if any 
shall continue to use it, while the act creating a duty thereon is in 
force, we shall consider it as a flagrant proof of their hostility to 
the liberties of the country and of their own stupidity." At the 
reception of the news of the Lexington massacre, all the militia 
of the town forthwith repaired to the scene of action. In the war 
which succeeded, the town furnished upwards of 100 men, who 
served either in the regular continental army, or who in the state 
service performed military duty in one or more distant campaigns. 

Of the many eminent men who have lived in Dedham, are the following : Major 
Ekazer Lusher, came into the town with Mr. AUin, and maintained an eminent rank 
among the founders of the town, directing and taking the lead in all the most impor- 
tant affairs of the plantation. He was a representative to the general court, and a 
number of years, from 1662, an assistant. The foUoAving couplet was frequently 
repeated by the generation which immediately succeeded him. 

" When Lusher was in office, all things went well, 
But how they go since, it shames us to tell." 

Capt. Daniel Fisher, one of the first settlers, was much employed in public business, 
in the several offices of deputy to the general court, speaker of that assembly, and assist- 
ant, in which office he died. He was a hater of tyranny, and was one of the four 
members of the general court against whom Randolph, the agent of James H. in the 
colony, exhibited articles of high misdemeanor to the lords in council. Capt. Daniel 
Fisher, 2d, inherited the spirit of his father, and was also much employed in the 
various affairs of the town. When Sir Edmund Andross M'as seized by the Bostonians 
on Fort Hill, he surrendered and went unarmed to Mr. Usher's house, where he re- 
mained under guard for some hours. When the news of this event reached Dedham, 
Capt. Fisher instantly set out for Boston, and came rushing in with the country 
people, who were in such a rage and heat as to make all tremble. Nothing would 
satisfy the country party but binding the governor with cords, and carrying him to a 
more safe place. Soon was Capt. Fisher seen among the crowd, leading the pale and 
trembling Sir Edmund by the collar of his coat back to Fort Hill. History has in- 
formed us of this incident in that revolution, but never told who took the lead of the 
country people, and who had the honor of leading the proud representative of a Stuart 
prince, the oppressor of the colony, through the angry crowd, and placing him in safe 
custody at the fort. 

The Hon. Fisher Awes^ LL. Z>., was a native of this town. 
This civilian, eminent for his talents and oratory, graduated at 
Harvard college, in 1774. He not long afterwards studied law in 



DORCHESTEK. 463 

Boston. The affairs of the Revohition drew his attention to Doli- 
tics, and he became conspicuous by his speeches in the convention 
of his native state, on the adoption of the federal constitution. He 
was chosen a member of the first congress, after the organization 
of the general government in 17S9, and for eight successive years 
was one of the most dis'tinguished members of that body. He 
held the first rank among his countrymen and contemporaries, in 
strength and splendor of endowments, lofty eloquence, a profound 
acquaintance with the science of government, and an enlightened 
and ardent patriotism. His health then failed, and he withdrew 
from public life. The lustre of his character, however, continued 
undiminished. His retirement wrts adorned by uncommon amia- 
'biUty, modesty, and simplicity of manners, and the virtues of an 
enhghtened and exemplary Christian. He died July 4th, 1808. 
His writings, prefaced by a memoir of his life, were published in 
one volume 8vo. 1809. — Lord's Lempriere^ s Diet 



DORCHESTER, 



This town was one of the oldest in the old Massachusetts colo- 
ny, it being settled and incorporated in 1630. Its original limits 
were very extensive, comprehending the present towns of Dorches- 
ter, Milton, Stoughton, Sharon, Canton and Foxborough. In the 
beginning of 1630, a Congregational church was gathered at 
Plymouth, England, of persons who intended to come to North 
America, in order to enjoy civil and religious privileges. After a 
day of fasting and prayer, they chose Rev. .John Warham, a cele- 
brated preacher at Exeter, and Rev. John Maverick, to accompany 
them as their ministers. They set sail on March 20th, and arrived 
in the Mary and John at Nantasket on May 30th, where Captain 
Squeb, the master of the vessel, put them on shore, notwithstand- 
ing his engagement was to bring them up Charles river. Here 
they were "left in a forlorn wilderness, destitute of any habi- 
tation, and most other necessaries of life." Several of the com- 
pany liaving procured a boat, they proceeded to Charlestown, 
where they found several wigwams, a few English people, and 
one house with an old planter, who could speak the Indian lan- 
guage. Ascending Charles river, until it became narrow and 
shallow, they landed their goods " at a well watered place," with 
much labor, " the bank being steep." This place, according to 
tradition, was in Watertown, near where the U. S. Arsenal now 
stands. At night they had notice that 300 Indians were encamped 
near them ; being alarmed, they sent their interpreter to inform the 
Indians of their pacific intentions, and to request that they would 
not molest them. The whole number of the English did not 
exceed ten. The next morning some of the natives appeared at 
a distance ; and one of them holding out a bass, a man was sent 
with a biscuit, which the Indian received in exchange for it. After 



464 DORCHESTER. 

this introduction, the natives were very friendly, and furnished 
the Enghsh with fish, giving a bass for a biscuit. The company 
that were left at Nantasket during the absence of those who went 
to Watertown, finding out a neck of land joining to a place called 
Mattapan by the Indians, that was a fit place to turn their cattle 
upon, with less danger of straying, sent for their friends to return. 
They all accordingly repaired to this place, and commenced a set- 
tlement about the first of June. They named the place Dorchester, 
" because several of the settlers came from a town of that name 
in England, and also in honor of Rev. Mr. White of Dorchester." 

" The first inhabitants of Dorchester came chieflj^ from the counties of Devon, Dor- 
set, and Somersetshire. They were a very godly and religious people, and many of 
them persons of note and figure, being dignified with the title of Mr., which but few 
in those days were. Some of the principal men were Mr. Rossiter, Mr. Ludlow, Mr. 
Glover, Mr. Johnson, Sir. Smith, Sir. Gallope, Mr. Hull, Sir. Sloughton, Sir. Cogan, 
Mr. Hill, Capt. Soiithcote, Capt. Lovell, Mr. Duncan, Sir. Pinney, Mr. Richards, Mr. 
Wey, Sir. Williams, and Sir. Tilley. Among them came also Capt. Roger Clap, a 
very worthy, religious gentleman, then a young man. It seems that many of these 
people were trading men, and at first designed Dorchester for a place of commerce. 
Accordingly they built a fort upon Rock-hill, wherein were several pieces of ordon- 
nance, near the water side ; but the channel being poor, and the landing difficult, and 
Boston and Charlestown harbour being far more commodious, they desisted from that 
design, and many of them removed afterwards to Boston and other places j so that 
many families about in the country had their first rise from Dorchester. 

" These first settlers set down pretty thick together at the northerly end of the town, 
next the aforesaid neck of land, and on the easterly side near the sea. 

" The two first years were spent in working' themselves into settlements, and incor- 
porating into a body to carry on the aflfairs of the plantation ; in granting parcels of 
land and meadows, some to each family ; their homesteads being their own option. 
The many great straits and difficulties with which they met, are thus pathetically 
described by Captain Clap : ' the hunger that many sufiered, and saw no hope in the 
eye of reason to be supplied, only by clams, and muscles, and fish. We did quickly 
build boats, and some went a fishing; but bread was with many a scarce thing, and 
flesh of all kind as scarce. And in those days, in our straits, though I cannot say 
God sent a raven to feed m as he did the prophet Elijah, yet this I can say to the 
praise of God's glory, that he sent not only poor ravenous Indians, which came with 
their baskets of corn on their backs to trade with us, which was a good supply unto 
many ; but also sent ships from Holland and from Ireland with provisions, and Indian 
corn from Virginia, to supply the wants of his dear servants in this wilderness, both 
for food and raiment. And, when people's wants were great, not only in one town, 
but divers towns, such was the godly wisdom, care and prudence (not selfishness, but 
self-denial) of our governour Winthrop and his assistants, that when a ship came 
laden with provisions, they did order that the whole cargo should be bouglit for a 
general stock ; and so accordingly it was, and distribution was made to every town 
and to every person in each town as every man had need. Thus God was pleased to 
care for his people in times of straits, and to fill his servants with food and gladness. 
Then did all the servants of God bless his holy name, and love one another with pure 
hearts fervently.' " 

Dorchester is agreeably diversified by hills and valleys, and 
the soil is generally rich and highly cultivated. Its fertile hills 
present beautiful building sites, commanding a fine prospect of the 
islands and waters at the head of Massachusetts Bay. The roads 
in this township are numerous and crooked, but mostly level and 
kept in good repair. Many fine country-houses and substantial 
farm-houses are thickly arranged on their sides. Perhaps "no 
section of our coimtry, of its size, is better cultivated, and no 
where is the union of wealth with rural felicity more complete." 



DORCHESTER. 



465 



Savi7i Hill, which is situated between two inlets from Dorchester 
Bay, is a place of some resort in this town ; it is four miles from 
Boston. Commercial Point is a place of some note, a little south 
of Savin Hill, as is also the peninsula of ^quantmn on the oppo- 
site shore. This town is separated from Milton and Quincy by 
Neponset river, which affords a good water-power and sites for a 
great variety of manufactures. The first water-mill in this coun- 
try was erected here in 1633. The " Dorchester and Milton 
Bank," in this place, has a capital of ^100,000. There are seven 
churches, 4 Congregational, 1 Methodist, 1 Episcopal, and 1 Bap- 
tist. Population, 4,564. Distance, 4 miles south of Boston, and 
6 north-east of Dedham. Dorchester Heights, celebrated in the 
revolutionary annals, are two hills at a small distance from each 
other, on the eastern extremity of the peninsula of Dorchester 
Point, now within the limits of South Boston. 




Northern iiur uj 



tral part of Dorchtster. 



The above is a northern view of the central part of Dorchester 
as it is entered upon the Boston road. The Congregational church 
is seen near the central part of the engraving ; it is situated on a 
gentle, though rocky eminence, having an open area in front, 
somewhat encumbered with masses of rocks. The village in the 
vicinity consists of about 75 dwelling-houses. In 1837, there 
were 3 cotton mills, 5,500 spindles; 1,100,000 yards of cotton 
goods were manufactured, valued at ^125,000 ; sixty males and 
220 females were employed. There were 10 manufactories of 
chairs and cabinet Avare ; value of articles manufactured, .$101,300; 
hands employed, 120. Two paper-mills ; value of paper manufac- 
tured, $15,000. Four vessels were employed in the whale fishery ; 
tonnage, 1,160; sperm oil imported, 56,616 gallons; whale oil, 
94,653 gallons; hands employed, 114. Sixteen vessels were em- 
ployed in the cod and mackerel fishery; tonnage 1,050; codfish 
caught, 9,000 quintals; mackerel caught, 5,000 barrels; hands 
employed, 128 ; capital invested, $50,000. 



466 



DORCHESTER. 



Soon after the first settlement at Dorchester they were joined by other setll°rs from 
England. In 1633, Mr. Oldham and .some others travelled from Dorchester through 
the wilderness to Connecticut, to view the country and trade with the Indians. They 
brought back such a flattering report, that it determined many of the Dorchester people 
to remove thither. Accordingly, on the 20th of October, 1635, about 60 men, women, 
and children, with their horses, cattle, and swine, commenced their march through the 
wilderness, and after a journey of fourteen days arrived at Windsor, on the Connec- 
ticut. Mr. Warham soon followed his congregation, but Mr. Maverick died before ; 
preparations were made for his removal. After the departure of the first settlers, a 
new church was gathered in Dorchester, in August, 1636, and Rev. Mr. Richard Ma- 
ther was chosen teacher. The first place for public worship was erected on the plain, 
not far from the " Old Harbor," where the seltlers first landed. It was surrounded by 
palisadoes, was the place for the deposit of military stores, and for resort in case of alarm 
from the Indians. A sentinel was posted by the gate every night ; and the people 
carried their plate and most valuable articles to the church every evening for preser- 
vation. "In 1676, anew meeting-house was erected on the hill, where the present 
one stands. The work was undertaken by Mr. Isaac Royal, and performed for two 
hundred pounds. The elm trees [cut down in the Revolutionary war] about it were 
set out by Mr. Thomas Tilestone. After the building was completed, the old one was 

sold, by a vote of the town, to Mr. Royal, for £10 The next one was raised in 

1743." — Dr. Harris' account of Dorchester, vol. ix. Coll. Mass. Hist. Soc. 

In 1695, a church was gathered in this town, and Mr. Joseph 
Lord was ordained its pastor, for the purpose of removing to South 
CaroHna, " to encourage the settlement of churches and the pro- 
motion of rehgion in the southern plantations." After a passage 
of fourteen days, they landed at Carolina, and on the 2d of Febru- 
ary, 1696, " was the first sacrament of the Lord's supper that 
was ever celebrated at Carolina." They located themselves on 
Ashley river, about 18 miles north-west of Charleston, and 
named their new settlement Do)'chcste}\ in honor of the place from 
whence they emigrated. This place proving unhealthy, and the 
quantity of the lands too small for the inhabitants, in 1752 a 
new settlement was projected in Georgia, and a grant of upwards 
of 30,000 acres was procured of the legislature. This tract is 
about thirty miles south-westerly from Savannah. Mr. Osgood^ 
the pastor at Dorchester, S. C, and his congregation, gradually 
collected here, and the town they formed is called Midway. 



The following inscriptions are from monuments in the ancient 
grave-yard in Dorchester. 

Heare lyes ovr captaine and maior of Svffolk was withall 
A godly magistrate was he and Major Generall 

Two TROVPS of HORS WITH .HIME HERE CAME SUCH WORTH HIS LOVE DID CRAVE 

Ten companyes also movrning marcht to his grave 
Let all that read be svre to keep the faith as he hath done 
With Christ he livs now crown'd his name was Hvmphry Atherton. 
He dyed the 16 of September, 1661. 

The following, says Mr. Davenport, in a small publication en- 
titled " The Sexton's Monitor," is on two children lying in one 
grave, covered with a flat stone, but so broken, that the upper 
part, which probably bore the name of the parents, was gone. 



Abel, his offering accepted is ; 
His body lo the grave, his soul lo bliss ; 
On October twenty and no more, 
In the year sixteen hundred 44. 



Submit submitted to her heavenly king, 
Beine a flower of the eternal spring; 
Near 3 years old she died in heaven to waJi, 
The year was sixteen hundred 48. 



DOVER 467 

D. 0. M. Sacer Richaudits hie dormit Mathekus. (Sed non totus, nee mora diu. 
turna) Lsetatus genuisse pares. Ineertum est utrum Doctior an Melior Animum et 
gloria non quasunt humari. 

Divinely rich and learned Richard Mather, 
Sons like him, prophets great, rejoic'd this father. 
Short time his sleeping dust's here's covered down, 
Not so his ascended spirit or renown. 

V. D. M. in Angl. XVI annos. In Dor. N. A. 34 an. Ob. Apr. 22, 1669, jEtatis 
^uee 73. 



Elder James Humphreys, who died May 12, 1686, aged 78. 

Inclosed within this shrine is sacred dust, 

And only waits for the rising of the just. 

Most useful while he lived ; adorned his station, 

Even to old age he serv'd his generation : 

Since his death thought of with great veneration. 

How great a blessing this Ruling Elder he 
Unto the Church and Town and Pastors three. 
Mather he first did by him help receive ; 
Flint he did next of burdens much relieve ; 
Renowned Danforth he did help with skill. 
Esteemed high by all ; — bear fruit until 
Yielding to death his glorious seat did fill. 



GuLiELMUs Stoughtonus, armiger Provincice Massachusettensis in Nova Angha 
Legatus, deinde Gubernator ; Nec-non Curise in eadem Provincia Superioris Justicia 
rius Capitalis, Hie jacet. Vir conjugii nescius, Religione sanctus, Virtute clarus, 
Doctrina Celebris, Ingenio acutus, Sanguine et animo pariter illustris; ^quitatis 
amator, Legum propugnator, Collegii Stoughtoniani fundator, Literarum et Litera 
torum fautor, celeberrimus, Impietatis et vitii hostis acerrimus. Hunc Rhetores 
amant facundum, Hunc Scriptores norunt elegantem, Hunc Philosophi qui3erunt sapi- 
entem, Hunc Doctores laudunt theologura, Hunc Pii venerantur austerum, Hunc 
omnes mirantur ! omnibus ignotum. Omnibus licet notum. Quid plura viator ? Quem 
perdidimus — Stoughtonum ? Heu ! Satis dixi ; urgent lachrymfE ; Sileo. Vixit 
annos septuaginta. Septimo die Julii Anno Salutis 1701 Cecidit. Heu! Heu! 
Qualis Luctus ! 



DOVER. 



Dover was originally a part of Dedham ; it was incorporated as 
a precinct in 1748, and as a town in 1784. The church was em- 
bodied in 1762, and Rev. Benjamin Caryl was its minister the 
same year. He continued in the pastoral office 41 years, and was 
succeeded by Rev. Ralph Sanger, who was settled here in 1812. 
The surface of this township is uneven, and a considerable portion 
of it is covered with wood. Pine Hill, in this town and Medfield, 
is 400 feet above Charles river. Population, 518. Distance, 5 
miles from Dedham, and 14 from Boston. In 1837, there was a 
nail factory, which manufactured 300 tons, valued at $36,000 ; 
hands employed, 14; capital invested, $30,000. There is also a 
rolling mill, which manufactured 500 tons of hoops, rods, dec. ; the 
value of which is $55,000. 



63 



468 FOX BOROUGH. 



FOXBOROUGH. 

This town was originally a part of Stoughton ; it was incorpo- 
rated in 1778. The Rev. Thomas Kendall, the first minister, was 
ordained here in 1786. The church was embodied in 1779. Mr. 
Kendall continued its pastor till 1800. The Rev. Daniel Loring, 
his successor, was settled here in 1804, and resigned in 1806. 
Rev. Thomas Skelton, the third minister, continued here about 
four years ; his successor, Rev. Thomas Williams, was installed in 
1816. Rev. Willard Pierce, the next minister, Avas ordained in 
1824. 

In the center of the town there are two churches, 1 Congrega- 
tional and 1 Baptist, and a village of about 25 well-built dwelling- 
houses. Distance, 15 miles from Dedham, 15 to Taunton, 5 to 
Wrentham, 37 to Worcester, 20 to Providence, and 24 to Boston. 
Population, 1,416. The manufacture of straw bonnets is a very 
important branch of business in this place. In 1837, there were 
133,654 straw bonnets manufactured, valued at $121,571. There 
were 2 cotton mills; 17 hands were employed, and $12,350 worth 
of goods manufactured; two woollen mills, cloth manufactured, 
46,000 yards, valued at $48,000 ; one air and cupola furnace ; iron 
castings made, 300 tons, value, $30.000 ; hands employed, 20. 
The value of shovels, spades, forks or hoes manufactured, was 
$15,000. 

John Shepherd, who died in Attleborough in 1809, at the age of 
one hundred and nine years, was a native of this town. " He re- 
tained all his faculties of mind and body, except his eye-sight, to 
the last, and was just able to walk, with a little assistance, till a 
few days before his death.=* He lived over a hundred years on 
his native spot. He was a man of pious character ; cheerful in 
disposition, jocose, witty, and of a quick understanding. He was 
deprived of his eye-sight on a sudden, during the night, and was not 
himself aware of it until the next morning, Avhen he sought in 
vain for the light of day. He could distinctly recollect events 
which had occurred a century before. He had one son and seve- 
ral daughters. Two of his daughters lived to upwards of 80 years ; 
and another, Mrs. Mary Mann, of Wrentham, who died in 1828, 
lived to the age of 97 years. She retained all her faculties and 
usual cheerfulness and vivacity till the last fifteen years of her 
life. She abstained almost wholly from animal food, and never 
was in the habit of drinking tea or coffee, and wondered how peo- 
ple could love either. Her most common food was milk. She 
adhered to the same fashion in dress for 80 years." 

* It is of him that the well-known anecdote is told, that he lived in two counties and 
four different towns, and yet never moved [during that time] from the spot where he 
was born. 



FRANKLIN 



469 



The annexed engraving is a representa- 
tion of a very singular monument standing 
in the grave-yard in the center of this 
town. In order to read the inscription, it 
is necessary to raise the Ud or cover, which 
turns up hke the hd of a tea-pot, and lays 
on the rest by the side. The cover is of 
iron, and is kept to its place by hooks ; the 
date, 1810, is cut upon it. The following 
is the inscription : 

This monument was erected by Doct. N. Miller, to 
the memory of his friend, Mr. Zadock Howe, who died 
1819, JEt. 77, and who fought under the great Wash- 
ington. 

To those who view, before your'e gone, 
Be pleas'd to put this cover on. 
1810. 

On the inside of the cover, on a piece of sheet-iron, the following 
is in gilt letters : 

The grave is waiting for your body, 

And Christ is waiting for your soul, 
0, rnay this be your cheerful study, 

To be prepared when death doth call . 

The lower part of this monument is of granite. This, with the 
apparatus at the top, was made by Mr. Howe, who kept it in his 
house some years before his death. 




FRANKLIN, 

Franklin was set off from Wrentham, in 1737, as a distinct 
parish, and incorporated as a town by the name of Franklin* in 
1778. A church was organized here in 1738, and Rev. Elias Ha- 
ven was ordained pastor the same year. He died of the consump- 
tion, in 1754. About six years after the death of Mr. Haven, Rev. 
Caleb Barnum took the pastoral charge, in Avhich office he con- 
tinued about eight years, when, difficulties increasing, he resigned. 
When the Revolutionary war commenced, he was appointed chap- 
lain in the western army, and died in the camp, in 1776. Rev. 
Nathaniel Emmons, D. D., succeeded Mr. Barnum, and was ordain- 
ed in 1773, and continued pastor for fifty-four years. He was 



* " The name was selected in honor of Benjamin Franklin, LL. D. While Dr. 
Franklin was in France, a friend of his in Boston wrote to him that a town in the 
vicinity of Boston had chosen his name by which to be known in the world, and he 
presumed, as they had no bell with which to summon the people to meeting on the 
Sabbath, a present of such an instrument from him would be very acceptable, espe- 
cially as they were about erecting a new meeting-house. The doctor wrote, in reply, 
that he presumed the people in Franklin were mnrc fond of s^eme, than of sound ; and 
accordingly presented them with a handsome donation of books for the use of the 
pafish." — Smalkyh Centennial Sermon. 



470 



FRANKLIN, 




Residence of Dr. Emmons, Franklin. 

succeeded in the ministry by Rev. E. Smalley, who was ordained 
here in 1829. 

The above is a southern view of the residence of the venerable 
Nathaniel Emmons, D. D. This house was built by Mr. Haven, 
the first minister of this town. It stands about half a mile south 
of the Congregational church. The first meeting-house stood 
about 20 rods north of the present church. At the time Dr. Em- 
mons was ordained, there was a forest within 20 rods of the church. 
His ordination took place in the open air ; he stood in a kind of 
valley, and the people stood on the elevated ground above him. In 
allusion to this circumstance, he pleasantly remarked that he was 
ordained under his people, not over them. Dr. Emmons was born 
at East Haddam, Con., in 1745, and is now in his 94th year. He 
is entirely of the old school in his dress, &c., even to the shoe- 
buckles, and three-cornered hat. One of his numerous visiters 
•mentions that he called on Dr. Emmons in 1838, and, instead of 
finding him broken down by age, found him quite cheerful and 
pleasant in conversation. The study of Dr. Emmons is on the 
lower floor in the south-Avestern corner room, which he has occu- 
pied for this pnrpose for more than sixty years. So clo.scly has 
he confined himself to this room, that it is said he is quite a stran- 
ger to the other parts of his house. Says Mr. Smalley in his cen- 
tennia' sermon, preached in 1838, "Few clergymen of any age 
or country have lived so long as he ; few have written so much ; 

and few have liv^d to such purpose In the unpretending 

form of sermons, he has embodied so much truth, settled so many 
prmciples, and cleared up so many difiiculties, that not a few have 
already acknowledged themselves greatly indebted to him, and are 
prepared to unite with others in pronouncing him a public bene- 
factor Probably no clergyman unconnected with a theolo- 
gical seminary has guided the studies of so many young men in 
theology as Dr. Emmons." 

The manufacture of straw bonnets is an important branch of 



M R D F I E L D . 471 

business in this town. In 1837, there were 93,173 straw bonnets 
manufactured, the vahie of which was $160,186. There were also 
in the limits of the town 5 cotton mills ; cotton spindles, 1,968 ; 
cotton goods manufactured, 323,000 yards, valued at $31,140; 
males employed, 17; females, 31. Population, 1,696. Distance, 
17 miles from Dedham, 18 from Providence, R. I., and 27 from 
Boston. 

The following account is abridged from a communication in the 
Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, by Dr. Mann. 
It rests upon the authority of tradition, but appears to be well 
authenticated. 

" A man by the name of Kocket, in searching for a stray horse, discovered a train 
of 42 Indians, about sunset. From their appearance he suspected they intended to at- 
tack the settlement at Wrentham the next morning, after the men had dispersed to 
their work ; he therefore followed them, secretly, till they halted for the night, when 
he hastily returned to the settlement and gave notice to the inhabitants. A consulta- 
tion was held, at which it was agreed to attack the Indians early the next morning. 
A company of 13, under the command of Captain Ware, was hastily collected from 
Wrentham and the vicinity ; who, having secured the women and children and the 
infirm in the garrison, set out for the Indian encampment, where they arrived just be 
fore day-light ; and were posted within a short distance; with orders to reserve their 
fire till the enemy began to decamp. 

" Between day-light and sunrise the Indians suddenly rose from their resting places, 
■when, upon a signal given, a general discharge was made, which threw them into the 
utmost consternation. Some, in their confusion, while attempting to escape, leaped 
down a precipice of rocks from 10 to 20 feet in height ; some of the fugitives were 
overtaken and slain. Two of them, who were closely pursued, attempted to conceal 
themselves in Mill Brook, wiiere they were found and killed. It is related that one 
Woodcock discharged his long musket, called, in those days, a buccaneer, at a fugitive 
Indian, at the distance of 80 rods, and broke his thigh bone, and then killed him. 

" The number of Indians killed was from 20 to 24 ; and not one of the whites. The 
place where this bold adventure occurred is in tliat part of the ancient Wrentham 
which is now Franklin. The large rock where the Indians were encamped is to this 
day called Indian Rock. The time is not certainly ascertained ; but it was, without 
much doubt, in the spring or summer of 1671), when the Indian forces were dispersed 
in parties throughout the country." 



MEDFIELD 



This is the forty-third town in Massachusetts that secured an 
act of incorporation. It was originally a part of Dedham, and was 
incorporated as a town in 1650. A church was organized here in 
1651, consisting of eight members; Rev. John Wilson, Jr. was 
installed pastor the same year. Mr. Wilson was born in England, 
and graduated in the first class in Harvard college. He united in 
himself the offices of a preacher, physician, and school-master, at 
the same time. He continued in the pastoral office more than for- 
ty years, and died in 1691. After a period of nearly six years, in 
which thirty-two candidates were employed, Joseph Baxter was 
settled, and sustained the pastoral office more than 48 years. Mr. 
Baxter commenced his ministerial labors at tlie age of eighteen, 
and in consequence of his youth his settlement was delayed almost 
three years. " He was selected for a missionary during his minis- 



472 



1\I E D F I E L D . 



try by Governor Shiite. When his excellency had a conference 
with the Indians at Georgetown, on Arrousic Island, in August, 
1717, he presented to them Mr. Baxter, a Protestant missionary; 
but, through the influence of the Jesuit Ralle^ he was rejected. Mr. 
Baxter was succeeded by Rev. Jonathan Townsend, who was set- 
tled in 1745, and died of the small-pox in 1776. His successor 
M'-as Rev. Thomas Prentiss, D. D., who was settled in 1770. Dr. 
Prentiss died in 1S14, deeply lamented." 

This toMai is pleasantly situated, has a fertile soil, and is water- 
ed by Charles and Stop rivers. In the village are two Congrega- 
tional churches (one of them Unitarian) and 1 Baptist, and about 
40 dwelling-houses. Considerable quantities of boots, shoes and 
straw are manufactured here. The principal business, however, 
is agriculture. There are extensive meadows west of the village, 
on Charles river, which are very valuable. It is stated that the 
name of the town (which is spelled on the ancient records Mead- 
field^^ originated from the circumstance of the plantation being 
situated near these meadows. There is good peat in the town, 
and quarries of granite. Distance, 8 miles S. by W. of Dedham, 
and 17 S. S. W. from Boston. Population, 899. The principal 
articles manufactured are straw bonnets, of which, in 1837, there 
were 124,000, the value of which was $135,000. 



r,^^:^^^'^ 




Anciint House in Mtdjidd. 

The above is a west view of one of the oldest houses now 
standing in New England. It is about one third of a mile east- 
ward from the central village of Medfield, on the main road to Ded- 
ham. This house was standing at the time when the principal 
part of the town was burnt by the Indians, in 1676. It is, proba- 
bly, the only house of the kind now standing in this country. It 
is an interesting relic of antiquity, showing the manner in which 
most of the houses of the first settlers M-ere built. This house is 
24 feet in length, 1 1| feet in breadth. 10 feet from the ground to 
the eaves of the roof, about 12 feet from the eaves to the top of 



MEDFIELU. 47:-{ 

the roof. There are three divisions on the ground floor, consisting 
of one principal room, an entry, and a pantry ; on the second floor 
are two chambers, above which is a narrow garret. The building 
standing on the side of the honse is believed to be about as ancient 
as the house, and was formerly used as a weaver's shop. The floor 
of this building is sunk about 3 feet below the surface of the ground. 
Among the first settlers of this town, it is stated, there were a large 
number of weavers. 

In this town slaves were formerly common and numerous. Con- 
cerning witches, it is stated in Dr. Saunders' Historical Sermon, 
that the Rev. Mr. Baxter went to reprove Goody Lincoln for the 
sin of practising witchcraft, and felt a strange pain in his leg on 
his return, whicli was attributed to her ill influence. 

The greater part of this town was burnt in King Philip's war. 
The following account of attack of the Indians is taken from Dr. 
Saunders' Historical Sermon, preached at Medfield, in 1817, page 
17. 

" Having arrived in a vast body at Wachusett mountain, in 
Princeton, they [the Indians] divided for more extensive mischiefs 
into two parties. One proceeded toward Concord, Chelmsford, 
Woburn. and Haverhill ; the other burnt Lancaster, Marlborough, 
and Sudbury, and soon reached Medfield. The Sunday before 
the assault, they were seen on the heights of mount Nebo and 
Noonhill, as the people came out from public worship. There 
were then four fl4J garrisons in town. Nearly 300 soldiers had 
arrived for its defence ; but these had been billeted out upon the 
inhabitants in every direction. The Rev. Mr. Wilson had charged 
Jiis flock to be vigilant against surprise and guarded against dan- 
gers. Monday morning, 21st February, 1676, was the fatal period. 
During the night preceding, the Indians had spread themselves 
over every part of the town, skulking beside every fence and 
building. At the first dawn of day, about 50 buildings were set 
into a blaze at the same instant. Many of the inhabitants through 
great perils were able to reach the garrisons, others were shot 
down as they rushed out of their houses, and one was burnt in his 
own dwelling. At length, the savages were compelled to retire 
over a bridge in the south-west part of the town. Burning the 
bridge in order to cut off" pursuit, they retired to a savage feast on 
the top of the nearest hill, in view of the ruins they had occasion- 
ed. Philip had been seen, riding upon a black horse, leaping over 
fences, exulting in the havoc he was making. Though he could 
neither read nor write, yet he caused a paper to be left, threaten- 
ing to visit them every year for twenty years to come. He did 
not live to fulfil this promise. 

"The destruction commenced at the east part of the town. 
Most of the houses and barns were consumed between the meet- 
ing-house and tlie bridge leading to Medway. Nearly 50 build- 
ings and two mills were destroyed. The best houses and all the 
garrisons escaped. The damages were estimated at about 9,000 
dollars. It was supposed that there were 500 Indians in this en- 



474 M E D W A Y . 

gagement. Their dread of cannon hastened them away. Soon 
after, they carried destruction to Rehoboth, Pawtucket, and Provi- 
dence. Here, John Fussell, aged about 100, was burnt in his 
house. Eight inhabitants were killed, four were mortally wound- 
ed, besides three soldiers who fell, amounting in all to fifteen. 

" On the 6th of May following, the Indians met with a notorious 
repulse at the stone-house near Medfield, in the north-east corner 
of Medway. On the 2d of July, there was near this a new con- 
flict in the woods, and more execution was done upon the enemy. 
Among the captives recovered, a slave gave information of an in- 
tended attack upon Taunton with 200 savages, which information 
proved the preservation of that town by timely auxiliaries sent to 
their protection. July 25th, 30 of ovu' men and 90 Christian 
Indians from Dedham and Medfield pursued the savages and capti- 
vated about -50 of them, among whom was Pomham, the great 
sachem of the Narragansetts. Soon after, the savages retired from 
this part of the country, to carry new distresses into more distant 
reeions." 



MEDWAY. 



This town was originally a part of Medfield : it was incorpo- 
rated in 1713. Mr. David Doming, the first minister, was ordained 
in 1715, and continued nearly seven years pastor. Rev. Nathan 
Buckman, his successor, was settled in Dec, 1724, and continued 
the pastoral relation to this church more than seventy years. He 
died Feb. 6, 1795, in the 92d year of his age, and 71st of his minis- 
try. Mr. Benjamin Green was colleague with the venerable Mr. 
Buckman for a few years. Rev. Luther Wright succeeded Mr. 
Green in the pastoral office, and discharged its duties for seventeen 
years, and was dismissed in 1815. He was succeeded by Rev. 
Luther Baily. The second church in Medway was formed in 
1750, and Rev. David Thurston was settled in 1752, as the first 
minister. In consequence of ill health and some difficulties in the 
church, he resigned the pastoral office in 1769. Rev. David San- 
ford, the second pastor, continued his active and useful labors from 
1773 till 1807, when they were terminated by a severe paralysis. 
He was succeeded by Rev. Jacob Ide, who was invested v.dth the 
pastoral charge in 1814. 

The following engraving shows the appearance of Medway, or 
Factory Village, as it is entered from the east upon the old Med- 
field road. The spire seen on the right is that of the Congrega- 
tional church. The building on the left with a small low spire is 
a 4 story cotton factory, standing on Charles river. This village 
consists of 37 dwelling-houses, 3 stores, 3 cotton and 1 woollen 
factories. The boot and shoe business is carried on to considerable 
extent in Medway village and in West Medway. In East Med- 
way rs a bell-foundry, (owned by Col. Geo. H. Holbrook,) an 
organ manufactory, and a clock factory. This town is gradually 



MILTON 



475 




Eastern view of Factory Village, Mednay. 



improving in appearance, wealth, and population. There are in the 
limits of the town 4 churches, 3 Congregational, one of which is 
Unitarian, and 1 Baptist. Distance, 12 miles S. W. of Dedham, 
and 20 S. W. of Boston. Population, 2.050. 

In 1837, there were in the limits of the town 6 cotton mills ; 
2,500 spindles ; 428,200 yards of cotton goods manufactured, the 
value of which was $42,120. Two woollen mills, 3 sets of ma- 
chinery; 76,000 yards of cloth were manufactured, valued at 
^62,000. There were 38,494 pairs of hoots and 100,650 pairs of 
shoes manufactured, valued at $149,774; males employed, 198; 
females, 98 ; there were 32,200 straw bonnets manufactured, val- 
ued at $40,400 ; there was also a manufactory for cotton batting, 
and another for cotton wadding. 



MILTON. 

The Indian name of this place is said to have been TJncalaquis- 
sett. In 1662, the town of Dorchester voted that Unquety, since 
called Milton, should be a township, if it had the consent of the 
general court. It had the consent of the court, and it was incor- 
porated the same year. 

In the south-west part of this town there is a range of the Blue 
Hills, 710 feet above high-water mark, and is a noted landmark 
for sailors. It presents in full view Boston and its environs, Mas- 
sachusetts Bay, the peninsula of Cape Cod, and Wachusett Moun- 
tain in the interior. Milton is adorned with some pleasant country 
seats, and contains at the two falls, and at the bridge where the 
Neponset meets the tide, manufactories of cotton, paper, &c. For- 
ty or fifty vessels annually visit the wharves with wood, coal, 
lumber, grain, (fcc. The first paper-mill ever established in Mas- 
sachusetts was in this town. There are 3 churches, 2 Congrega- 

64 



476 



MILTON 




CentruL j)art of Dvrrhister and Milton Village. 



tional and 1 Uiiiversalist. Population. 1.772. Distance. 7 miles 
S. of Boston, G C ot' Dedhani. 

The above is a southern view of the central part of Dorchester 
and Miltou village, lying on both sides of Neponset river, which is 
the dividing line between the towns. The view is taken from the 
Milton side when descending the hill on the road to the bridge, 
connecting the north and south parts of the village, which consists 
of nearly 100 dwelling-houses, 3 churches, 2 Congregational, one 
of which is Unitarian, and 1 Methodist ; two cotton factories, 2 pa- 
per-mills, two chocolate mills, and a bank, the " Dorchester and 
Milton Bank;" this institution is located on the Dorchester side. 
" The Governor Hutchinson House" is on the summit of the hill 
on the Milton side, which rises immediately from the southern 
bank of the Neponset. The central part of the village is between 
six and seven miles from Boston. 

Milton was the summer residence of Gov. Hutchinson, the au- 
thor of the History of Massachusetts Bay, and the last royal gover- 
nor but one. He was supposed by many to have forwarded the 
stamp act by letters written on the occasion. After the arrival of 
the stamps, a mob assaulted his house in Boston, in 1765, and 
having forced him to retire, out of regard to his personal safety, 
either destroyed or carried oft' his plate, his family pictures, most 
0^ the furniture, the wearing apparel, about nine hundred pounds 
sterling in money, and the manuscripts and books which he had 
been thirty years collecting. In 1772, a number of his letters 
were found written to the British cabinet, stimulating them to 
enforce their plans against the liberties of the Americans. The 
general court, upon knowledge of this, voted to impeach him, and 
requested his majesty would remove him from office. Hutchinson, 
when informed of this, dissolved the assembly. He became at 
length so obnoxious to the province, that he was superseded by 



N E E D H A M . 477 

Governor Gage, in 1774. He died in England, in 1780, aged 69 
years. 

The following article is taken from the Boston Evening Tran- 
script, Jan. 2.")th, 1839. 

" The first paper-mill built in New England. — An act to encourage the mamxfacture 
of paper in Ne^v England was passed by the general court of Massachusetts on the 
13th Sept., 17L?8, and a patent was granted to Daniel Henchman, Gillam Phillips, 
Benjamin Faneuil, Thomas Hancock, and Henry Bering, for the sole manufacture of 
paper for ten years, on the tbllowing conditions : In the first fifteen months to make 
one hundred and forty reams of brown paper, and sixty reams of printing paper. The 
second year to make fifty reams of writing paper, in addition to the first-mentioned 
quantity. The third year and afterwards yearly, to make twenty-five reams of a 
superior quality of writing paper, in addition to the former mentioned, that the total 
annual produce of the various qualities not to be less than five hundred reams a year. 
The afore-mentioned proprietors erected a small paper-mill in Milton, on a site adjoin- 
ing Neponset river, near the lower bridge. What number of years the original proprie- 
tors carried it on, is not now known ; their master-workman's name was Henry Wood- 
man, an Englishman ; he married in Milton, and left children, two daughters, Abigail 
and Rebekah. The paper-mill, having been stopped for some time, was eventually sold 
to Mr. Jeremiah Smith, who, for want of workmen, was prevented making any use of it. 
In 1760, the business was again revived by James Boies, of Boston, who procured a 
paper-maker from a British regiment, then stationed in Boston, by the name of Hazel- 
ton, who obtained a furlough long enough to set the mill to work, there being an 
American paper-maker, Abijah Smith, then living in Milton, a decent workman, who 
assisted him, and who continued at the business until an advanced age. On the regi- 
ment to which Hazelton belonged being ordered to Quebec, the commander-in-chief 
would not permit him to remain behind, and he went with the army to Canada, and 
received a wound on the plains of Abraham, when Wolfe fell, and died a few weeks 
after. After a short time. Richard Clarke, an Englishman, arrived from New York, 
and again set the mill at work. He was an excellent workman, and made his own 
moulds. After a few years he was joined by his son, a young man of 19 or 20 years, 
who was also considered a first-rate workman. Such is the origin of the first paper- 
mill built in New England, and probably the first erected this side of Philadelphia, if 
not the first in America : and such was the commencement of that now invaluable 
and extensive branch of New England productive industry, on which so many thou- 
sands depend for support." 



N E E D H A M 



This town, originally a part of Dedham, was incorporated in 
1711. It is something of the nature of a peninsula, being sur- 
rounded by more than two-thirds of its limits by Charles river. 
There are large bodies of meadow on the banks of this river ; 
Broad meadow, lying partly in this town and the towns of Dedham 
and Newton, is said to be one of the largest in the state. The 
town is uncommonly well watered, and is diversified with hills 
and plains. In the course of the river which separates this town 
from Newton, there are two falls, called the upper and lower falls, 
which afford valuable water privileges. At the upper falls is the 
largest cataract in the whole of Charles river, from its source to its 
mouth. The water here falls twenty feet upon a bed of rocks. 

The principal settlements in the town are in the vicinity of the 
upper and lower falls. There is a manufacturing village at both 
of these falls, lying partly in this town and partly in Newton. In 
1837, there were in the limits of this town 6 paper-mills ; 610 tons 



478 Q u I N c y . 

of stock were manufactured, valued at $61,000; one cotton mill, 
1,700 spindles: cotton goods manufactured, 190,000 yards, valued 
at $19,000 ; three hat manufactories, which manufactured 15,004 
hats, valued at $18,729; one window-blind hinge manufactory, 
which manufactured 50,000 pairs of hinges, valued at $12.500 ; 
there were 22,673 pairs of shoes manufactured, valued at 
$14,964 18; males employed, 26; females. 41. There are 5 
churches, 2 Congregational, 2 Methodist, and 1 Baptist. Popula- 
tion, 1,492. Distance, 4 miles north-west of Dedham, and 12 
westerly from Boston. 

The first church was organized, and Mr. Jonathan Townsend 
was ordained the first minister, in 1720. He continued in the 
mmistry upwards of forty-two years, and was succeeded by 
Samuel West, D. D., who was settled here in 1764. Dr. West 
vesigned his charge in 1788, and was succeeded by Mr. Stephen 
Palmer, who was settled in 1792. During the ministry of Dr. 
West, conflicting interests respecting the location of the meeting- 
house occasioned a division of the town into two societies. The 
West parish was incorporated by the general court in 1778. 
They erected a meeting-house, but did not have constant preach- 
ing for several years. A church was organized in 1798, and the 
next year Rev. Thomas Noyes was ordained their first minister. 



QUINCY. 



This town was originally the first parish in Braintree. It was 
first settled in 1625, by a Capt. Wollaston, and from him was 
named Mount Wollaston. It appears that he became discouraged, 
and the next year went to Virginia, appointing Lieutenant Filcher 
his agent. One Thomas Morton, who had been a kind of petti- 
fogger at Furnival's inn, being one of the company, excited a 
sedition against Filcher, and compelled him to leave the plantation. 
Morton then assumed the control, and having received some goods 
from England, began to trade with the natives. The trade being 
profitable, the company devoted their gains to rioting and drunk- 
enness, and changed the name of their residence to Merry Moutit^ 
where, as it is related in the New England Memorial, " setting up 
a May-pole, drinking and dancing about it, and frisking about it 
like so many fairies, or furies rather, yea, and worse practices, 
as if they had anew revived and celebrated the feast of the 
Roman goddess Flora, or the beastly practices of the mad Bac- 
chanalians." They soon after began to sell arms to the savages. 
This alarmed the other plantations. The magistrates of Plymouth 
colony wiote to him civilly and repeatedly, requesting him to 
desist from this commerce; but Morton treated the proposition 
with contempt; upon which, Capt. Standish, with a small force, 
came to Mount Wollaston, took Morton, dispersed the rioters, and 
loft a few of the more sober and industrious planters. Morton 
was carried to Plymouth, and sent back to England. 



Q XT I N C Y . 479 

Ciuincy was incorporated as a town in 1792. It received its 
name from the family of Mr. Edmund Qnincy, who was one of 
the early inhabitants of Boston, and one of the earhest and prin- 
cipal proprietors of Mount WoUaston. The south-western part 
of this town forms, with httle exception, a complete body of granite 
rock, rising to the height of 600 feet above the level of the sea. 
Here are inexhaustible quarries of stone, which furnish a beautiful 
material for building. A railroad, nearly three miles in length, has 
been constructed, at an expense of upv/ards of $30,000, to convey the 
stone from the quarries to Neponset river. The rails are of wood, 
six feet apart, firmly laid upon blocks of stone, and covered with 
iron plate, upon which the wheels of the wagon move so easily that 
one horse has drawn twenty tons, besides the wagon, which 
weighs six tons. This railway was built in 1826, and was the 
first constructed in America. Some vessels are owned here ; large 
quantities of boots and shoes, and some salt, are manufactured 
here. The pleasantness of the town, its nearness to Boston, and 
good schools, induce many families to make it their residence. 
There are 4 churches, 2 Congregational, 1 Episcopal, and 1 Uni- 
versalist. Population, 3,049. Distance, 10 miles from Dedham, 
6 from Hingham, and 8 from Boston. In 1837 there was quarried 
in tnis town 64,590 tons of granite, valued at $248,737 ; hands 
employed, 533, The value of coach, chaise, harness and wheel- 
wright business was $32,650 ; hands employed, 36. The value of 
coach lace manufactured was $12,000; males employed, 7; females, 
16. Boots m.anufactured, 27,437 pairs ; shoes, 18,602 pairs, valued 
at $111,881 ; males employed, 163; females, 58. Vessels built in 
the five preceding years, 13 ; tonnage, 2,594 ; valued at $122,650 ; 
hands employed in ship-building, 50. Ten vessels were employed 
in the cod and mackerel fishery ; 6,200 quintals of codfish were 
caught, valued at $18,800 ; mackerel caught, 1.750 barrels, valued 
at $12,242; hands employed, 100. 

Quincy is distinguished as the birthplace of two presidents of 
the United States.* The following cut (a reduced copy from one 
in the American Magazine) is a representation of the two Adams 
houses, near the foot of Penn's Hill, in Quincy. The house on 
the right, with a lightning-rod attached to it, is the house where 
John Adams, the elder president, was born, the other in which his 
son John Q. Adams was born, in July, 1767. In the garret was 
packed his valuable library while he was minister at Russia. It 

* It appears from an epitaph on a monument raised by the elder President Adams, 
that Henry Adams was the progenitor of the Adams family in this country; in the 
epitaph it is said, " He took his flight from the Dragon persecution in Devonshire, 
England, and alighted, with eight sons, near Mount Wollaston. One of the sons 
returned to England, and, after taking time to explore the country, four removed to 
Medfield and the neighboring towns, two to Chelmsford, one only, Joseph, remained 
here, and was an original proprietor in the township of Braintree." Joseph Adams 
had a son Joseph Adams, who was the father of John Adams, who was the father of 
John Adams the president. They were distingtiished, as we learn from the epitaph 
referred to above, " for their piety, humility, simplicity, prudence, patience, temper- 
ance, frugality, industry, and perseverance." 



480 



Q U I N C Y . 




Adams Houses in Quincy. 

was vinder the care of the Rev. Mr. Whitney, pastor of the first 
Congregational society, who occupied the house from 1800 to 1804. 
Back of the houses represented in the engraving is a meadow of 
some extent ; connected with this, there is the following anecdote, 
often related by the elder Adams, respecting himself: 

" When I was a boy, I had to study the Latin grammar, but it 
was dull, and I hated it. My father was anxious to send me to 
college, and therefore I studied grammar till I could bear it no 
longer, and, going to my father, I told him I did not like study, 
and asked for some other employment. It was opposing his 
wishes, and he was quick in his answer. ' Well, John,' said 
he, ' if Latin grammar does not suit, you may try ditching ; per- 
haps that will. My meadoVvT yonder needs a ditch, and you may 
put by Latin, and try that.' This seemed a deliglitful change, 
and to the meadow I went. But 1 soon found ditching harder 
than Latin, and the first forenoon was the longest I ever experi- 
enced. That day 1 eat the bread of labor, and glad was I when 
night came on. That night I made some comparison between 
Latin grammar and ditching, but said not a word about it. I dug 
the next forenoon, and wanted to return to Latin at dinner ; but 
it was humiliating, and I could not do it. At night, toil conquered 
pride, and 1 told my father — one of the severest trials of my life — 
that if he chose I would go back to Latin grammar. He was glad 
of it ; and if I have since gained any distinction, it has been owing 
to the two days' labor in that abominable ditch." 

The following inscriptions are from monuments in this place : 

Braintrey ! thy Prophet's gone, this Tomb inters 
The Reverend Moses Fisk, this sacred herse 
Adore Heaven's praiseful art that forni'd the man 
"Who souls not to himself but Christ oft wan, 
Sail'd thro' the straits with Peter's family, 
Renown'd and Gaius's hospitality, 
Paule's patience, James his prudence, John's sweet love, 
Is landed, enter'd, clear'd and crown'd above. 
Obut August the x, mdccjciii, ^tatis suae lxvi. 



RANDOLPH 



481 



Here lies the body of the Rev. Mr. Henry Flynt, who came to New England in 
the year 16.35, was ordained the Arst Teacher of the Church of Braintry 1639, and 
died 27th April, 1663. He had the character of a gentleman remarkable for his piety, 
learning, wisdom, and fidelity in his office. By him, on his right hand, lies the body 
of Margery, his beloved consort, who died March 1686-7. Her maiden name was 
Hoar. She was a gentlewoman of piety, prudence, and peculiarly accomplished for 
instructing young gentlewomen, many being sent to her from other towns, especially 
from Boston. Descendants of goodly famihes in Old England. 

The following is the inscription on Leonard Hoar, some time 
president of Harvard college, who died Nov. 28, 1675, aged 45 : 



Three precious friends under this tombstone lie, 
Patterns to aged, youth, and infancy, 
A great mother, her learned son, with's child, 
The first and least went free, He was exiled. 
In love to Christ, this country, and dear friends. 
He left his own, crossed seas, and for amends 



Was here extolled, envied, all in a breath, 

His noble consort leaves, is drawn to death. 

Strange changes may befall us etc- we die, 

Blest they who well arrive at eternity. 

God grant some names, O thou New England's friend, 

Don't sooner fade than thine, if times don't mend. 



Sacred to the memory of Josiah Quincy, jun., of Boston, Barrister of Law, young- 
est soil of Josiah Quincy, Esq. late of this place. Brilliant talents, uncommon elo- 
quence, and indefatigable application raised him to the highest eminence in his 
profession. His early, enlightened, inflexible attachment to the cause of his country 
is attested by monuments more durable than this, and transmitted to posterity by well- 
known productions of his genius. He was born the 23d of February, 1744, and died 
the 26th of April, 1775. His mortal remains are here deposited, with those of Abigail, 
his wife, daughter of William Phillips, Esq., born the 14th of April, 1745, died the 
25th March, 1793. 

Stranger, in contemplating this monument as the frail tribute of filial gratitude and 
afiection, 

Glows thy bold breast with patriotic flame ? 

Let his example point the paths of fame ! 

Or seeks thy heart, averse from public strife. 

The milder graces of domestic life? 

Her kindred virtues let thy soul revere. 

And o'er the best of mothers drop a tear ! 



RANDOLPH. 

Randolph Avas originally a part of Braintree ; it was incorpo- 
rated as a town in 1793. A church was formed in 1731, and Rev. 
Elisha Eaton was ordained the first pastor, the same year. He 
continued about nineteen years in the ministry, Avhen he resigned, 
and was succeeded by Rev. Moses Taft, who continued in the 
pastoral office nearly forty years. Rev. .Tonathan Strong, D. D., 
was ordained colleague pastor with Mr. Taft, in 1789. Dr. Strong 
died in 1814, and was succeeded by Rev. Thaddeus Pomeroy, 
Mr. Pomeroy was dismissed in 1820, and was succeeded by Rev. 
Calvin Hitchkock. " During Mr. Pomeroy's ministry, the east 
part of the town of Randolph became a separate society. They 
erected a meeting-house, organized a church; and on the 29th 
of December, 1821, Mr. Brigham, the first and present pastor, was 
ordained." 

In the following cut, the church seen on the left is the first 
Congregational church. The first meeting-house ever erected in 
this town stood on this spot. The present building is the third 



482 



ROXB UR Y. 




Suiith-easttra vierv of the central part of Randulph. 

which has been buih. The first settlement in this town was 
made in the vicinity of this church. The principal part of the 
central village is situated on a street running about a mile north- 
westerly of this church, at the northern extremity of which is the 
Baptist church, which is just discernible in the distance, in the 
engraving. The village consists of about 100 dwelling-houses, 
with the usual number of stores and mechanic shops. This place 
is 14 miles from Boston, 11 from Dedham, and 8 from Weymouth 
landing. East Randolph, a flourishing village, is about 2 miles 
eastward ; is about two thirds the size of the central village, and 
contains two churches, 1 Congregational and 1 Baptist. There is 
also another Baptist church in the south part of this town, near the 
Stoughton line. The Randolph Bank is located in this town. In 
1837, there were manufactured in this town 200,175 pairs of boots, 
470,620 pairs of shoes ; the value of boots and shoes, $944,715 ; 
males employed, 804: females, 671. Population, 3,041, Distance, 
12 miles from Dedham, 7 from Braintree landing, and 14 from 
Boston. 



ROXBURY. 

This town and Boston were incorporated the same year, 1630; 
it being also the same year in which this place was selected for a 
settlement by Mr. Pynchon and some others. A great part of this 
town is rocky land ; hence the name of Rocks' bury ; the soil is, 
however, strong, and in a very high state of cultivation, abounding 
in country seats and pleasure-grounds. The town is joined to 
Boston by a neck of land, over which are Ijroad and pleasant 
avenues. That portion of the town next to Boston is thickly set- 
tled, and forms a handsome village, and the principal street may 
be considered as a continuation of Washington street, Boston. In 
the western part of the town is an extensive level, called Jamaica 
Plains ; this is a pleasant spot, ornamented with elegant country 



R X B U R Y 



483 



seats and well-cultivated gardens. The pond in tins plain is the 
source from whence the Boston Aqueduct is supplied. It is about 
four miles from Boston, and there are four main logs from the 
pond, to and through the principal streets; these logs and the 
branches connected with them amount to about forty miles in 
length. There are generally about eight hundred families sup- 
plied with water from the aqueduct. 




North-western view in the central part of the Village of Eoxbury. 

The above is a view on the elevated ground in the central part 
of Roxbury. The first Congregational church (Unitarian) appears 
on the left. The Norfolk House, a splendid establishment, is par- 
tially seen on the right. The omnibuses which pass between this 
place and Boston start from this house. At this time they are 12 
in number, with four horses each; one of which starts from Rox- 
bury and Boston every 15 minutes. The distance between the 
Norfolk House and the state-house is three miles. The fare from 
Boston to Roxbury is twelve and a half cents ; by purchasing a 
number of tickets at one time, the price of a passage is reduced. 
As there are many persons who do business in Boston but reside 
in Roxbury, this method of conveyance is a great accommodation. 
There are 5 churches in this village, 2 Congregational, 1 Baptist, 
1 Episcopal, and 1 Universalist. There are 2 banks, the " Peoples" 
and " Winthrop," each with a capital of $100,000. Owing to the 
uneven surface on which this large village is built, there is quite a 
variety of scenery in the place. The numerous genteel residences 
and cottages, which are mostly built of wood and painted white, 
contrast strongly with the evergreens and shrubbery by which 
most of them are surrounded ; and, during the summer months, 
the appearance of this place is highly beautiful. In 1837, there 
was 1 nail factory, which manufactured 1,000 tons of nails, valued 
at $120,000 : hands employed, 75. There are 10 churches in the 

65 



B Xfi D B Y . 

limits of the town, 6 Congregational, 2 Universalist, 1 Baptist, and 
1 Episcopal. Population, 7.493. In Roxbury village there is an 
establishment for the manufacture of carpets, and another for tho 
manufacture of India rubber cloths, &c., an article which it is be- 
lieved is destined to be one of very great importance. 

The Rev. John Eliot, the celebrated missionary to the Indians, 
was nearly sixty years pastor to the church in this place. He is 
usually called " the Apostle of Indians." He was born in England, 
in 1604. The following biographical sketch is extracted from Al- 
len's Biographical Dictionary. 

" His pious parents early imparted to him religious instruction, and it was not without 
effect. After receiving his education at the university of Cambridge, he was for some 
time the instructer of youth. In 1631 he came to this country, and arriving at Boston 
harbor November third, immediately joined the church in that town, and preached to 
them, as Mr. Wilson, their minister, was then in England. Here he was earnestly 
requested to remain, but he was settled as teacher of the church in Roxbury Novem- 
ber 5, 1632. In the following year Mr. Welde was ordained as his colleague, with the 
title of pastor. These two ministers lived together in much harmony. In 1637 they 
both opposed the M'ild notions of Mrs. Hutchinson, and were both witnesses against 
her at her trial. In 1639 they were appointed, with 3Ir. Richard Mather of Dorchester, 
to make a new version of the Psalms, which was printed in the following year. For 
tuneful poetry it would not perhaps yield the palm even to that of Sternhold and Hop- 
kins ; but it did not give perfect satisfaction. The reverend Mr. Shepard of Cambridge 
thus addressed the translators : 

' Ye Eoxbury poets, keep clear of the crime 
Of missing to give us very good rhyme ; 
And you of Dorchester, your verses lengthen, 
But with the text's own words you will them strengthen.' 

The New England psalms were afterwards revised and improved by President Dunster, 
and they have passed through twenty editions. In 1011 Mr. Welde returned to Eng- 
land. Mr. Eliot's other colleagues in the ministry were the reverend Mr. Danforth 
and Mr. Walter. 

" His benevolent labors were not confined to his own people. Having imbibed the 
true spirit of the gospel, his heart was touched with the wretched condition of the 
Indians, and he became eagerly desirous of making them acquainted with the glad 
tidings of salvation. There were, at the time when he began his missionary exertions, 
near twenty tribes of Indians within the limits of the English planters ; but they 
were very similar in manners, language, and religion. Having learned the barbarous 
dialect, he first preached to an assembly of Indians at Nonantum, in the present town 
of Newton, October 28, 1646. 

" He was violently opposed by the sachems and pawaws, or priests, who were appre- 
hensire of losing their authority, if a new religion was introduced. When he was 
alone with them in the wilderness, they threatened him with every evil if he did not de- 
sist from his labors ; but he was a man not to be shaken in his purpose by the fear of 
danger. He said to them, ' I am about the work of the great God, and my God is 
with me ; so that I neither fear you, nor all the sachems in the country ; I will go 
on, and do you touch me if you dare.' With a body capable of enduring fatigue, 
and a mind firm as the mountain oaks which surrounded his path, he went from 
place to place, relying for protection upon the great Head of the church, and declaring 
the salvation of the gospel to the children of darkness. His benevolent zeal prompted 
him to encounter with cheerfulness the most terrifying dangers, and to submit to the 
most incredible hardships. He says in a letter, ' I have not been dry, night or day, 
from the third day of the week unto the sixth ; but so travelled, and at night pull oflf 
my boots, wring ray stockings, and on with them again, and so continue. But God 
steps in and helps. I have considered the word of God, 1 Tim. ii. 3, Endure hardship 
as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.' He made a missionary tour every fortnight, 
planted a number of churches, and visited all the Indians in Massachusetts and Fly- 
mouth colonies, pursuing his way as far as Cape Cod. 

« He made every exertion to promote the welfare of the Indian tribes ; he stimu- 
lated many servants of Jesus to engage in the missionary work j and although he 



ROXBURY.- 485 

mourned over the stupidity of many, who preferred darkness to light, yet he lived to 
see twenty-four of the copper-colored aborigines fellow-preachers of the precious gbspel 
of Christ. In 16(U he published the New Testament in the Indian language, and in a 
few years the whole Bible, and several other hooks, best adapted for the instruction oi 
the natives. He possessed an influence over the Indians, which no other missionary 
could obtain. He was their shield in- 1:675, during Philip's war,when some of the 
people of Massachusetts, actuated by the most infuriate spirit, intended to-harre de- 
.stroyed them. He suffered every abuse for his friendship to them, but nothing could 
quench the divine charity which glowed in his heart. His firmness, his zeal, his 
benevolence at this perit)d increased the pure lustre of his character. AVhen he 
reached the age of fourscore years, he offered to give up his salary, and desired to be 
liberated from the labors of his office, as teacher of the church at Roxbury. It was 
with joy that he received I\Ir. Walter as his colleague, in 1688. "When he was bend- 
ing under his infirmities and could no longer visit the Indians, he persuaded a number 
ol' lamiUes to send their negro .servants to him once a week, that he might instruct 
them in the truths of God. He died May 20, 1690, aged about eighty-six years, say- 
ing that all his labors were poor and small, and exhorting those who surrounded his 
bed to pray. His last words were, " welcome joy." 

Facsimile of the handwriting of the Rev. John Elint. copied from an original letter in th« possession 
o/ t/ie Massachusetts Ilistoricdi Society. 

Joseph Warren, a major-general in the American army, and a 
martyr to the cause of American freedom, was born in this town, 
iu 1740, and graduated at Harvard college, in 1759. 

" Directing his attention to medical studies, he in a few years became one of the most 
eminent physicians in Boston. But he lived at a period when greater objects claimed 
his attention than those which related particularly to his profession. His country 
needed his efforts, and his zeal and courage would not permit him to shrink from any 
labors or dangers. His eloquence and his talents as a writer were displayed on many 
occasions, from the year in which the stamp act was passed to the commencement of 
the war. He was a bold politician. While many were waverng with regard to the 
measures which should be adopted, he contended, that every kind of taxation, whether 
external or internal, was tyranny, and ought immediately to be resisted ; and he 
believed that America was able to withstand any force that could be sent against her. 
From the year 1768 he was a principal member of a secret meeting or caucus ia 
Boston, wliich had great influence on the concerns of the county. With all his bold- 
ness, and decision, and zeal, he was circum.spect and wise. In this assembly the plans 
of defence were matured. After the destruction of the tea, it was no longer kept 
secret. He was twice chosen the public orator of the town on the anniversary of the 
massacre, and his orations breathe the energy of a great and daring mind. It was he 
who, on the evening before the battle of Lexington, obtained information of the intend- 
ed expedition against Concord, and at ten o'clock at niglit despatched an express to 
Messrs. Hancock and Adams, who were at Lexington, to warn them of their danger. 
He himself on the next day, the memorable nineteenth of April, was very active. It 
is said in General Heath's Memoirs that a ball took off part of his ear-lock. In the 
confused state of the army, which soon assembled at Cambridge, he had vast influence 
in preserving order among the troops. After the departure of Hancock to congress, 
he was chosen president of the provincial congress in his place. Four days previously 
to the battle of Bunker's or Breed's hill he received his commission of major general. 
When the intrenchments were made upon the fatal spot, to encourage the men within 
the lines he went down from Cambridge and joined them as a volunteer on the event- 
ful day of the battle, June the seventeenth. Just as the retreat commenced, a ball 
struck him on the head, and he died in 'he trenches, aged thirty-five years. He was 
the first victim of rank that fell in the struggle with Great Britain. In the spring of 
1776 his bones were taken up and entombed in Boston, on which occasion, as he had 



486 ' SHARON. 

been grand master of the free-masons in America, a brother mason and an eloquent 
orator pronounced a funeral eulogy. With zeal in the cause of liberty, which blazed, 
Dr. Warren was yet judicious in counsel, and candid and generous towards those 
■who had different sentiments respecting ihe controversy. His mind was vigorous, his 
disposition humane, and his manners affable and engaging. In his integrity and 
patriotism entire confidence was placed. To the most undaunted bravery he added 
the virtues of domestic life, the eloquence of an accomplished orator, and the wisdom 
of an able statesman. He published an oration in 1772, and another in 1775, com- 
memorative of the fifth of March, 1770." 

William, Heath, a major-general in the Revolutionary war, was 
born in this town, in 1737. He was brought up a farmer, and from 
his youth was remarkably fond of military exercises, and read 
whatever he could find on the subject. The following is from 
Alden's Collection. 

" At the commencement of that contest which issued in the independence of the 
American states, the subject of this article was a colonel of the militia, and one of the 
committee of safety appointed by the provincial congress of Massachusetts. Soon 
after the war was begun, he received the commission of a brigadier-general in the 
army of the United States, and, the year following, he was promoted to the rank of a 
major-general. He continued in the public service of his country till the establish- 
ment of peace, and was appointed to various important stations and extensive com- 
mands. 

" On the restoration of peace, he returned to his family, and employed himself in 
agricultural pursuits, and the various duties of private life and of such public offices 
as his fellow-citizens called him to fill. He was a member of the state convention 
which ratified the federal constitution, and gave his vote for its adoption. He was 
repeatedly elected to a seat in the senate and in the council of Massachusetts. In 
the year 1806, he was chosen, by the suffrages of the people, lieutenant governor of 
the commonwealth, but, being far advanced in age, did not accept the proffered honor. 
As judge of probate, he served his county, very acceptably, for many years, and till 
the close of life. 

" In a domestic sphere, he was distinguished by his mild and amiable disposition and 
manners. Few men appeared more free from the influence of party spirit and ran* 
cor, or expressed their sentiments on public men and measures with more prudence, 
than General Heath. From his youth, he was a believer and public professor of the 
Christian religion, and adorned his profession by his exemplary life and conversation. 
After a few days of confinement with sickness, he died, on the 24th of January, 1814, 
meeting his dissolution with Christian fortitude, resignation, and hope." 



SHARON. 



This town, originally a part of Stoughton, was incorporated in 
1765. This place was called Mashapoag by the Indians, and a 
principal branch of Neponset river rises in Mashapoag pond in 
this town. The church formerly denominated the second precinct 
in Stoughton was organized in 1741. Rev. Philip Curtis, their 
first minister, was ordained in 1743, and continued in the ministry 
more than fifty-four years. His successor was Rev. Jonathan 
Whitaker, who continued here nearly 17 years, and was dismissed 
in 1816. Rev. Samuel Brimblecom was the next minister; he 
continued about three years, and was afterwards installed at West- 
brook, Maine, a Universalist minister. 

The following is a N. Eastern view of the central part of Sharon, 
showing one of the churches, the spire of another, (now erecting) 
and some of the buildings in the vicinity. The main road appears 



STOUGHTON. 



487 




North-eastcni vitw in the central part of Sharo7i. 

on the right, at the southern extremity of which is seen in the dis- 
tance one of the Blue Hills^ which are the highest elevations in 
the hmits of Norfolk county. The Boston and Providence railroad 
passes within about half a mile from the central part of the village. 
There are 3 churches. 2 Congregational and 1 Baptist. Popula- 
tion, 1,093. Distance, 8 miles from Dedham, 17 from Taunton, 
24 from Providence, R. I., and 18 from Boston. The Sharon Cot- 
ton Factory Company was incorporated in 1811, with a capital of 
$100,000. In 1837, there were 2 cotton mills, spindles, 948; cot- 
ton goods manufactured, 179,077 yards, valued at $522,760 22 ; 
one woollen mill, which manufactured 25,000 yards of cloth, val- 
ued at $12,500 ; there were 2,804 straw bonnets manufactured, 
valued at $4,451 50. 



STOUGHTON. 

Stoughton was originally a part of Dorchester, and embraced 
within its limits the present towns of Canton, Sharon, and Foxbo- 
rough. It was incorporated in 1726. A church was organized in 
1744, and Rev. Jedediah Adams received the pastoral charge in 
1746, and continued in the ministry fifty-three years. Dr. Rich- 
mond was ordained colleague pastor in 1792, and continued twen- 
ty-four years. He resigned in 1817, and was succeeded by Mr. 
Gay, who continued pastor about three years and a half, and 
resigned in 1822. Dr. Park, formerly a professor in Brown Uni- 
versity, was installed over the church and the society who usually 
worship with them. Mr. Stearns was ordained over the first parish, 
and continued upwards of three years, when he was dismissed. 
Rev. Mr. Ballon, an Universalist minister, is the stated preacher 
in the first parish. 

The following is a S. Western view of the central part of Stough- 



STOUQHTON, 




South-TV est cm viav of Stoughton, (^central part.) 

ton, showing two of the churches and some other hnildings in tlic 
vicinity. There are 4 churches, 1 Universahst. 1 Congregational, 
1 Methodist, and 1 Baptist. Population, 1,993. Distance, 10 
miles from Dedham, and 17 from Boston. "A large quantity of 
gunpowder was made here during the Revolutionary war, from 
salt-petre, the produce of the towns in its vicinity." The Stough- 
ton woollen and cotton factory was incorporated in 1815, with a 
capital of $^75,000. In 1837, there was one woollen mill, 2 sets 
of machinery ; 32,000 yards of satinet were manufactured, valued 
at ^35,000 ; two cotton mills for the manufacture of thread and 
twine. There were 174,900 pairs of hoots, and 53,2.50 of shoes, 
valued at $487,390 ; males employed, 495 ; females, 386. 

There was formerly a village of praying Indians in the limits of 
this town. The following is Gookin's account of the place. 

" The next town is Pakemitt or Punkapoag. The signification of the name is taken 
from a spring, that ariseth out of red earth. This town is situated south of Boston, 
about fourteen miles. There is a great mountain called the Blue Hill lieth north-east 
from it two miles ; and the town of Dedham about three miles north-west from it. 
This is a small town, and hath not above twelve families in it, and so about sixty 
souls. This is the second praying town. The Indians that settled here removed from 
Neponset Mill. The quantity of land belonging to this village is about six thousand 
acres; and some of it is fertile, but not generally so good as in other towns. Here 
they worship God and keep the Sabbath, in the same manner as is done at Natick, 
before declared. They have a ruler, a constable, and a school-master. Their ruler's 
name is Ahawton ; an old and faithful friend to the English. Their teacher is Wil- 
liam Ahawton, his son ; an ingenious person and pious man, and of good parts. 
Here was a very able teacher that died about three years since. His name was 
"William Awinian. He was a very knowing person, and of great ability, and of 
genteel deportment, and spoke very good English. His death was a very great rebuke 
to this place. This town hath wuhin this ten years lost by death several honest and 
able men ; and some have turned apostates, and removed from them; which dispen- 
sations of God have greatly damped the flourishing condition of this place. Here it 
was that Mr. John Eliot jun., before mentioned, preached a lecture once a fortnight, 
for sundry years, until his decease. In this village, besides their planting and keeping 
cattle and swine, and fishing in good ponds and upon Neponset river, which lieth near 
them ; they are also advantaged by a large cedar swamp ; wherein such as are labo- 
rious and diligent do get many a pound, by cutting and preparing cedar shinglss and 
cupboards, which sell well at Boston and other English towns adjacent." 



WBYMOUTH. 489 

WALPOLE. 

This town was set off from Dedham in 1724, and incorporated 
the same year. The Rev. Phihps Payson was settled here in 
1730, and continued in the ministry more than forty-seven years. 
He educated four sons, all of whom settled in the ministry. Mr. 
Payson died in 1778, and was succeeded in 1783 by Rev. George 
Morey. Rev. John P. B. Storer was settled colleague pastor with 
Mr. Morey in 1826. The second church was formed about the 
time of the settlement of Mr. Storer, and Rev. Asahel Bigelow 
was ordained pastor in 1828. 

Three considerable branches of Neponset river from Sharon, 
Foxborough, and Medfield unite in this town. There are 3 
churches, 2 Congregational and 1 Methodist. Population, 1,592. 
Distance, 10 miles from Dedham, 21 from Providence, and 20 
from Boston. In 1837, there were 3 cotton mills; spindles, 1,924, 
cotton consumed, 85,200 lbs.; cotton goods manufactured, 278,000 
yards, valued at ^46,500 ; males employed, 20 ; females, 39. Two 
woollen mills; 4 sets of machinery; wool consumed, 80,000 lbs.; 
cloth manufactured, 95,000 yards; value, $103,250; males em- 
ployed, 28 ; females, 25. Two paper-mills ; stock manufactured, 
155 tons ; value of paper, $12,000. Two air and cupola furnaces; 
iron castings made, 413 tons, valued at $41,300; hands employed, 
26; capital invested, $12,000. The value of hoes manufactured, 
$5,000; hands employed, 7; capital invested, $10,000; straw 
bonnets manufactured, 9,669 ; value, $19,338 ; value of twine 
manufactured, $6,666. 



AVEYMOUTH 



This place, the Wessagtisset of the Indians, is the oldest settle- 
ment in Massachusetts, except Plymouth. " In 1622, Thomas 
Weston, a merchant of good reputation in London, having pro- 
cured for himself a patent for a tract of land in Massachusetts 
Bay, sent two ships, with 50 or 60 men, at his own charge, to settle 
a plantation. Many of the adventurers being sick on their arrival 
at Plymouth, most of the company remained there during the 
greater part of the summer, and were treated with hospitality and 
kindness by the inhabitants. Some of their number, in the mean 
time, finding a place in the Bay of Massachusetts, named Wessa- 
gusset, which they judged convenient for a settlement, the whole 
company removed to it, and began a plantation." This was 
rather of a disorderly company, there being, as it is stated, "many 
of them rude and profane," and being badly governed, fell into 
disorder, and experienced much suffering from their extravagance 
and conduct towards the natives, such as taking their corn, &c. 
The Indians were so incensed against them that they entered into 
a conspiracy to destroy the Avhole company. This was prevented 
by the daring exploit of Capt. Standish, some account of which is 



49a 



WE YM OUTH. 



given on the 17th page of this work. Such, however, was the 
reduced state of the colony, and their danger from the natives, 
that it was deemed prudent to break up the settlement. It appears, 
however, there were a few inhabitants here in 1624, as it is stated 
"that the few inhabitants of Wessagusset receiving an accession 
to their number from Weymouth, in England, the town is sup- 
posed to have hence been called Weymouth." In 1635, a Mr. 
Hull and 21 families joined the settlement. Mr. Hull was a 
minister from England, and appears to have been their first 
preacher. This town Avas attacked by the Indians in Philip's 
war, in 1676, and 7 or 8 houses were burnt. 




Nortktr/L lu/v of il'tymoulk Village. 



The above is a view of the village of Weymouth, as seen from 
near the residence of Minot Thayer, Esq., whose house appears 
on the left of the engraving. The church appearing on the right 
is called the Union church ; this, with the house of Mr. Thayer, 
are within the limits of the town of Braintree. Ship-building, to 
some extent, is carried on in this place; vessels of 400 tons have 
been launched above the bridge, over Maniquot river. This 
village (about one third of which is in the limits of Braintree) is 
15 miles from Dedham, 5 from Randolph, and 10 from Boston. 

The surface of the town is undulating and stony, and the soil 
generally good. It has a good landing-place for vessels of light 
burthen; about 800 tons of shipping belong to the place, and it is 
estimated that about half a million of dollars' worth of boots and 
shoes are manufactured in the town. The "Union Bank" of 
Weymouth and Braintree, with a capital of ^100,000, is located 
here. There are 3 houses of worship, 2 Congregational, and 1 
Methodist. Population, 3,387. In 1837, there were 70,155 pairs 
of boots and 242.083 pairs of shoes manufactured in this town, 
the value of which was $427,679 ; males employed, 828 ; females. 
619, value of leather tanned and curried, $42,500. 



WRENTHAM. 491 

WRENTHAM. 

This town was originally included within the limits of Dedham, 
and was set off in 1661, when there were only sixteen families. 
It was incorporated in 1673. There was no church formed here 
till 1692, when Rev. Samuel Mann, the first minister, was ordained. 
Mr. Mann preached to the few families here in a comparative wilder- 
ness, but, in consequence of Philip's war, in 1676, they were obliged 
to abandon their settlements for more than four years. When they 
returned, they prevailed upon Mr. Mann to accompany them. He 
shared with them all their difficulties and privations, left a numerous 
posterity, and died in 1719, in the forty-ninth year of his ministry. 
He was succeeded by Rev. Henry Messenger, who continued in 
the ministry nearly 32 years. Rev. Joseph Bean Avas the next 
minister ; he was settled in 1750, and died in 1784, and was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. David Avery, who was dismissed in 1794, and 
died in Virginia. Rev. Elisha Fisk was his successor. The 
Second Church and Society in North Wrenthatn were formed 
previous to the instalment of Rev. John Cleveland, in 1798 ; he 
continued pastor for more than sixteen years in North Wrentham, 
and died in 1815, aged 65. He was succeeded by Mr. Field, who 
continued pastor about three years, and then resigned. Mr. 
Thatcher was his successor, and was ordained in 1823. In 1830, 
Mr. Thatcher and a part of the church seceded, and formed them- 
selves into "a distinct and separate church." The Baptist 
meeting-house was built in 1767 ; the north meeting-house was 
completed in 1804. 

The first English inhabitant in Wrentham was one Mr. Shears. 
In Mr. Bean's Century Sermon, preached in 1773, it is stated that 
the town was named Wrentham, because some of the first settlers 
were from a town of that name in England. The first English 
person born in the town was Mehitabel Shears, daughter of Sam- 
uel Shears. The first person buried in the town was an infant 
son of John Ware, Feb. 10th, 1673. In Philip's war, after the 
inhabitants had left the town, the Indians burnt all the houses but 
two ; these were saved, it is stated, on account of persons having 
the small-pox in them, of which fact the Indians, by some means, 
became acquainted. After the Indian war was over, the following 
persons had their names affixed to an instrument engaging to 
return. 

Eleazer Metcalf, Eleazer Gay, Samuel Man, James Mosman, 

Robert Ware, Daniel Whright, John Ware, Joseph Kingsbury, 

William Mackneh, Samuel Fisher, Nathaniel Ware, Samuel Shears. 

Daniel Haws, John Payne, Cornelius Fisher, 

John Aldiss, Benjamin Rocket, Michael Willson, 

Wrentham is a pleasant village, consisting of about 40 or 50 
dwelling-houses, a Congregational church, a bank, and an acade- 
my. In the cut the church is seen on the left ; the Wren- 
tham Bank is the first building standing northward. Day's 
Academy, in this place, was incorporated hi 1806. Population, 

66 



WRENTHAM 




Western view of the central part of IVrentham. 

2,817. Distance, 15 miles from Dedham, and 27 from Boston. 
The central part of North Wrentham is abont 4 miles distant from 
the place represented in the engraving. There are 4 churches in 
the limits of the town, 3 Congregational and 1 Baptist. In 1837, 
there were 4 cotton mills, 2,252 spindles; 315,000 yards of cotton 
goods manufactured; value, $68,000; males employed, 50; 
females, 38. One woollen mill; cloth manufactured, 12,745 yards; 
value, i^l2,745. Straw bonnets manufactured, 35,126; value, 
^77,815. Boots manufactured, 10,155 pairs; shoes, 150 pairs, 
valued at $18,675. Boots manufactured, 200; value, $8,000; 
hands employed, 13. 

The storm of the 23d of September, 1815, raged here with vio- 
lence ; many buildings were damaged, some thrown down, and 
great injury was done to the forest trees. In Rev. Mr. Fisk's 
sermon, preached in 1823, he says : '• One fact has been noticed, 
and it may be proper to mention it, what the etlect of this tempest 
was supposed to have on wells of water.* It is probable, how- 
ever, that not the wind, but the earthquake, produced the change." 
" The wind blew with great violence from the south-east, from 
eight or nine o'clock in the morning until noon ; after that hour it 
began to subside." 



The following inscriptions are copied from the grave-yard in 
this place : 

In memorj^ of the Rev. Mr. Joseph Bean, pastor of the 1"' church in Wrentham, 
•who died Feb. 12"'> 1784, in y= Gtj'h year of his age. 

Near half an age wnth every good man's praise, 
Among his ilock y shepherd passed his days. 



* The eflFect on the water whicli Mr. Fisk refers to is that the depth of water ia 
some instances varied after this storm ; also that wells which heui previously furnished 
ioft water have ever since produced hard water. 



PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 493 

The friend, y comfort of y» sick & poor, 
Want never knocked unheeded at his door. 
Oft when his duty call'd disease and pain 
Strove to confine him, hut they strove in vain. 
All mourn his death ; his virtues long they try'<i_ 
They knew not how they lov'd him till he dy'd. 

In memory of I\Ir. Ebenezer Hawes, who departed this life April lO'i-- 1812, in the 
91"' year of his age. 

Of "no distemper, of no blast he dy'd, 
But fell like autumn fruit that mellow'd long, 
E'er wonder'd at why he no sooner dropt ; 
Fate seem'd to wind him up for fourscore years. 
Yet restless ran he on ten winters more. 
Till, like a clock worn out with eating time, 
The wheels of weary life at last stood still. 



In memory of Mr. Benjamin Day, who died Feb. 26th, 1816, aged 90 years and 8 
months. He was distinguished for mdustry, economy, justice, benevolence and piety. 
He was the principal benefactor to Day's Academy, and gave a fund for the support 
of the communion-table. His other deeds of charity were numerous ; while he has 
gone to his rest his usefulness continues. 

My dust lies here, my better part's above. 

And lives, so I, not Death, the Conqueror prove ; 

What I possess secures me what's to come, 

I\Iy clay shall be refined and sent for home. 



Hie jacet corpus domini Ludovici Coknette armigeri Gallic iexercitus Gallici nobi- 
lis. Obiit octavo Martii 1788, sua; retatis quadragesimo sexto. 

[Here lies the body of Lewis Coknette, Esq., a nobleman of France, and an officer 
in the French army. He died on the 8th of March, 1788, in the 46th year of his age.(] 



PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 

Plymouth County contains the oldest settlement in New Eng~ 
lund, and was a separate colony till the appointment of Sir Edmund 
Andross as governor-general, in 1685. In this year, the colony was 
divided into three counties, Plymouth, Barnstable and Bristol. In 
1692, it was permanently united with the colony of Massachusetts. 
There are no rivers of much importance in the county ; the prin- 
cipal streams are North river, which flows into Massachusetts 
bay, and several branches of Taunton river. Tltere are no eleva- 
tions of sufficient height to receive the name of mountains. The 
surface of the county is generally level, and though there is some 
fertile land, sandy and unproductive tracts prevail to a great ex- 
tent, particularly in the southern part. This county has some 
foreign commerce ; but its shipping is principally engaged in the 
fishing business and coasting trade. Ship-building is a very im- 
portant branch of business, there being more persons in this busi- 
ness than in any other county in the state. The value of vessels 
built for five years preceding 1837 was ^2,061,440; hands em- 
ployed, 1,432. The manufacture of boots and shoes is carried on 
to a great extent. Iron ore is found to some extent. The follow- 
ing is a list of the .towns, which are 21 in number. 



494 A B I N G T O N . 

Abington, Hanover, Middlehorough, Scituate, 

Bridgewater, Hanson, N. Bridgewater, Wareham, 

Carver, Hingham, Pembroke, W. Bridgewater. 

Duxbury, Hull, Plymouth, 

E, Bridgewater, Kingston, Piympton, 

Halifax, Marshfield, Rochester, 

In 1820, the population of this county was 38,136 ; in 1830, it 
was 42,993 ; in 1837, it was 46,253. 



ABINGTON. 



It is supposed that the first settlements in this town commenced 
in 1668 or '9. The first grant made by the Plymouth colony 
within this town was to Mr. Nathaniel Souther, in 1654. In 1664, 
another grant was made to his heirs and to the heirs of Clement 
Briggs. After the year 1672, the heirs of Phineas Pratt had grants 
located here. In 1656, a tract, three miles square, from Accord 
pond southerly, above Scituate, was granted to Mr. Hatherly and 
others. In 1668, a tract two miles long by three fourths of a mile 
wide was sold by the colony to James Lovell, John Holbrook, and 
Andrew Ford, of Weymouth, for 231., above Mr. Hatherly's grant, 
and adjoining the colony line. Previous to 1660, Lieut. Peregrine 
White, of Marshfield, had a grant, which is described as being 
between two brooks, in the fork of them, the Indian names of 
which are given in the records, which proves them to be the Beaver 
brook and the one east of it ; by this fact is it ascertained that the 
Indian name of Abington was Manamooskeagin, a word which 
signifies " much or many beavers." The first minister of the first 
church was Rev. Samuel Brown, who was ordained in 1714; his 
successor was Ezekiel Dodge, who was ordained in 1750. Mr. 
Dodge was succeeded by Rev. Samuel Niles, who was ordained 
in 1771, and died in 1814. The next minister was Rev. Holland 
Weeks, who was installed here in 1815. In 1808, a number of the 
inhabitants of the south part of Abington, and of the east of 
Bridgewater, were incorporated as the " Union Calvinistic Soci- 
ety ;" the Rev. Daniel Thomas was ordained their pastor the same 
year. In 1813, " The Third Society in Abington " was incorpo- 
rated, and Rev. Samuel W. Colbourn was installed pastor. 

Abington is perhaps the best grazing town in Plymouth county. 
It has generally a moist and strong soil, and the township is the 
elevated land between Massachusetts and Narragansett bays. 
The south-eastern section of the town is rather swampy as well as 
rocky. Hence the popular name, " Little Comfort," has been 
used for that region. In the north-eastern section is a long ridge 
of elevated pasture, of good soil, still called, from its original 
growth, " Beech Hill." There are large tack factories in this 
place ; and the value of shoes manufactured in this town has been 
«stimated at $500,000 annually. There are 4 churches, 3 Congre- 



BRIDGEWATBR. 495 

gational, and 1 Baptist. Population, 3,057. Distance, 22 miles 
N. W. of Plymouth, 8 S. of Weymouth Landing, IS north-easterly 
of Taunton, and 19 miles S. S. E. of Boston. In 1837, there were 
98,081 pairs of boots and 526,208 pairs of shoes manufactured 
in this town, valued at $746,794 26; males employed, 847; 
females, 470. 



BRIDGEWATER. 

The ancient town of Bridgewater was purchased of the Indians 
by Capt. Miles Standish and others, and formed then a part of 
Duxbury. '■'■ Ousam^qidn, sachem of the Contrie of Pocanauket," 
(as it is expressed in the original deed,) " granted, <fcc. a tract of 
land usually called ^aughtnc/cet, extending in length and the 
breadth thereof as followeth, that is to say : from ye weare att 
Saughtuckett seven myles due east, and from said weare seven 
(miles) due west, and from said weare seven myles due north, 
and from said weare seven miles due south,''' &c. This deed was 
signed in 1649. Ousamequin, the sachem mentioned above, was 
the great sachem Massasoit, who adopted this name during the 
latter part of his life. The consideration for which the sachem 
granted the above land was as follows : — " 7 Coats, a y^- and half 
in a coat, — 9 Hatchets, — 8 Howes, — 20 Knives, — 4 Moose Skins, 
— 10 yds. and half of Cotton." This contract is said to have been 
made and executed on a small rocky hill, anciently called Sachem's 
Rock, a little south of Whitman's mills in E. Bridgewater. The 
wear which they first established as their center was a little above 
the mills, near the ancient fording place. 

The ancient town of Bridgewater, which was incorporated in 
1656, was very extensive, and embraced within its limits four 
townships, which now bear the same name. In 1790, before its 
division, it contained 9,754 inhabitants. The south parish of the 
ancient Bridgewater now constitutes the town of that name. It 
was incorporated as a second precinct in 1716, and the partition 
line was run easterly and westerly across the town, leaving much 
of the largest part on the northerly side, "regard then being had 
to the erection of other parishes in future." The first meeting- 
house was built in 1717, and Rev. Benjamin Allen, their first 
pastor, was ordained the next year. His successor was John 
Shaw, who was ordained in 1731, and died in 1791, in the 60th 
year of his ministry. Mr. Shaw's successor was Zedekiah San- 
ger, D. D. 

Bridge wa'ter contains some of the best lands in Plymouth county. 
Taunton river, which washes the southern border of the town, is 
a stream of some importance ; vessels have been built upon it of 
150 tons burthen, and floated down its current during high water 
in freshets. There are in the town large factories of anchors, nails, 
machinery, cotton ginns, boots and shoes. Iron ore is found. 



496 



B R I D G E W A T E R . 




Northern, view of Bridgervattr. 

The above shows the appearance of Bridge water, as it is seen 
on the elevated ground about one mile nortlnvard of the village, 
on the road from East Bridgewater. This is a pleasant village, 
having 3 churches (2 Congregational and 1 New Jerusalem) and 
an academy. Distance, IS miles from Plymouth. 10 from Taun- 
ton, and 27 from Boston. Population, 2.092. In 1S37. tliere were 
manufactured 3,124 pairs of hoots, and 53.800 pairs of shoes, 
the value of which was ,f 57,317: males employed, 150; females, 
66. There were 2 air and cupola furnaces; 400 tons of iron castings 
made, valued at $30,000; two nail factories; 1,000 tons of nails 
manufactured, value, $60,000 ; hands employed. 30. Two manu- 
factories of cotton ginns ; value of ginns manufactured, $22,500; 
hands employed, 30; capital invested, $42,000. Two forges; 140 
tons of bar iron and anchors manufactured ; value, $17,000. One 
rolling and machine shop, whicli employed 60 hands; there was 
also a tack manufactory, which employed 12 hands. 

The following inscriptions are copied from Alden's Collection. 

Beneath are deposited the remains of Lieut. Joshua Alden, who died 21 March, 
1809, in the 80 year of his age. He led a sober and regular lile, was a friend to 
peace and good order, a steady attendant on publick worship, and a valuable member 
of society. In his last will and testament, after some deductions, he bequeathed a 
tenth part of his property to the South Congregational society in Bridgewater, of which 
one hundred dollars were for the use of the church, of which he was a member, two 
hundred dollars for the encouragement of psalmody, and the remainder for the fund 
of said society. To perpetuate his memory, and to express the gratitude due to an 
example so worthy of imitation, it has been thought fit to erect this monument. 



Beneath are deposited the remains of the Hon. Nathan IMitchell, Esq., in wliom 
prudence and economy, benevolence and piety, were happily and conspicuously united ; 
whose open disposition procured him confidence and esteem in jirivate life, while his 
patriotism, integrity, and strong natural abilities, repeatedly advanced him by the 
suffrages of a virtuous people to a seat in government ; who in various capacities 
served his town and country with fidelity and honour ; and, through life, sustained 
the character of a devout, exemplary christian, an obliging neighbour, a kind husband, 
and tender parent. He died with the small-pox, 2 IMarch, 178'.», in the 60 year of his 



G A R V K B . 497 

age, beloved and lamented. His widow and children, to record their gratitude and the 
virtues of the deceased, have erected this monument. 



Beneath are deposited the remains of Deacon Isaac Lazeli,, who departed this life 
20 June, 1810, in the 54 year of his age, with a comfortable hope of future happiness, 
having a firm belief of the truth of tlie gospel ; and, during the days of his health, 
he was anxious lo promote the improvement, interest, and happiness of society. To 
commemorate his virtues and express the gratitude of his relatives, they have erected 
this monument. 



Sacred to the memory of Rev. John Shaw, almost sixty years a faithful pastor of 
the second church of Christ in this town, who departed this life on the twenty-ninth 
of April, 1791, aged 83 years. man, greatly beloved ! thou shalt rest and stand in 
thy lot at the end of days. 



CARVER, 



Carver was incorporated in 1790; it was previously the second 
parish in Plympton, and derives its name from that of the first 
governor of Plymouth colony. It appears that as early as 1637, 
'•Lakenham Farm," now in the limits of Carver, was granted 
to Mr. Jenny, of Plymouth, Avho was an assistant. In 1640, 
'' Colebrook South Meadows " and " Lakenham West Meadows " 
were granted to divers persons. At this early period some scat- 
tered cottages began to extend on the western precincts of the 
township of Plymouth, on the path to Namasket, and successively 
in 1650 and 1662. In 1664, South Meadows were purchased from 
the natives. In the year 1700, settlements were extended, when 
lands there sold at 2s. the acre. The south part of the territory 
was then called " Samson's country," from the sachem of it, for 
whom and his wife a reserve of 200 acres was made, 1705. Their 
privileges were " fishing in the brooks and ponds, to make tar and 
turpentine, and to hunt on any undivided lands; to cut poles, and 
to get bark in undivided cedar-swamps, to make houses," «fec. 

Carver comprises the greatest and the poorest territorial part of 
the town from Avhich it was taken, the original growth being 
chiefly pitch-pine, though there was a good proportion of red and 
black oak. There is a large tract of white cedar-swamp in the 
eastern section of the town, which yielded large supplies of that 
valuable wood. There are at least 12 ponds in the town, some of 
which furnish iron ore of a good quality. " A place called 
' Swan Holt ' by the first planters, a little south-east of Wenham 
Pond, denotes the former visits of that bird, the earliest harbinger 
of spring ; for before the ice is yet broken up, the swan finds an 
open resting-place among the ozier holts, while the kildee* flying 
over the land from the sea-shore, soon after confirms the vernal 
promise." Here, too, on the confines of the AVauconquag, among 
the high trees of the impenetrable forest, the eagle, the crane, and 
the bittern build their nests. There are a number of iron works 

* A species of plover, probably the " que ce qu'il dit " of the French. It may be 
added that kildee is the Danish word for spring.— Co/^. Mass. Hist. Soc. 4 vol. 2d Series. 



498 D U X B U R Y . 

in this town. In 1837, there were 2 air and cupola furnaces ; 300 
tons of iron castings were made, valued at $30,000. It is said 
that the first cast-iron tea-kettles Avere cast at Plympton, (now 
Carver,) between 1760 and 1765. Wrought-iron imported tea-ket- 
tles were used before a copper tea-kettle was first used at Plymouth, 
1702. There are 3 churches in this town, 2 Congregational and 
1 Baptist. Population, 990. Distance, 8 miles south-westerly of 
Plymouth, and 38 from Boston. 

The people of this place are almost wholly descendants of the 
first planters of Plymouth. Rev. Othniel Campbell, the first min- 
ister, was ordained in 1734. He was succeeded by Rev. John 
Howland, who was ordained in 1746, and died in 1804. Rev. 
John Shaw, his successor, was ordained in 1807. 



DUXBURY. 



DuxBURY was incorporated in 1637. At this time it included 
within its limits Pembroke, the greatest part of Marshfield, part 
of Kingston, and part of Bridgewater. Its Indian name was 
Mattakeeset, or Namasakeeset. '• The probable etymology of the 
present name is Dux and borough, as it is stated that it was named 
in honor of Capt. Standish, the dux or military leader of the colo- 
ny, and one of the first settlers of the place." The first settlers 
located themselves in the southern part of the town, which lies 
by the bay between this place and Plymouth. They probably 
chose this place on account of its being nearer Plymouth, and also 
on account of the soil, which at this spot is better than most other 
parts of the town. The first church, which was a very small 
building, stood near the water. The second building for public 
worship was erected a mile north, and stood about one hundred 
years. The next church was erected in 1784, being equally dis- 
tant from the southern and northern boundaries of the town. 

The soil of the town is generally sandy and unproductive, 
though there are some fertile spots. The town is bounded on the 
east by a bay three miles in width : this bay is bounded on the 
east by The Gurnet^ a peninsula or point of high land, originating 
from Marshfield, and extending about seven miles southward into 
the bay. On its southern extremity is situated the light-house. 
The first light-house here was erected by the province of Mas- 
sachusetts, in 1768, at an expense of £660, 17s. ; in 1801, this 
building was consumed by fire. The present light-house was 
erected by the United States, in 1803. It exhibits two lights, 
which are about 70 feet above the levei of the sea. There is near 
the point a farm of rich soil, which supports one family. There are 
in the town 2 woollen mills, an air and cupola furnace, a bank, 
the " Duxbury Bank," with a capital of $100,000, and an insu- 
rance company, with a capital of $75,000. There is a number of 
vessels belonging to this town, and the inhabitants are chiefly 



DUX BUR Y. 



499 



employed in commerce and the fisheries. There are 4 churches, 
2 Methodist, 1 Unitarian, and 1 Universahst. Population, 2,789. 
Distance, 6 miles north of Plymouth, and 29 south-east of Boston. 




South-western view of Duxbury. 

The above shows the appearance of Duxbury as it is entered 
from the south-west. The village is mostly built on a single street, 
about two miles in length, and consists of upwards of 100 dwell- 
ing-houses, situated on a gentle and somewhat of a sandy eleva- 
tion, above the sea. Bhie-fish river crosses the road in the northern 
part of the village, at which place most of the ship-building done 
in the village is carried on. Standish Hill, still called " Captain's 
Hill," is situated about two miles southerly from the central part 
of the village. In 1837, there were 46 vessels employed in the 
cod and mackerel fishery; tonnage, 2,590; there were 18,000 
quintals of codfish and 2,000 barrels of mackerel taken ; value of 
codfish, $55,548; value of mackerel, $14,000; hands employed, 
306. There were 1,000 pairs of boots and 42,334 pairs of shoes 
manufactured, valued at $56,917; males employed, 61; females, 
60. "Number of vessels built, 71 ; tonnage of the same, 11,711 ; 
value of the same, $845,240 ; hands employed, 897." 

Rev. Ralph Partridge was the first minister ; he was settled as early as the incorpo- 
ration of the town, and continued in the ministry till his death, in 1658. He had been 
a minister in the Church of England ; but " being hunted," as he expressed it, " like 
a partridge, upon the mountains, at last he resolved to get out of there, and take his 
flight to New England." He was a man of superior abilities, and suffered much on 
account of the poverty of his flock, but he did not forsake them. He was succeeded 
by Rev. Mr. Holmes, who was succeeded by Rev. Ichabod Wiswall, who continued 
pastor about thirty years. The next minister was Rev. John Robinson, who was 
settled in 1700, and continued in the ministry nearly forty years; after him was Rev. 
Saniucl Veazie, who was pastor about eight years. 31r. Veazie was succeeded by 
Rev. Charles Turner, who continued in the ministry seventeen j-^ears. Rev. Zedekiah 
Sanger, the next minister, was settled in 1776, but, on account of ill health, his pastoral 
relation was dissolved in 1785. The eighth minister, Rev. John AUyn, was ordained 
la 1788. 

Captain Miles Standish, the military hero of New England, was 
born in Lancashire, in England, about the year 1584, and was, it 

67 



600 EAST BRIDQEWATER. 

is said, heir apparent to a great estate. After having oeen for 
some time in the army in the Netherlands, he settled with Mr. 
.Robiris(SPtfs^congregation at Leyden, Though not a member of the 
"iwch, be embarked with the first company that came to New 
jlKnd, in 1620, and was chosen their mihtary commander. He 
was, it is said, of small stature, but of a fiery temper, and perhaps 
no man possessed a more daring or intrepid spirit. The hill so 
conspicuous in the south-east part of Duxbury, called Captain's 
Hill, or mount, was part of the farm OAvned by Standish. He died 
in Duxbury, in 1656. The following is from the 3d vol. of Alden's 
Collection. 

" In a very short time after the decease of Mrs. Standish, the captain was led to think, 
that, if he could obtain iMiss Priscilla 3Iullins, a daughter of Mr. William Mnllins, 
the breach in his family wonld be happily repaired. lie, therefore, according to the 
custom of those times, sent to ask Mr. Mullins' permission to visit his daughter. John 
Alden, the messenger, went and faithfully communicated the Mishes of the captain. 
The old gentleman did not object, as he might have done, on account of the recency 
of Captain Standish's bereavement. He said it was perfectly agreeable to him, but 
the young lady must also be consulted. The damsel was then called into the room, 
and John Alden, who is said to have been a man of most excellent form with a fair 
and ruddy complexion, arose, and, in a very courteous and prepossessing manner, de- 
livered his errand. Miss Mullins listened with respectful attention, and at last, after 
a considerable pause, fixing her eyes upon him, with an open and pleasant coun- 
tenance, said, Prithee, John, rvhy do you not speak for yourself? He blushed, and 
bowed, and took his leave, but with a look which indicated more than his diffidence 
would permit him otherwise to express. However, he soon renewed his visit, and it 
was not long before their nuptials were celebrated in ample form. From them are 
descended all of the name, Alden, in the United States. What report he made to his 
constituent, after the first interview, tradition does not iinfi)ld ; but it is said, how true 
the writer knows not, that the captain never forgave him to the day of his death." 



EAST BRIDGEWATER. 

This was a part of the town of Bridgewater till 1823. There 
were not many settlements in this part of ancient Bridgewater till 
1685, when it is found on record that there was a petition from 
Samuel Allen, William Brett. Isaac Harris, John Haward, jnn., Jona- 
than Hill, Thomas Whitman, and Samuel Allen, jim., praying for a 
road, and stating " that God, by his providence, had placed their 
habitations on the east side of the town, some two, and some three 
miles from the meeting-house, the mill, and the chief part of the 
town, and that they had a horse-bridge over Matfield river," since 
called " John's river," probably from John Haward, jr., who lived 
on its banks. In 1723, " the east end of the North parish, then 
so called, ever since called the West parish, together with nine 
persons of the South parish, namely, Barnabas Seabury, Thomas 
Latham, Nicholas Wade, Nathaniel Harden, Charles Latham, 
Thomas Hooper, William Conant, Isaac Lazell and Joseph Wash- 
burn, with their families and estates, were constituted a precinct, 
called the East parish." In 1724, Rev. John Angier was ordained 
their first minister. He died in 1787, in the 63d year of his minis- 
try. He was succeeded by his son, Samuel Angier, who was 



HALIFAX 



501 



ordained colleague with him in 1763. Mr. Angier was succeeded 
by Rev. James Flint, who was ordained in 1806. 




Western view uf East Bridi^^tivattr. 



The above shows the appearance of the central part of East 
Bridge water, as it is seen from the road westward of the village, 
which consists of about 25 dwelling-houses, a Congregational 
church, a bank, the " East Bridgewater Bank," and a number of 
mechanic shops. About one mile south from this place there is 
another village, containing about the same number of houses. This 
town has been somewhat distinguished as a manufacturing place. 
Cannon were cast here during the war of the revolution, which 
were of essential service to the American army. Small arms have 
also been manufactured in considerable quantities. There is good 
water power on a branch of the Taunton river Avhich passes through 
this town. In 1837, there was 1 cotton mill, 856 spindles; 180,636 
yards of cotton cloth were manufactured ; value, $>13,543 70. 
There were 15,100 pairs of boots and 263,000 pairs of shoes manu- 
factured, the value of which was ,$277,800: males employed, 
270; females, 144. One nail factory; 350 tons of nails were man- 
ufactured, valued at .$49.500 ; hands employed, 40 ; a manufactory 
of tacks ; hands employed, 57 ; gross value, }|33,000 ; value of 
leather curried, .f 20,800. There are two Congregational churches. 
Population, 1,927. Distance, 17 miles from Plymouth, 12 from 
Weymouth Landing, 12 from Taunton, and 25 southerly from 
Boston. 



HALIFAX. 

About 1733, some of the inhabitants of the north of Plympton, 
the north-east of Middleborough, and the south of Pembroke, built 
a meeting-house, and became incorporated as a town in 1734, by 



602 HANOVER. 

the name of Halifax. About this period, many towns in British 
America adopted the name of HaUfax, probably in compliment to 
the Earl of Halifax, or it may be in some instances from a town 
of that name in England. The people of Halifax are, with a few 
exceptions, direct descendants of the first Plymouth settlers. Some 
of the most common names in the town were, Thomson, Water- 
man, Bosworth, Briggs, and Sturtevant. The first minister was 
Rev. John Cotton, who was ordained in 1735. His voice became 
impaired, and he resigned in 1756. He died in civil office, in Ply- 
mouth, his native town, in 1789. He was the author of a " History 
of Plymouth Church." Mr. Cotton was succeeded by Rev. Wilham 
Patten, who was ordained in 1757. Rev. Ephraim Briggs was the 
next pastor ; he was ordained in 1769, and died in 1801, and was 
succeeded by Rev. Abel Richmond the same year. 

The ponds in this town cover 1,700 acres. 3Ioonpo7iset Pond, in 
the north part, is two miles long, and more than half a mile wide. 
The Wi}i?iatiixei stresim, after passing Plympton, crosses the south- 
western section of this town, two or more miles, to its junction 
with the Bridgewater or Teticut Great river. It is a crooked, 
sluggish stream, liable to freshets, and varies from 14 to 30 feet in 
width. " Small as the Winnatuxet is, we are told of three vessels 
having been built on it, within the limits of this town, which 
passed to the sea at Newport ; one as early as 1754. built by a Mr. 
Drew." Sawing boards and plank, procuring masts, ranging 
timber and the making of shingles, were the employments of the 
first settlers ; this business is still followed to some extent by their 
descendants. In 1837, there was 1 cotton mill ; 1 woollen mill, 3 
sets of machinery ; 103,250 yards of cloth were manufactured, 
valued at .^82,600; males employed, 20 ; females, 21. There were 
30,600 pairs of shoes manufactured, valued at $27,540 ; males 
employed, 40. There are 3 churches, 1 Orthodox, 1 Universalist, 
and 1 Baptist. Population, 781. Distance, 12 miles westerly of 
Plymouth, 17 southerly of Weymouth Landing, and 28 miles 
southerly of Boston. 



HANOVER 



Hanover was incorporated in 1727. The first minister of the 
place was Rev. Benjamin Bass ; he was ordained in 1728, and 
continued in the ministry nearly twenty-eight years. He was 
succeeded by Rev. Samuel Baldwin, who continued about 23 
years, and was dismissed in 1780. Rev. John Mellen was the 
next minister; he was installed in 1784, and continued twenty-one 
years minister of Hanover. His successor was Rev. Calvin Chad- 
dock, who continued in the ministry in this place just twelve 
years. Mr. Chapin, the next pastor, continued five years ; Mr. 
Smith, the next in order, was settled in 1827 ; he also remained 
five years. Mr. Duncan, his successor, was settled in 1833. 



H I N G H A M . 503 

The principal village in this town is called Hanover Four Corners^ 
which contains an Episcopal church, an academy, a number of 
stores, and perhaps about 20 dwelling-houses in the vicinity. This 
place is about 14 miles from Plymouth, 9 from Scituate Harbor, 
and 20 from Boston. Besides the Episcopal, tliere are 1 Congrega- 
tional and 1 Baptist church in the limits of the town. Population, 
1,435. In 1837, there were 12,000 pairs of shoes manufactured, 
valued at $10,.500 ; males employed, 35 ; females, 26. There 
were 3 forges ; 130 tons of bar iron were manufactured ; hands 
employed, 14. Two air and cupola furnaces, 2 anchor shops, 1 
tack factory, at which 8 hands were employed. Considerable 
business is done in ship-building. 



HANSON. 



This town was formerly included within the limits of Pembroke. 
It was incorporated in 1820. Rev. Gad Hitchcock, D. D., was 
ordained the first minister of the place, in 1748, and continued in 
the office of pastor fifty-five years, and lived to the age of 83. 
" He was sociable, friendly, and hospitable ; esteemed as a man of 
talents, and many in his old age profited by his instructions." 
Rev. George Barstow was successor and colleague with Dr. Hitch- 
cock, and continued the pastoral relation eighteen years, and died 
in 1821, aged 51 years. He was succeeded by the Rev. Mr. 
Howland. 

In 1837, there were 48,000 pairs of shoes manufactured in this 
town, valued at $40,000; males employed, 180; females, 240. 
There were 3 nail factories ; 48 tons of nails were manufactured, 
valued at $6,240. Population, 1,058. Distance, 15 miles from 
Plymouth, 15 from Weymouth Landing, and 24 from Boston. 
There are 3 churches in the town, 1 Congregational, 1 Baptist, and 
I Universalist. 



HINGHAM 



This town is said to have been settled in 1635, which is the date 
of the earliest record to be found of the proceeding of planters in 
relation to the disposal of lands. The exact date when the first 
English people settled here cannot be ascertained. Among some 
private papers there is a " list of the names of such persons as 
came out of the town of Hingham and towns adjacent, in the 
county of Norfolk, Eng., and settled in Hingham, New Eng.," 
from which it appears there were inhabitants here as early as 
1633. In .Tune of the first-named year, grants were made to a con- 
siderable number of individuals, and on the 18th of Sept., 30 of the 
inhabitants drew for house-lots, and received grants of other lands 
for the purpose of pasture, tillage, &c. The following is a list of 



504 



H I N G H A M. 



the first settlers of HinghaiTij with the year in which lands were 
granted them in the town : 

John Foulsham, 
Henry Chaniberlin, 
Stephen Gates, 
George Knights, 
Thomas Cooper, 
Matthew Gushing, 
John Beal, jr., 
Francis James, 
Philip James, 
James Buck, 
Stephen Payne, 
William Pitts, 
Edward Mitchell, 
John Sutton. 
Stephen Lincoln, 
Samuel Parker, 
Thos. Lincoln, farm., 
Jeremiah Moore, 
Mr. Henry Smith, 
Bozoan Allen, 
Matthew Hawke, 
William Ripley, 
John Buck, 
Thomas Jones, 
Thomas Lawrence, 
John Stephens, 
John Stod<lard, 
Wid. Martha Wilder, 
Thomas Thaxter. 

1639. 
Anthony Hilliard, 
John Prince. 



1()35. 
Joseph Andrews, 
Thomas Chubbuck, 
Henry Gibbs, 
Edmund Hobart, sen 
Edmund Hobart, jr., 
Joshua Hobart, 
Kev. Peter Hobart, 
Thomas Hobart, 
>^icholas Jacob, 
'^ Thos. Lincoln, w'eav. 
Ralph Smith, 
Jonas Austin, 
Nicholas Baker, 
Clement Bates, 
Richard Betscome, 
Benjamin Bozworth, 
William Buckiand, 
James Cade, 
Anthony Cooper, 
John Cutler, 
John Farrow, 
Daniel Fop, 
Jarvice Gould, 
Wm. Hersey, 
Nicholas Hodskin, 
Thomas Johnson, 
Andrew Lane, 
Wm. Large, 
Thomas Loring, 
George Ludkin, 
Jeremy Morse, 
William Nowlton, 
John Otis, 
David Phippeny, 
John Palmer, 



John Porter, 
Henry Rust, 
John Smart, 
Francis Smith, 
John Strong, 
Henry Tultil, 
William Walton, 
Thomas Andrews, 
William Arnall, 
George Bacon, 
Nathaniel Baker, 
Thomas Collier, 
George Lane, 
George I\Iarsh, 
Abraham Martin, 
Nathaniel Peck, 
Richard Osborn, 
Thomas Wakely, 
Thomas Gill, 
Richard Ibrook, 
William Cockerum, 
William Cockerill, 
John Fearing, 
John Tucker. 
1636. 
John Beal, senr., 
Anthony Eames, 
Thomas Hammond, 
Joseph Hull, 
Richard Jones, 
Nicholas Lobdin, 
Richard Langer, 
John Leavitt, 
Thomas Lincoln, 
Adam Mott, 
Thomas Minard, 



John Parker, 
George Russell, 
William Sprague, 
George Sprague, 
Thomas Underwood, 
Samuel Ward, 
Ralph Woodward, 
John Winchester, 
William Walker. 

1637. 
Thomas Barnes, 
Josiah Cobbit, 
Thomas Chaffe, 
Thomas Clapp, 
William CarJslye, 
Thomas Dimock, 
Vinton Dreuce, 
Thomas Hett, 
Thomas Joshlin, 
Aaron Ludkin, 
John Morrick, 
Thomas Nichols, 
Thomas Paynter, 
Edmund Pitts, 
Joseph Phippeny, 
Thomas Shave, 
Ralph Smith, 
Thomas Turner, 
John Tower, 
Joseph Underwood, 
William Ludkin, 
Jonathan Bozworth. 

1638. 
Mr. Robert Peck, 
Joseph Peck, 
Edward Gilman, 



In 1635, Rev. Peter Hobart and his associates from Hingham. in the county of Nor- 
folk, in England, began a settlement in this town at a place called Bear Cove, which 
was afterwards called Hingham. " The house-lots of the settlers, as already stated. 
were drawn 18 September, 1635. The Rev. Peter Hobart was there on that day, and 
drew a lot with the twenty-nine." Blr. Hobart continued to discharge the duties of 
his office till his death, in 1679, at the age of seventy-five. He was a man of piety 
and talents, and had four sons, who all became respectable ministers. Rev. John 
Norton was ordained colleague pastor with JMr. Hobart a few months before his 
decease. Mr. Norton died in 171(i, and was succeeded by Rev. Ebenezer Gay, who 
continued in the ministry nearly sixty-nine years, and died in 1787, at the age of 
nearly ninety-one years. Rev. Henry Ware, D. D., the successor of Mr. Gay, was 
ordained about seven months of his decease, and continued about eighteen years, when 
he resigned to accept the Hollis professorship of divinity in Harvard University. 
Rev. Joseph Richardson, his successor, was settled in 1806. The Second church in 
Hingham was formed in 1745 ; Rev. Daniel Shute. D. D., their first minister, was 
ordained the next year. He was pastor here more than fifty-five years. His sight 
failing him, he ceased from his public labors in 1799, and died in 1802. Dr. Shute 
had a seat in the convention which formed the Constitution of the United States. 
Rev. Nicholas B. Whitney succeeded Dr. Shute in 1800. The Third church was 
formed in 1807, and Rev. Henry Colman, the first minister, was ordained the same 
year. Rev. Charles Brooks, the next minister, was ordained in 1621. 

The following is a representation of the ancient Congregational 
church in the village of Hingham, the oldest house of worship now 



H I N 9 H A M 



505 




standing in New England. It was erected in 1680, was 55 feet in 
length, 45 in breadth, and the height of the posts was 20 feet. It 
cost the town the sum of £430 and the old house. Two additions 
have been made to the building; the first about the year 1730, and 
the second in 1755. These additions were made, however, with- 
out materially altering the external appearance and form of the 
house. It is yet in a good state of preservation, and its frame of 
oak bears no mark of dilapidation or decay. It cannot now be 
ascertained at what particular time the first meeting-house was 
erected : it was, however, a small building, surrounded by a pali- 
sado, for the protection of the worshippers from Indian assault. Its 
situation was very near, if not the spot, on which the post-office 
now stands, near the academy. Around it, upon the declivities of 
the hill, the dead were buried, where, after a repose of nearly two 
centuries, they were disturbed by the march of improvement. 
" The meeting-house is gone — the soil upon which it rested is gone 
— the worshippers are gone. Not a solitary monument points out 
the spot where were deposited the remains of the brave, the 
virtuous, the learned, who laid the foundation of our social im- 
provements and religious blessings." 

The village of Hingham is built at the head of a bay, which is 
an arm of the great bay of Massachusetts. Owing to its situation, 
it is rather irregularly built, embracing within its limits a number 
of sandy elevations. The township is seven miles in length, and 
about five in breadth. The soil in many parts of the town is rich 
and fertile. There are in Hingham 1 woollen factory, an iron 
foundry, a brass foundry, and salt works. In addition to these 
there is the usual variety of mechanical works, as is found in most 



606 KING HAM. 

towns of a similar size. Here is a printing-office and a bookstore, 
and a large number of traders in foreign and domestic goods. 
Ship-building is carried on in the town to considerable extent. 
About 80 sail of vessels belong to this place, which are engaged 
in the cod and mackerel fishery and the coasting-trade. Seve- 
ral regular packets ply between Hingham and Boston, and in 
the summer months a steamboat plies daily between the places. 
Derby Academy, a free school, and the Willard Private Academy, 
are highly respectable seminaries, and promise great privileges to 
parents. The Hingham Bank has a capital of $100,000. There 
is in this town a mutual insurance office, and a Savings bank. 
In 1837, there were 50 vessels employed in the cod and mackerel 
fishery ; tonnage, 2,894. Twenty-nine hundred quintals of codfish 
were taken ; value, $8,700. There were 14,4.36 barrels of mack- 
erel taken, valued at $105,000; hands employed, 450; "vessels 
built, 17; tonnage of the same, 2,170; value of the same, $73,780." 
There were 26,064 pairs of boots and 5,654 pairs of shoes manu- 
factured, valued at $55,967; males employed, 71; females, 51. 
One air and cupola furnace ; 150 tons of castings were made ; 
value, $15,000; the value of wooden ware manufactured was 
$30,000; hands employed, 80. There were 18,600 umbrellas 
manufactured, the value of which was ,$39,500 ; males employed, 
20; females, 53. Various other articles were also manufactured in 
the town. Population, 3,445. Distance, 26 miles from Plymouth, 
12 miles by water and 14 by land from Boston. 

In the year 1645, an unhappy controversy took place among the 
inhabitants respecting military affairs. The following account of 
the affair was taken from Lincoln's Centennial Address : 

" The cause of the difficulty was the election of a captain of the company of militia. 
Anthony Eames, who had been lieutenant, was first chosen, and was presented to be 
commissioned by tlie council. Before this was accomplished, a dissatisfaction arose 
with Eames, and Bozoan Allen, a man of considerable influence in town affairs, was 
selected. Eames and Allen had both been deputies in the general court. A com- 
mission was refused to both the candidates. In the mean time the subject was made 
a question for discussion in the church, but a majority of the inhabitants, and among 
them their pastor, adhered to Allen. The military company paraded under his com- 
mand, and, on account of some alleged misrepresentations, Eames was threatened 
mth excommunication from the church. He made complaint to the magistrates, four 
of whom met m Boston and issued warrants against five persons whom they supposed 
to be the principal offenders. Others were afterwards arrested, and on their refusal 
to give bonds for their appearance at court, two were committed. The general court 
being assembled before the court of assistants, Mr. Hobart and his friends, about 
ninety in number, presented a petition to the former, setting forth the arrest and com- 
mitment of their townsmen, as they alleged, for words spoken concerning the power 
of the general court, and their Uberties, and the liberties of the church. The petition- 
ers were required to designate the magistrate or magistrates whom they declared 
guilty of infractions upon the popular rights. They then charged Deputy Governor 
Winthrop with exercising too much power. 

" Upon this allegation, a full hearing was had ; and the decision was, that it was 
not sustained. The petition was voted false and scandalous, by magistrates and depu- 
ties ; but the latter would not agree to any censure. After much discussion and 
repeated conferences, resulting in no decisive measures, the magistrates proposed to 
refer the matter to the elders. This course was not assented to by the deputies. 
They were unwilling, and even voted not to impose any fines upon the petitioners 
unless the party which adhered to Eames were also fined, a disposition of the matter 
which would have been quite as equitable, probably, as if one of the parties had 



H 1 N G n A M . 607 

alone been adjudged to bear the whole weight of the displeasure of the government— 
and upon a rule, too, which, if adopted, in many of the cases of obstinate controversy, 
would often subserve the ends of justice. The final decision of the magistrates, with 
the concurrence of the deputies, was to impose fines u])on the petitioners, Lieut. Eames 
to be under admonition, and the Deputy Governor Winthrop to be acquitted of all 
that was alleged against him. The deputy governor delivered on the occasion ot 
his acquittal a very impressive speech upon the authority of magistrates and the liber- 
ties of the people. If we judge from the historians of the time, Mr. Hobart and a 
majority of our citizens appear to have carried their liberal principles to such an extent 
as to have endangered all wholesome authority ; but the reluctance of the deputies to 
impose fines leads us to believe that the point of controversy was not the immediate 
question which excited it, but the more general principles involved in the discussion 
of the powers of magistrates in reference to the rights of the people. Upon these im- 
portant principles, we have no reason to doubt that our pastor entertained liberal and 
correct opinions, yet he might have been indiscreet in his endeavors to promote them. 
"But the popular feeling had become so strong that the authority of the marshal in 
levying the fines upon the pastor and his friends was resisted ; and Mr. Hobart 
was, upon information, summoned to appear before the governor and council. Ha 
declined ajipearing, and by this course compelled the government to arrest him. He 
protested against this course, however, declaring ' that he could never know where- 
fore he was fined except it were for petitioning,' and ' that if he had broken any 
wholesome law not repugnant to the laws of England he was ready to submit to 
censure.' He was bound over to the court of assistants. He there appeared, and 
again claimed to know what law he had violated. He was told, after much importu- 
nity, that ' the oath he had taken was a law to him ; and besides the law of God 
which we were to judge by in case of a defect of an express law.' Mr. Hobart re- 
plied that the law of God admitted various interpretations. He demanded to be tried 
by a jury. The result of this trial was the imposition of a second fine on Mr. Hobsrt. 
On a subsequent occasion, when he attended the general court with the elders, to give 
their advice respecting public atTairs, he was advised by the governor to retire, because 
he had so much opposed authority ; and in 1647, when on a visit to Boston, to attend 
the solemnization of a marriage, the bridegroom being of Hingham, he was invited 
to preach. The magistrates sent to him to forbear, for this among other reasons — 
♦ that his spirit had been discovered to be adverse to our ecclesiastical and civil gov- 
ernment, AND HE WAS A BOLD MAN AND WOULD SPEAK HIS MIND.' " 

In King Philip's war, the town suffered in some degree from the 
incursions of the Indians. In a diary, kept by Mr. Hobart, it is 
noted that " on the 19th of April, 1676, John Jacob was slain 
by the Indians near his father's house. He Avent out with his 
musket to shoot the deer that trespassed upon a field of wheat, 
near the place where the meeting-house at Glad Tidings Plain 
is now situated. The Indians, who had secreted themselves in 
that neighborhood the night previous, discovered and shot Jacob 
near the field of wheat. He was found dead, and his musket was 
battered to pieces." The next day the Indians burnt the dwelling- 
houses of Joseph Jones, Anthony Sprague, Israel Hobart, Nathan- 
iel Chubbuck and James Whiton. As a precaution for the security 
of the inhabitants in case of assault by the Indians, garrison- 
houses were established in various parts of the town. There 
were also three forts, but the date of their erection cannot now 
be ascertained ; one of them situated on the hill, which at that 
time commanded the harbor, (the same of which the mounds are 
still visible in the burying-yard,) another at the place called Fort 
Hill, and another " on the Plain about a mile from the harbor." 
There is a frequent mention of disbursements for the soldiers in 
the selectmen's book of records about this time, 

68 



508 H I N G H A M . 

The following respecting Hingham is from the " Wonder-Worii- 
ing Providence of Zion's Saviour, in New England." 

" Al this time, also, came to shore the servant of Christ, Master Peter Hubbord, 
[Hobart] whom the Lord was pleased to make use of for feedin°: his people in this 
Wildernesse, being called to Office by the Church of Christ at the Towne of Hingham, 
which is scituate upon the Sea coasts South-east of Charles Eiver, being a place 
nothing inferior to their Neighbours for scituation, and tlie people have much profited 
themselves by transporting Timber, Planke and fliast for Shipping to the Towne of 
Boston, as also Ceder and Pine-board to supply the wants of other Towncs, and also 
to remote parts, even as far as Barbadoes. They want not Fish for themselves and 
others also. This Towne consisted of about sixty Families ; the forme is somewhat 
intricate to describe, by reason of the Seas waslmg crookes, where it beats upon a 
mouldering shore, yet they have compleat streetes in some places. The people joyned 
in Church covenant in this place were much about an hundred soules, but have been 
lessened by a sad unbrotherly contention which fell out among them, wasting them 
every way, continued already for seven yeares space, to the great griefe of all other 
churches, who held out the right hand of fellowship unto tliem in Brotherly commu- 
nion, which may (the Lord helping) demonstrate to all the true Churches of Christ 
the World throughout, although they be distanced by place or Nation, yet ought they 
never to take up such an Independent way, as to reject the advise and counsell oi 
each other,'' &c. 

Benjamm Lincoln, a major-general in the Revolutionary army, 
was a native of this town, born Jan. 23d, 1733. The following 
biographical sketch is taken from Lord's Lempriere's Dictionary : 

" His advantages for education were limited, and until the age of forty he was em- 
ployed in the pursuits of agriculture. He was, however, distinguished for judgment 
and intelligence, was the representative of the town in the provincial assembly, a 
colonel of the mihtia, secretary of the house of representatives, and a member of the 
council. In February, 1775, he was appointed a brigadier, and soon after major- 
general in the provincial army, and in February, 1777, a major-general on the conti- 
nental establishment. His services were conspicuous towards the close of that year 
in the northern campaign. He was second in command in the army which, under 
General Gates, captured the British under Burgoyne. On the day after the battle of 
Stillwater, he received a dangerous wound while reconnoitring. In the following yeai 
he was appointed by congress to take the command in the southern department, at the 
solicitation of the delegates from that portion of the Union. After a number of infe- 
rior operations, on the 20th June, 177it, he made an unsuccessful attack on the British 
post at Stone-ferry. He afterwards retired to Charleston, and attempted its defence, 
but M'as compelled, on the 12th of May, 1780, to capitulate. He was exchanged in 
November, and in the spring following joined the army on the North river. At the 
siege of Yorktown he commanded a central division, and shared largely in the dangers 
and triumphs of the day. He was designated to conduct the surrendering array to 
the field where their arms were deposited, and to see the conditions of the capitulation 
executed. In October, 1781, congress appointed him secretary of the war department, 
and afterwards, on several occasions, a commissioner to negotiate with the Indians. 
He resigned his office as secretary in October, 1783, and received, in a resolution of 
congre.ss, a flattering expression of their respect. After the establishment of peace, 
he returned to his native state, and in 1787 was appointed to command the troops em- 
ployed for the suppression of the insurrection in that state. He was also one of the 
commissioners to propose terms of indemnity to the insurgents. In 1788, he was 
chosen lieutenant governor. The following year he was a member of the convention 
which ratified the constitution of the United States, and was appointed collector of the 
ports of Boston and Charlestown. This office he held, and discharged its duties greatly 
to the ])ublic satisfaction, until the increased embarrassments arising from the restric- 
tions on commerce induced him to resign, in January, 1809. He died in the house in 
which he was born, May i'th, 1810, aged 78. General Lincoln was a member of the 
American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and president of the Society of Cincinnati 
of Massachusetts. He published several letters and essays, principally on subjects 
ronnected with natural history." 



KINGSTON. 609 

HULL. 

Hull is the least popnlons town in Massaclnisetts, and, except- 
ing Newburyport, the smallest in territory. The toAvnship com- 
prises the peninsula of Nunk/skef, which forms the sonth-eastern 
side of Boston harbor. The town is formed of five small hills, 
connected together by very narrow necks. On one of these hills is 
a well, ninety feet in depth, and is frequently almost full of water. 
The principal settlement is on Nantasket Head, about 9 miles 
south-east from Fiostoii, by water, and 22 by land, via Hingham. 
Population, ISO. From twelve to eighteen votes are usually given 
at the elections. 

Hull Avas incorporated in 1641, and was once a place of some 
note. In the records of the general court, in 1647, it is mentioned, 
" There being now divers fishermen and men of good ability in 
Hull, who may comfortably carry on the affairs of a town, they 
are enabled, by the authority of this court," (fee. It is believed 
that this place formerly had several Congregational ministers, the 
first of whom was Rev. Zechariah Whitman, who was a native 
of Milford, Con. He appears to have been settled here in 1670. 
Rev. Ezra Carpenter, and Rev. Samnel Veazie, who was settled in 
1753, appear to have been the next regular ministers. In 1837, 
there were 282 sheep; wool produced, 1,150 lbs.; and 2 establish- 
ments for the manufacture of salt, of which 3.600 bushels were 
made. 



KINGSTON, 



Kingston was set off as a parish from Plymouth, in 1717, by the 
name of Jones' River parish. It is supposed that the river in this 
place, and consequently the parish, received their names from 
Capt. Jones, of the ship May Flower, which landed the fa.thers at 
Plymouth. The inhabitants of the north part of Plymouth, with 
a small part of Plympton and Pembroke, formed the parish which 
was set off, which at that time consisted of eighty families. The 
persons who petitioned to be made a distinct parish were of the 
following names : — Bradford, Bryant, Cook, West, Hall, Cushman, 
Holmes, Eaton, Stetson, Fuller, Washburn, Everson, Mitchell, 
Hunt, Brewster, Little, Gray, Sturtevant, West, and Fish. The 
first minister ordained here was Rev. Joseph Stacy; this was in 
1720. His successor was Rev. Thaddeus Maccarty, who was or- 
dained in 1742, and dismissed in 1745. His dismission appears to 
have been occasioned by his being a follower and admirer of the 
celebrated Mr. Whitefield, who was itinerating through the conn- 
try, and causing great excitement among the people. The inhabit- 
ants at that period appear to have been prejudiced against Mr. 
Whitefield, and appointed a committee of eight persons to prevent 
itinerant preachers disturbing the peace of the town. Mr. Mac- 
carty was succeeded by Rev. William Rand, who was installed 



510 



KINGSTO N. 



here in 1746. The Rev. Zephaniah WiUis, the fourth minister, 
was ordained in 1780. 

The soil of Kingston is generally thin and barren. The north- 
ern part of the town is level ; but the south part is broken and 
uneven. The most elevated ground is Monk's Hill, in the south 
part of the town, near Plymouth, which commands an extensive 
prospect on every side. .Teremy Florio, an ingenious Englishman, 
introduced the art of casting vessels in sand into this place before 
the Revolution ; previous to that time all iron vessels were cast on 
clay moulds. Mr. Florio died in Plympton, in 1755, at the age of 
nearly ninety years. There are 3 churches in the place, 2 Con- 
gregational (1 of which is Unitarian) and 1 Baptist. Distance, 4 
miles N, W. of Plymouth, 5 S. of Duxbury, and 33 miles S. E. of 
Boston. Population, 1,371. The town was incorporated in 1726. 




South-eastern view of Kingston. 

The above shows the appearance of the village of Kingston, as 
seen from near the residence of Col. John Thomas, on the Plymouth 
road. Col. Thomas is the son of major-general Thomas, who 
perished in the service of his country at Chamblee ; his house was 
on the spot where his son now resides. Jones' river, a winding 
stream, passes at the foot of the elevated ground on which the 
principal part of the village is situated. The village consists of 
upwards of 50 dwelling-houses, uncommonly well built, and neat 
in their general appearance. The first building, with a spire, seen 
on the left, is the old Baptist church ; the building seen between 
the trees, with two spires, is the Unitarian church, which is the 
largest house of worship in the place, and is somewhat novel in its 
construction. The new Baptist church and the Orthodox Congre- 
gational church, without a spire, are to the eastward. In 1837, there 
were 19 vessels employed in the cod and mackerel fishery ; tonnage 
1,491 ; codfish caught, 14,214 quintals ; value, $42,242 ; mackerel 
caught, 886 barrels ; value, $6,348 j hands employed, 176. " Ves- 



MARSHFIELD. 611 

sels built, 19; tonnage of the same, 3,326; value of the same, 
$172,500; hands employed, 40." There were 3 forges; 96 tons 
of bar-iron were manufactured ; value, $9,600 ; there were 2 
nail factories and 1 axe, and 3 manufactories for cutlery. 

The following inscriptions are copied from monuments in the 
grave-yard by the Unitarian church : — 

Miss Lucy Little, deceased Sept. 29, 1756, aged 37 years 5 months. 
Reader ! beneath this monumental pile is laid 
What once was beauty and a spotless maid. 
Here was each virtue and each Grace combin'd ; 
Fair was her form, but fairer was her mind. 
So bright in her the sex's virtues shone, 
They seemed all center'd in this maid alone. 
The harmony of life thus kept intire, 
She joined at death the fair angelic quire ; 
The fair angelic quire with joy confest 
They ne'er had welcom'd a more charming guest. 
Led by th' admirLug throng, she takes her seat. 
And half an Angel Here, now shines above compleat. 

In memory of the Rev^- Mr. William Rand, died March y« H"" 1779, aged 79 years 
wanting 7 days. 

Here's one who long had ran the Christian Race ; 
Kindly reUev'd reclines his hoary head. 
And sweetly slumb'ring in this dark embrace 
Listens the welcome sound, " Arise y« dead." 



Here lies deposited what was mortal of Ann Warren Sever, daughter to the Hon. 
William Sever Esq., & Sarah his wife, who died Jany- y= 19"". 1788, Anno Etatis 25. 
" How oft I gaz'd prophetically sad, 
How oft I saw her dead while yet in smiles ! 
In smiles she sunk her grief to lessen mine. 
She spoke me comfort, & increased my pain." 



MARSHFIELD 



Marshfield was incorporated in 1640. The Rev. Edward 
Bulkley (the son of the lirst minister of Concord) was the first 
minister. He was ordained about the time the town was incorpo- 
rated. His successor was Rev. Samuel Arnold, who was settled 
here in 16.59, and continued in the ministry thirty-five years. 
Rev. Edward Thompson, the next in succession, was settled in 
1696 ; he was succeeded by Rev. James Gardner, in 1707, who 
continued in the ministry upwards of thirty-one years. His suc- 
cessors, Messrs. Hill, Green, and Brown, were all settled and dis- 
missed in a period of twenty-three years. Rev. William Shaw, 
D. D., the eighth minister, was settled in 1766, and continued in 
the pastoral office more than half a century. The first minister of 
the Second church was Rev. Atherton Wales, who was settled in 
1739 ; he was pastor fifty-six years, and died in 1795, aged ninety- 
two. Rev. Elijah Leonard was his successor. 

This town is pleasantly situated, having two considerable 
streams : one called North river, which divides the town from 
Scituate, and South river, a stream passing through the central 



512 



MIDDLEBOROUGH. 




South-western view of the Hon. Daniel Webster's House, in Marshfield 



part of the town. The above is a south-western view of the sum- 
mer residence of the Hon. Daniel Webster, situated in the southern 
part of this town, and is about 30 miles from Boston. His farm 
which is stated to consist of about 1,000 acres, comprises some of 
the best lands in the town. There is a considerable diversity of 
pleasant scenery in the vicinity, and a fine distant view of the 
ocean. " This town was originally a part of Plvmouth, and was 
formerly called Rexham. Peregrine White, the first English child 
born m New England, died in this town, July 20th, 1704, as-ed 83. 
A grandson of Governor Carver lived here to the age of 102, and 
in 1775 was at work in the same field u'ith his son, grandson' and 
great-grandson, who had also an infant son in the house, makint* 
five generations. Edward Winslow, some years governor of Ply^ 
mouth colony, resided in this town." In 1837. there Avere 2 cotton 
mills, 1,896 spindles; cotton cloth manufactured, 172,366 yards • 
value $21,800; males employed, 10; females, 42. There Avas also 
I air and cupola furnace, and 1 nail factorv. There are 6 churches 
3 Congregational, 1 Baptist, 1 Episcopal, and 1 Methodist. Popu- 
lation, 1,660. 



The following is from a monument in this town : 

Here lies the ashes of the reverend, learned, and pious Mr. Edward Tompson pas- 
tor of the church at Marshfield, who suddenly departed this life, 16 March, 1705, anno 
aetatis suae 40. 



Here, in a tyrani'.s hand, doth captive lie 

A rare synopsis of divinity. 

Old patriarchs, prophets, gospel bishops meet 



Under deep silence, in their windingsheet; 
All rest a while, in hopes, and full intent, 
When their king calls, to sit in parliament. 



MIDDLEBOROUGH 



This place before its incorporation, in 1660, went by its Indian 
name Namasket. The Indians were formerly numerous in this 



MIDDLEBOHOUGH. 



513 



township, being governed by a noted sachem called Tispacan. In 
(he account given of Middleborough in the 3d vol. of the Coll. 
Mass. Hist. Soc. the Rev. Isaac Backus says : 

" When our Ph'nioutli Fathers first sent two messengers to visit old Massasoit, in 
July, 1621, they lodj^ed the first night at Namasket, where so many Indians had died 
a few years before that the living could not bury the dead ; but ' their skulls And 
bones appeared in many places, where their dwellings had been.' Namasket is that 
part of Middleborough where the English began their plantation, and had increased 
to about sixteen families before Philip began his war, in June, 1675. As soon as it 
brake out, they removed away, as did also the friendly Indians, to Plymouth and other 
eastern places. Philip had been very conversant here ; and because his friend John 
Sausaman informed the English of his preparations for war, Sausaman was mur- 
dered on a frozen pond, at Assowamset, and the execution of his nuirderers hastened 
on the war. And in the time of it, Philip once sent an army to waylay Capt. Church, 
in Assowamset Neck, which is in the south part of Middleborough. He was also 
defeated in attempting to cross a river upon a tree which had fallen over it. This was 
the river between Middleborough and Bridgewater." 

Middleborough is one of the largest townships in the state, being 
15 miles in length, and averages about 9 in width, and is chiefly a 
pine plain. There are numerous ponds in the town, of which the 




Village of Four Corners, Middleborough. 

Assawamset and Long Ponds are the largest. The outlet of these 
ponds produces an extensive water-power. Bog iron ore was once 
extensively used in this town, till it was discovered that there was 
an abundance of much purer ore to be found in the Assawamset 
pond. There are also some indications of anthracite coal. There 
are in the town 8 houses of worship, 4 Baptist, 3 Congregational, 
and 1 Methodist. 

The above is a view of the village of Four Corners, the princi- 
pal settlement in Middleborough, as it is seen southward of the 
village, upon the AVareham road. The village consists of about 
50 dwelling-houses in the immediate vicinity of the Baptist church, 
and academy, the spires of which are seen in the distance in the 
central part of the engraving. This place is 15 miles from Ply- 



614 NORTH BRIDGEWATER. 

mouth, 20 from New Bedford, 11 from Taunton, 14 from Ware- 
hara, and 34 from Boston. Population, 5,005. In 1837, there 
•were 2 cotton mills, 2,384 spindles; 553,000 yards of cotton cloth 
were manufactured ; value, $39,710 ; males employed, 21 ; 
females, 67. There were 3 manufactories of shovels, spades, and 
forks ; value of articles manufactured, .|52,500 ; hands employed, 
42 ; capital invested, !$22,000 ; there were 2 forges, 1 air "and 
cupola furnace, and 1 nail factory ; 12,500 straw bonnets were 
manufactured, valued at i$40,505. Value of tacks manufactured, 
$13,000 ; 15 males and 4 females were employed. Value of boards 
and lumber, $11,112; value of shingles, $5,616. 

The first planters of Middleborough came mainly from Plymouth ; they returned 
here after Philip's war, and Mr. Samuel Fuller preached to them until a church was 
formed among them, and he was ordained their pastor, in 1694. He died, greatly 
lamented, in 1695, aged 66. Mr. Thomas Palmer was the second minister, but his 
habits were such that he was deposed from his office. The third minister was Rev. 
Peter Thacher, who was ordained in 1709, and was a faithful and successful minister 
for nearly thirty-five years ; his successor was Rev. Sylvanus Conant, who was ordained 
in 1745. Mr. Conant died of the small-pox, in 1777, and his successor was Rev. 
Joseph Barker, who was ordained in 1781. A second precinct was formed in the 
south-west part of Middleborough, including a part of Taunton, in 1719. About the 
year 1724, a church being constituted therein, Rev. Benjamin Ruggles was ordained 
pastor, and continued with them about thirty years. He was succeeded by Rev. Caleb 
Turner, who was ordained in 1761. In 1743, a third precinct was constituted in the 
north-west part of Middleborough, including a part of Bridgewater. A church was 
formed there in 1756, and the next year Rev. Solomon Reed was installed their pastor ; 
he died in 1785, and was succeeded in 1787 by Rev. David Gurney. 

Titicut precinct was constituted in 1743. A kind of an Independent church was 
formed here in 1748, and Rev. Isaac Backus was ordained their pastor in the 
same year. A regular Baptist church was formed here in 1756, and Mr. Backus 
was installed pastor. The second Baptist church in Rliddleborough originated in the 
following manner : Mr. Thomas Nelson discovered such evils in Mr. Palmer as gave 
a turn to his mind about principles. He adopted the .sentiments of the Baptists, and 
joined the first Baptist church in Swanzey, which is the first of that denomination in 
Massachusetts. In 1717, he removed into Assowamset, being the first English family 
who settled in that neck of land. A Baptist church was formed here in 1757, and Mr. 
Hinds was ordained their pastor next year. The third Baptist church was constituted 
in the south-east corner of Rliddleborough, near Carver and Wareham, in 1761, and 
Rev. Ebenezer Jones was ordained pastor the same year. The next pastor was Rev. 
Asa Hunt, from Braintree, who was ordained in 1771 ; his successor was Rev. Sam- 
uel Nelson, the grandson of the first Baptist in Middleborough ; he was ordained in 
1794. 



NORTH BRIDGEWATER. 

This place was a part of Bridgewater until 1821. In 1738, the 
north part of the west parish, and a small part of the north-west 
corner of the east parish, were incorporated into a precinct, and 
called the north parish. It was incorporated a town in 1821. 

The Rev. John Porter was their first pastor ; he was ordained in 1740, and died in 
1802, in the 87th year of his age and the 62d of his ministry. Rev. Asa Meech, his suc- 
cessor, was ordained in 1800, and dismissed by a mutual council in 1811; he was 
afterwards installed in Canterbury, in Connecticut. His successor was Rev. Danie) 
Huntington, who was ordained in 1812. In a history of Bridgewater in 1818, which 
then consisted of four parishes, it is stated that Mr. Huntington's salary was $700 



NORTH BRIDGEWATER. 



615 



which was the highest in town. The following is also stated:—" It is very remarka- 
ble," (says the writer) " that each of the Congregational parishes are now enjoying 
the labors of their third minister. The general longevity of their pastors is also 
worthy of notice. Four of them, Mr. Perkins, Sir. J. Angier, Mr. Shaw, and Mr. 
Porter, who were contemporaries, lived to the great ages, respectively, of 86, 86, 83, 
87, and died in the 62d, 63d, 60th, and 62d year of their ministry. These, with Mr. 
Keith, who was 76, and Mr. Samuel Angier, who was 62 years of age, are the only 
ministers that ever died in town." 




Southern view of North Bridgervater. 

The above is a southern view of the central part of North 
Bridgewater, which is a large, flourishing, and well-built village, 
consisting of upwards of 100 dwelling-houses. There are three 
churches in the village, 2 Congregational, (1 of which is Unita- 
rian,) and 1 New Jerusalem. There is a Methodist church in the 
western part of the town. Population, 2.701. Distance, 25 miles 
from Plymouth, 13 to Taunton, and 20 from Boston. The town- 
ship IS generally level, and well watered by springs and brooks; 
the soil is varied; some parts are strong and fertile, some excellent 
for tillage, and a considerable quantity of meadow land. Iron 
was formerly manufactured here to some extent. The manufac- 
ture of boots and shoes is a very important branch of business in 
this town. Ill 1S37, there were 79,000 pairs of boots and 22,300 
of shoes manufactured, the value of which was ^184,200; males 
employed, 750; females, 375. There were 3 manufactories of 
chairs and cabinet ware ; the value of articles manufactured, 
{$38,500 ; hands employed, 39. There is a cotton mill and some 
other manufacturing establishments in the limits of the town. 

It has been stated that there was a New Jerusalem church in 
this place. Tiie following, fin-nished by a gentleman of this de- 
nomination, is believed to be a correct summary of its leading 
doctrines : 

" New Jerusalem Chitrch. — Emanuel Swedeiibor?, who, imrier Providence, communicated to the 
world the truths of the new dispensation, was ham at Stockholm, Sweden, in the year 1688. He waa 
the son of a bishop, and waa educated with much rare. He niada rapid advancement in all the branchM 

G9 



516 NORTH BRIDGF WATER. 

of education taught at that perioJ. He travelled much, and was on terms of intimacy with the learned 
men of that period. Previous to the year 1743, he published many philosophical works. Many new 
observations and discoveries are traced in these works, which philosophers of a later period have claimed 
as their own. 

'• In 1743. he was called to perform higher duties ; in reference to which he says, ' I have been called 
to a holy office by the Lord himself, who most graciously manife.sted himself in person to me, hia servant, 
in the year 1743; when he opened my sight to the view of the spiritual world, and granted me ihe privi- 
lege of conversing with spirits and angels.' ' From that time I besan to print and publish various arcarui 
that have been seen by me, or revealed to me ; as respecting heaven and hell, the state of man after death, 
the true worship of God, the spiritual sense of the Word ; with many other more important matters ro<i- 
ducive to salvation and true wisdom.' 

" His works were all written in Latin. His theological works comprise, in English, about 27 volumes 
octavo, and are as follows, not regarding the order, as to time, in which they were written ; 

" 1. The Four Leading Doctrines of the New Church, viz. concerning the Lord, 
concerning the Sacred Scriptures, concerning Faith, and concerning Life. The above 
were originally published separately, and are ymall works. 2. The New Jerusalem 
and its Heavenly Doctrines. 3. A Brief Exposition of the Doctrines of the New 
Church. These are also small works. 4. The True Christian Religion, or the Uni- 
versal Theology of the New Church. This comprises about 800 pages octavo. 

" The works ahn-e enumerated treat more particularly of doctrinal subjects. The doctrine concerning 
the Lord may be considered as one of ;he mo.'ji importance. It is now revealed, that the Lord is one, both in 
essence and person : that there is a divine trinity in the person of Jesus Christ, con.sisting of Father, Son, 
and Holy Spirit. These three make one person, as the sonl. body, and their operation, make one man. 
Concerning redemption, it is now shown that the Divine assumed a human nature and dwelt with man, 
whereby a way was opened in the which those who had alienated themselves from Him, might, consist- 
ently with their freedom, be restored. It is fully shown that there was the same endeavor on the part of 
the Divine to save man before as after the advent: but men had become so corrupt, and had removed 
themselves so far from divine influences, that the divine endeavor to save became comparatively inopera- 
tive. Omnipotence alone carmot save; if .•eo. all would at once be saved, and even demons be converted 
into angels. The suflTerings of the assumed humanity were endured, that man might in freedom be recon- 
ciled to his Maker, and not to reconcile the Father to the world. — The doctrines of the New Church are 
very fully and freely contrasted with tho.se which u.^ually prevail. Tliey are explained wiih simplicity, 
and with none of the persuasive means usually adopted to produce converts. The .same course is also 
adopted by the receivers of the New Church doctrines. Those who are satisfied with the doctrines which 
now prevail in the Christian church will have no desire to embrace ihase of the New Church ; and while 
they are thus satisfied these doctrines can do tliem no good. But all, of whatever sect, who are perplexed 
with the dogmas in which they have been educated, may here find relief. The trinitarian, whose mind 
is troubled with the idea of a division of the divine essence into thri;e persons, or something equivalent 
thereto, may here have his doubts dispelled, and be enabled to see a divine trinity in the person of the Savior. 
The conscientious Uniiarian. who cherishes the idea of a unity in the Godhead, and is nevertheless unwill- 
ing to take the attribute of divinity from the Savior, and is thus perplexed with doubts, may here be able 
to exalt the character of the Savior into true divinity, and into a oneness with the Father. The Univer- 
salist, who may not have confirmed himself in that belief, hut is unable to see how a being of pure love 
can punish, may here be led to see that the Lord punishes no one; that the divine influence is equally 
bestowed upon all, but that it is differently received by men. 

" 5. The Wisdom of Angels concerning the Divdne Love and the Divine Wisdom. 
6. The Wisdom of the Angels concerning the Divine Providence. These two make 
about 500 pages octavo. 7. The Nature of the Intercourse between the Soul and the 
Body, which is supposed to take place either by Physical Intiux, or by Spiritual Influx, 
or by Pre-established Harmony. This is a small work. 8. Delights of Wisdom con- 
cerning Conjugial Love, &:c. About 500 pages octavo. 

" In the treatise here numbered 5, it is shown that the Lord appears in the spiritual 
world as a sun ; that the spiritual and the natural world resemble eaeh other in ap- 
pearance ; that the mind and the body of man correspond, and that the former acts 
upon, fills, moves and controls the latter ; that man has a spiritual body within the 
natural body, having similar sensations to the latter, but in a higher degree ; and on 
the dissolution of the latter, man continues a living being in human form, with all his 
powers, faculties and sensations entire. Concerning the Divine Providence, our limits 
will not enable us to speak. Suffice to say, it is clearly shown, that however mys- 
teriously the lot of some may be cast in this life, yet, with each and every individual, 
his best possible future and eternal happiness is every moment provided for, although 
at the time in a way unknown to him, yet in a manner the best which his state will 
admit of. Of marriage, it is shown that man after death continues male and female ; 
that the dissolution of the material body offers no violence to the mind or soul, by 
which so important a feature as that of a distinctness of the .sex is obliterated. In 
the most ancient church, called the golden age, men saw and acknowledged their con- 
jugial relationship to be one with the church in them ; — that the church in fact formed 
and constituted this relationship ; and on leaving the natural world that relationship 
continued and became eternal. The effort on the part of Divine Providence is to 
restore this lost, but happy condition of the church. 

" 9. Arcana Coelestia, or Heavenly Mysteries, contained in the Sacred Scriptures, or 
the Word of the Lord, manifested and laid open ; beginning with the Book of Genesis. 



M 



PEMBROKE. 517 

Twelve volumes, octavo. 10. Apocalypse Revealed ; wherein are disclosed the £.v:ana 
therein foretold, which have hitherto remained concealed. Two volumes, octavo. 11. 
The Apocalypse Explained. Six volumes, octavo. 

"In these works the spiritual sense of the sacred scriptures is imfokled. The Word is written \.'cor:V 
In? to the laws of correspondence of natural with spiritual things, and thus differs from all other f-r.kji. 
A work written by a man necessarily proceeds frntn affections finite and limited ; the truths in whi. ■> hia 
affection or Kive are embodied are finite and limileil, Tl\e writer has in view some end which he ivu^liea 
to accomplish, and the truths which he expresses in words are as limited as the end and cause from 
which they proceed. The words written are but a mirror, in which are seen the affections and thoughts, 
the end and motives of the writer. But the Infinite Mind, or the Supreme Good, in dictating the Word 
through the inspired writers, could have had nothing less in view than the best possible good of the whole 
human race. An object short of this, and means employed of which any thing short of perfection can be 
predicated, must imply something short of infinity in the Divine Being, and render improper the expres- 
sion, ' Word of God,' as applied to the sacred scriptures. It is impossible for man to adapt truths to all 
men, or to all states of mind ; it is equally impossible for the Divine to do less. It is mi account of the 
adaptation of truths to all mankind, that the Word of God is capable of being received in such a variety 
of different ways, and not because truths themselves are at variance with each other. Tlie sphere of the 
divine operation is not limited to a select few, who are thought to be, or who really are, better than others, 
but extends to all. ' If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art 
there.' When the spiritual sense of the Word is opened, the infinite love and mercy of God are seen in 
expressions which seem to imply in him anger and wrath, and the immutability of God is seen in those 
wliich seem to imply in him repentance and change of purpose. 

12. " A Treatise concerning Heaven and Hell, and of the wonderful things therein 
heard and seen. About 400 pages, octavo. 13. A Treati.se concerning the Last Judg- 
ment and the Destruction of Babylon ; showing that all the predictions contained in the 
Apocalypse are at this day fulfilled ; being a testimony of things heard and seen. 14. 
A Continuation concerning the Last Judgment and the Spiritual World. These are 
small works. 

" In the treatise on Heaven and Hell, it is shown that the inhabitants of heaven live 
in societies distinct from each other, and that all are associated according to their seve- 
ral states and different dispositions — that the happiness of heaven consists in a life of 
usefulness, and thence of activity. The unhappiness of the wicked does not consist 
in their being rejected, punished, and cast into hell by the Lord, for this is not the case ; 
they separate themselves from the good, and form associations with evil spirits, because 
they take the greatest pleasure in their society ; but their misery consists in hating 
and despising others, in having all their thoughts and affections centered in themselvefi 
— thus in living contrary to the order of heaven." 



PEMBROKE 



This town was incorporated in 1711. The Rev. Daniel Lewis 
was ordained the first minister, in 1712, and continued in the pas- 
toral office about 39 years. Rev. Thomas Smith succeeded him 
in the ministry at the close of 17.54, and continued in the pastoral 
office 34 years. He died in 1788, aged S3, and was succeeded by 
Mr. Whitman, who continued in the ministry about 9 years. A 
son of Rev. Gideon Hawley, missionary among the Marshpee 
Indians, next succeeded ; he continued in the ministry at this place 
about 16 months, when he died. In 1801, Rev. Morrell Allen was 
ordained the next pastor. 

" This town was originally a part of Duxbury, and with that 
town was called Malakecsit by the Indians. Here was the first 
saw-mill in Plymouth colony, and the only one in the colony for 
more than forty years after its settlement." North river separates 
this town from Hanover, and two of its considerable branches rise 
from several ponds in this town. This stream is quite narrow, 
but deep, and very crooked. Two companies were incorporated in 
this town in 1814 for the manufacture of cotton and woollen goods, 



!318 PLYMOUTH. 

witli capitals of $100,000 each. In 1837, there was 1 cotton 
mill, "' cupola furnace, 2 tack factories, and 2 shingle mills. 
"Number of vessels built, 8; tonnage of the same, 1000; value 
of th" same, .^40,000; hands employed, 8." Population, 1,258. 
Distance, 12 miles from Plymouth, 9 from Scituate Harbor, and 27 
from Boston. 



PLYMOUTH. 

Plymouth, the first permanent settlement by civilized man in 
New England, is situated at the bottom of a harbor on the south- 
western part of Massachusetts bay. Its Indian name was Patuxet. 
It is built on the shore, upon an easy declivity, beneath the brow 
of an extensive pine plain. The declivity is about a fourth of a 
mile in breadth, and upwards of one mile and a half in length. 
The soil of this tract is good, but that of the plain is of but littlr 
value. The harbor is formed partly by a beach, extending three 
miles northerly from the mouth of Eel brook, south of the village. 
This beach, which serves to break the waves rolling in from 
Massachusetts bay, has been much damaged by violence, and in 
former years even the safety of the harbor has been endangered. 
Large appropriations have been made by the town, as well as by 
the state, and recently by the general government, for the repair 
and preservation of the beach, as essential to the preservation of 
the harbor. The township of Plymouth was once much larger 
than it is at present ; and it is now one of the very largest, in point 
of territory, in the state. It extends on the coast about sixteen 
miles from north to south. The land is generally hilly, barren, 
and sandy; but a border of considerable extent on the seaboard 
consists of a rich loamy soil. Numerous small streams cross the 
township in various directions, and there are more than fifty per- 
manent ponds, and more than 3000 acres are covered with water. 
Plymouth village is situated in the north part of the town. It 
is a port of entry, and county town — 30 miles north-west of Barn- 
stable, 25 easterly of Taunton, 35 south-easterly of Boston, and 
439 miles from Washington. The harbor is spacious, but not of 
sufficient depth for the largest vessels. A considerable number of 
vessels belong here, most of which are engaged in the fishing and 
coasting business. There are in the village 2 banks — the " Old 
Colony Bank" and "Plymouth Bank," each with a capital of 
$ilOO,000; and " The Marine Insurance Company," with a capital 
of $100,000. In 1837 there were 3 cotton mills ; number of 
spindles, 3,764; yards of cotton cloth manufactured, 706,810; 
value, $61,081 ; males employed, 27 ; females, 67. There were 3 
nail factories ; 1,500 tons of nails were manufactured ; value, 
$200,000 ; hands employed, 50. There were 45 vessels employed 
in the cod and mackerel fishery ; 29,058 quintals of codfish and 
1,436 barrels of mackerel were taken; value, $95,574; hands era- 
ployed, 362. There were 4 vessels employed in the whale fishery; 



PLYMOUTH. 



510 



tonnage, 1,300; hands employed, 100; 47,250 gallons of sperm oil 
and 47,250 of whale oil were obtained ; valne, $^59,062. There 
were 2 cordage manufactories; value of cordage manufactured, 
$177,625 ; hands employed, 135. Ship-building is carried on to some 
extent. Among the public buildings worthy of notice, there is the 
court-house, the church of the first society, a gothic structure, and 
the monumental edifice, or Pilgrim Hall. There are in the whole 
eight places of worship in the town, 5 Congregational, 2 Baptist, 
and 1 Universalist. Population, 5,034. 

The village of Plymouth is compactly built, and for the space 
of half a mile north and south from the town square very few 
building lots are unoccupied. " Not a dwelling-house of ancient 
date or antique form now remains in town. Those recently erected 
are in the style of modern architecture, and the largest proportion 
of the buildings in the place are painted of a light color, and 
exhibit an air of neatness and elegance." This is a place of resort 
for strangers during the summer season, and no true-born son of 
New England can visit this place, consecrated by the " Pilgrim 
Fathers," without emotion. 




FUgrim Hall, F'ljmuuth. 

The above is a representation of the Pilgrim Hall. This 
edifice is situated at the north-western extremity of the vil- 
lage, and its situation presents a full view of the outer harbor. 
The corner-stone of this building was, with appropriate solemnities, 
laid on the first of September, 1824. The building was not entirely 
completed till 1834. The following is a list of the articles de- 
posited in an excavation made in the corner-stone for the purpose. 

" Deposits. — Sermon delivered at Plymouth by Robert Cushman, December 12th, 

1(521. First newspaper printed in the Old Colony, by Nathaniel Coverly, at Plymouth, 

in 1786.— Coins of the United States, and of Massachusetts.— Odes composed for the 
Anniversary. — Constitution of the Pilgrim Society, and the names of its members. — 
Daniel Webster's Century Oration for 1820.— Rlassachusetts Register. — Old Colony 
Memorial, began in May, 1822, by Allen Danforth.— Columbian Centinel, by Benjamin 
Russell, containmg an account of the entry of General Lafayette into the city of 
Boston.— Pkie—' In grateful memory of our ancestors who exUed themselves from 



520 PLYMOUTH. 

their native country, for the sake of religion, and here successfully laid the foundation 
of Freedom and Empire, December xxii. A. D. MDCXX. their descendants, the Pilgrim 
Society, have raised this edifice, August xxxi. A. D. MDCCCXXIV. A. Parris, 
Akchitect. J. & A. S. Taylor, Builders. H. Morse, Sc' " 

In 1834, Col. Sargent, of Boston, presented to the Pilgrim Society 
his valuable painting, representing the landing of the Fathers from 
the May Flower, in 1620. This painting, which decorates the walls 
of the Pilgrim Hall, is valued at $3,000. It is about 13 by 16 
feet, and represents all the prominent persons in the colony who 
first landed, being a most valuable and interesting acquisition. 
Among the antiquities in the cabinet of the Pilgrim Society, there 
is an antique chair, said to have belonged to Governor Carver — 
the identical sword-blade used by Captain Miles Standish — the 
identical cap worn by King Philip — and a variety of implements 
wrought of stone by the natives, such as axes, tomahawks, arrow- 
heads, 6cc. 

The following account of the first celebration of the landing of 
the Fathers is taken from Dr. Thacher's History of Plymouth, 
second edition, a most valuable and interesting work, published by 
Messrs. Marsh, Capen and Lyon, Boston, 1835. 

" Friday, December 22, (1769.) — The Old Colony Club, agreeably to a vote passed the 
18th instant, met, in commemoration of the landing of their worthy ancestors in this 
place. On the morning of the said day, after discharging a cannon, was hoisted upon 
the hall an elegant silk flag, with the following inscription, ' Old Colony, 1620.' At 
11 o'clock, A. M., the members of the club appeared at the hall, and from thence pro- 
ceeded to the house of Mr. Rowland, innholder, which is erected upon the spot where 
the first licensed house in the Old Colony formerly stood. At half after two a decent 
repast was served, which consisted of the following dishes, viz. 

" 1, a large baked Indian whortleberry pudding ; 2, a dish of sauquetach, (succatach, 
com and beans boiled together) ; 3, a dish of clams ; 4, a dish of oysters and a dish 
of codfish ; 5, a haunch of venison, roasted by the first jack brought to the colony ; 
6, a dish of sea-fowl ; 7, a dish of frost-fish and eels ; 8, an apple pie ; 9, a course 
of cranberry tarts, and cheese made in the Old Colony. 

" These articles were dressed in the plainest manner, all appearance of luxury and 
extravagance being avoided, in imitation of our ancestors, whose memory we shall 
ever respect. At 4 o'clock, P. M., the members of our club, headed by the steward, 
carrying a folio volume of the laws of the Old Colony, hand in hand marched in pro- 
cession to the hall. Upon the appearance of the procession in front of the hall, a 
number of descendants from the first settlers in the Old Colony drew up in a 
regular file, and discharged a volley of small-arms, succeeded by three cheers, which 
were returned by the club, and the gentlemen generously treated. After this, appear- 
ed at the private grammar-school, opposite the hall, a number of young gentlemen, 
pupils of Mr. Wadsworth, who, to express their joy upon this occasion, and their 
respect for the memory of their ancestors, in the most agreeable manner joined in 
singing a song very applicable to the day. At sunsetting a cannon was discharged, 
and the flag struck. In the evening the hall was illuminated, and the following gen- 
tlemen, being previously invited, jomed the club, viz. 

Col. George Watson, Capt. Gideon White, Mr. Edward Clarke, 

Col. James Warren, Capt. Elkanah Watson, Mr. Alexander Scammell, 

James Hovey, Esq. Capt. Thomas Davis, I\Ir. Peleg Wadsworth, 

Thomas Mayhew, Esq. Dr. Nathaniel Lothrop, Dlr. Thomas Southworth How. 
WiUiam Watson, Esq. Mr. John Kussell, land. 

" The president being seated in a large and venerable chair, which was formerly 
possessed by William Bradford, the second worthy governor of the Old Colony, and 
presented to the club by our friend Dr. Lazarus Le Baron of this town, delivered 
several appropriate toasts. After spending an evening in an agreeable manner, in 
recapitulating and conversing upon the many and various advantages of our fore- 
fiithers in the first settlement of this country, and the growth and increase of the 



PLYMOUTH. 621 

same, at 11 o'clock in the evening a cannon was again fired, three cheers given, and 
the club and company withdrew." 

In 1820, a society was instituted at Plymouth, called the Pilgrim 
Society, and was incorporated by the legislature of the state. 
The design of this association is to commemorate the " great his- 
torical event" of the landing of the Pilgrim Fathers, " and to per- 
petuate the character and virtues of our ancestors to posterity." 
The centennial celebration of the landing of the Pilgrims this year 
was one of uncommon interest, and the concourse of people was 
far greater than on any former celebration. The Hon. Daniel 
Webster was selected as the orator on the occasion. " A procession 
was formed at 11 o'clock, soon after the business of the Pilgrim 
Society was transacted, and, escorted by the Standish Gvards, a 
neat independent company, lately organized, and commanded by 
Capt. Coomer Weston, moved through the main street of the town 
to the meeting-house, and, after the services of the sanctuary, were 
attended by the same corps to the new court-house, where they sat 
down to an elegant though simple repast, provided in a style very 
proper for the occasion, where the company was served with the 
treasures both of the land and sea. Among other affecting memo- 
rials, calling to mind the distresses of the Pilgrims, were five 
kernels of parched corn placed on each plate, alluding to the time, 
in 1623, when that was the proportion allowed to each individual, 
on account of the scarcity. John Watson, Esq., respectable by his 
years, and dignified by his gentlemanly manners, and the only 
surviving member of the Old Colony club, presided during the 
hours of dinner." 

An account of the emigration, the landing, the sufferings, &c., 
of the first settlers of Plymouth, is given in the outline history 
prefixed to this work. The place in which the settlers located 
themselves for a town is the whole extent of Leyden street, and its 
environs. This street was laid out by them, and extends from the 
town square in a gradual descent to the shore, and terminates a 
little south of the Forefathers' rock. The first winter, during the 
great mortality among the settlers, the dead were buried on the 
bank, at a little distance from the rock where the Fathers landed ; 
and lest the Indians should take advantage of the weak and 
wretched state of the English, their graves were levelled and sown 
for the purpose of concealing the extent of their loss. This place, 
which is a small square on the sea-bank, at the foot of Middle street, 
is called Cole^s Hill. Governor Carver's remains, it is supposed, 
were interred here, and it is to be regretted that no stone has been 
erected to designate the spot. It is a pleasant spot, affording a fine 
prospect of the ocean. " About the year 1735, an enormous freshet 
rushed down Middle street, by which many of the graves of the 
Fathers were laid bare, and their bones washed into the sea." A 
breastwork and platform were erected on this bank in 1742. In 
tne revolutionary war, and in the war with Great Britain in 1814, 
«ome defences were erected on this spot. 



622 



P L YMO DTH. 



BilHngton Sea is a lake of about six miles in circumference, about two miles south- 
west of the village, and from it issues the town brook. It was discovered by Francis 
Billington, about the first of January, 1621, while mounted on a tree standing on a hill. 
It was in the midst of a thick forest, and when seen at a distance Billington supposed it 
to be another sea. In this pond there are two small islands ; the largest, containing 
about two acres, has been planted with apple trees. The pond is stocked with pickerel 
and perch, and the eagle is frequently seen cowering over it, having its nest in the 
vicinity. The fallow deer occasionally visits this pond for drink, and to browse on 
its margin. For many years t!'is phce was a favorite resort for social parties. 

In the south part of the town of Plymouth, bordering on Sandwich and Wareham, 
there is a tract of country, nearly twenty miles square, chietly covered with wood 
This place has always been well stocked with deer, but they are annually thinned off 
by hunters. In January, 1831, a heavy snow, laying about three feet deep, so im- 
peded their motions as to prove fatal to a large proportion of the stock. The hunters 
jirovided themselves with snow-shoes, pursued the deer, and killed and captured two 
hundred, of which about forty were taken alive. There are on the road to Sandwich, 
in the woods, two rocks, called Sacrifice Rocks, which are covered with sticks and stones, 
which have been accumulating for centuries. It was the constant practice for the 
Indians, when passing by, to throw on the rock a stick or stone. The Rev. Mr. Hawley, 
who spent many years among the natives at Marshpee, endeavored to learn from them 
this singular rile, but could only conjecture that it was an acknowledgment of an in- 
visible Being, the unknown God whom they woi-shipped, this pile being their altar. 



The annexed is a reduced copy 
of the Old Colony seal, taken from 
the book of laws, published in 
1685. Underneath are fac similes 
of the hand-writing of distinguish- 
ed persons in the colony. 





[10:771 ^i^^ori 







Immediately in the rear of Plymouth village is Burying Hill, for- 
merly Fort Hill. It embraces about eight acres, and rises to the 
height of 165 feet above the level of the sea. On the summit 
of the south-western side, the Pilgrims at first erected some slight 
defences; but in 1675, on the approach of Philip's war, they erect- 



PLYMPTON. 523 

ed a fort 150 feet square, strongly palisaded, lOj^ feet high, and 
the whole circuit of this fortification is distinctly visible. The 
view presented from this eminence is rarely excelled by any in 
the country. Beyond the points of land forming the harbor, the 
great bay of Massachusetts opens to the view, bounded at the 
southern extremity by the peninsula of Cape Cod. On the north 
appears the village of Duxbury, and the handsome conical hill, 
once the property and residence of Capt. Standish, the military 
commander of the Plymouth colony. Burying Hill is so named 
from its being used as the burying-place of the town ; and it is a 
matter of some surprise that sixty years should have elapsed before 
a grave-stone was erected to the memory of the dead at Plymouth. 
It is probably owing to their poverty and want of artists. A con- 
siderable number of the oldest are of English slate-stone. The 
oldest monument in the yard is for Edward Gray, a respectable 
merchant, whose name is often found in the old records. The 
inscription is, '• Here lies the body of Edward Gray, Gent., aged 
about fifty-two years, and departed this life the last of June, 
1681." The following are also copied from monuments standing 
on Burying Hill. 

Here lyes y" body of y« Honorable William Bradford, who expired February y« 20, 
1703-4, aged 79 years. 

He lived long, but was still doing good. 
And in his country's service lost much blood. 
After a hfe well spent he's now at rest j 
His very name and memory is blest. 



Here lyeth buried y= body of that precious servant of God, Mr. Thomas Cushman, 
who, after he had served his generation according to the will of God, and particularly 
the church of Plymouth, for many years in the office of ruling elder, fell asleep in 
Jesus, December y 10th, 1691. and in the 84th year of his age. 



PLYMPTON 



This town is situated in the center of Plymouth county, and 
was originally the north-western parish of Plymouth. It was in- 
corporated as a town in 1707. The Rev. Isaac Cushman. the first 
minister, was ordained in 1698. His successor. Rev. Jonathan 
Parker, was ordained in 1731, and died in 1776. Rev. Ezra 
Sampson was the next minister ; he resigned in 1796. The next 
in order was Rev. Eben. Withington, Rev. John Briggs, and Rev. 
Elijah Dexter, who was ordained in 1809. 

The original growth of forest trees here was rather superior in size 
and variety to other kinds within the ancient limits of Plymouth 
township; upland and swamp oak, maple, Avalnut, white pine, 
white cedar, pitch pine, were common. The Winnatuckset, a 
branch of Taunton river, passes through the western width of this 
town, and the natural meadows on this stream had early attrac- 
tions, and first led to the settlement of these then "westerly pre- 
cincts of Plymouth." Persons by the names of Loring, Gushing, 

70 



§24 ROCHESTER. 

Lobdell, Lazell, and Bradford were among the first settlers of tlie 
place. There is a Congregational and an Universalist church. 
Population, 835. Distance, 8 miles W. of Plymouth, 10 E. of 
Bridgewater, and 32 south-easterly of Boston. In 1837, there 
was one cotton mill, spindles, 1,000; cloth manufactured, 180,000 
yards; value, .^18,000: five males and 2.5 females employed; one 
woollen mill, 2 sets of machinery; 36,154 yards of woollen cloth 
manufactured; value, $40,171; two nail factories ; 83 tons of nails 
manufactured; vahxe, ^16,180 ; one manufactory of shovels, spades, 
forks and hoes: value of articles manufactured, .*$7,200. 



ROCHESTER. 



This town was incorporated in 1686. As early as 1638, it ap- 
pears that the colony court of Plymouth " granted lands at Seipi- 
ca7i to a committee of the church of Scituate, for the seating of a 
township and a congregation," «fcc. The territory, however, re- 
mained unoccupied till 1651, when it was granted for the benefit 
of the town of Plymouth. It was probably purchased of the 
natives the same year. 

After this purchase there were several others made at various times. The town is 
said to have taken its name from the ancient city of Rochester, in Kent, England, a 
shire from whence many of the first planters of Scituate (and of course Rochester) 
emigrated. " That ancient city had the jurisdiction of the oyster fishery, and it ap- 
pears in history that these oysters were celebrated by the Romans for their excellence." 
The first settlers appear to have come into the place about the year 1680 ; they were 
principally from Sandwich, Marshfield, and Scituate. The following appear to have 
been the first principal settlers. 

Mr. Samuel Arnold, Samuel Hammond, Jacob Biimpus, Abraham Holmes, 

.Tohn Hammond, John Wing, Joseph Biirges, Job Winslow. 

Moses Barlow, Aaron Barlow, John Haskell, 
Samuel White, Joseph Dotey, Sprague, 

Rochester is a large toAvnship, containing about sixty square 
miles, containing various kinds of soil ; about the center it is light 
and sandy; some parts are rocky and unfit for cultivation; in some 
places the soil is hixuriant, producing good crops of grass. The 
principal manufacture of the town is salt. Ship-building has also 
formed an important branch of business in the place. There is 
about 60 sail of merchant and coasting vessels owned here. There 
are 8 churches, 4 Congregational, (1 of which is Unitarian,) 2 
Baptist, 1 Methodist, 1 for Friends. Mattapoiset^* on an inlet from 
Buzzard's bay, is the principal village. 

The following shows the appearance of the village as it is entered 
from the east. The village consists of about 100 dwelling-houses, 

* The Indian word Mattapoiset is said to signify the place of rest. The Indians liv- 
ed 5 or 6 miles north of the village, and used frequently to come down to the shore for 
the purpose of obtaining clams and fish ; one or two miles north of the village, they 
used to stop at a spring and rest. From this circumstance, is it said, the river and 
place derived their names. 

C 



B0CHE8TSB. 626 




ErQit viav of Mattapui.<,:t Village, Rochester. 

3 churches, 1 Congregational. 1 Universalist, and 1 Baptist. The 
Congregational church is seen on the extreme right; the Universal- 
ist, with a tower, is seen farther south. There are quite a number 
of mechanic shops, connected principally with the ship-building 
business, which, with the whale fishery, is the principal business of 
the inhabitants. Large whaling ships can come up to the wharves. 
This village is 6 miles from New Bedford, 25 from Plymouth, and 
6 miles south from Rochester Center, which is a small village, 
having a Congregational church. Sippican village is about 6 miles 
north-eastward of Mattapoiset, and perhaps about two thirds its 
size, containing 2 churches, 1 Congregational and 1 Universalist. 
In this village the manufacture of salt is the leading business of 
the inhabitants. In the Statistical Tables of the state, it is stated, 
"Number of vessels built, 35; tonnage of the same, 9,338 ; value 
of the same, $379,000; hands employed, 215." Population, 3,570. 

Mr. Hovey and Mr. Le Baron continued in the ministry in Mat- 
tapoiset for 100 years. Rev. Thomas Robbins, D. D., the succes- 
sor of Mr. Le Baron, possesses, it is believed, the most valuable 
private library in the state. It consists of about 3,000 volumes, 
of which more than 300 are folios. The principal subjects on 
which these volumes treat are theology and history, and man)'^ of 
them are quite ancient. In this collection there are 4,000 pamph 
lets, some of which are very rare. Dr. R. has also an extensivt 
collection of coins, manuscripts, &c. The library is carefully 
arranged in neat and elegant book-cases. 

The Rev. Samuel Arnold was the first minister of this town. 
The first meeting-house was built in the vicinity of Sippican or 
Rochester harbor, and at this place, it is probable, the first settlers 
located themselves. Mr. Arnold was succeeded by Rev. Timothy 
Ruggles, who was settled here in 1710. While he was minister, 
the inhabitants of the south-western part of the town, living re- 
mote from the place of public worship, proposed to be set off into 
a distinct parish. This was accordingly done about the year 1733, 
and Rev. Ivory Hovey was ordained their minister. This parish 



SC IT U A T B 



contains that part of the town which still retains the Indian name 
Mattapoiset. Mr. Hovey was succeeded, in 1772, by Rev. Lemuel 
Le Baron.* A third Congregational society was formed from 
several border-towns, about 1748, of which Rev. Thomas West 
was for many years the pastor. He died in the ministry, in 1790, 
at a very advanced age. The meeting-house for this society stood 
at the N. W. angle of the town, near the great ponds. The Bap- 
tist church in Rochester, according to Mr. Backus, was established 
about 1793. 

The following sketch or draught is copied from an original draw- 
ing made by King Philip, in 1668, preserved in the records of 
Plymouth colony. The land described seems to fall within Roch- 
ester, on the sea-shore. 

" This may inform the honorable court, that I, Phihp, am willing to sell the land 
within this draught, but the Indians that are upon it may live upon it still; but the 
land that is mine may be sold, and Watashpoo is of the same mind. I have put down 
all the principal names of the land we are now willing should be sold. 

" From Pacanaukett, the 24th Philip : P : his mark." 

of the month, 1668.'' 

Wewwensett. 

Wanascotucket. ^ ^ This i3 a path. 

/x "^ ■ ■ ■ ■■ • ■ r " j Panhanet. 



Sepaconett. 



Aasowompamokc . 




Patantanett. 
Assookamuck. 



Machapaugoneck. 



*A This is a path. 
'•' «A Anequeassett. 
Kitteaskeesett. 



" Know all men by these presents, that Philip has given power unto Watashpoo, 
and Sampson and their brethren, to hold and to make sale of to whom they will, by my 
consent, &c. &c. Witness my hand that I give it to them. 

The mark P of Philip, 1668." 

" John Sassamon is a witness." 



SCITUATE. 



This town appears to have been settled as early as 1633 or 1634. 
It is supposed the town derived its name from the Indian word 
Seteaat or Sattiit, a word which signifies Cold Brook, and applied 



* In 1696, a French privateer was -svTecked in Buzzard's bay, the crew were carried 
prisoners to Boston ; the surgeon. Dr. Francis Le Baron, came to Plymouth, and hav- 
ing performed a surgical operation, the town being destitute of a physician, they peti- 
tioned Lieutenant Governor Stoughton for his liberation, that he might settle in their 
town. This was granted, and he married Mary Wilder, and practised physic till he 
died, at the age of 36 years. Dr. Le Baron did not relinquish the Catholic religion, 
and was strongly attached to its ceremonies. He never retired to rest without placing 
the cross on his breast. He left descendants, and all those of his name in this country 
are descended from him. — Thacher's History of Plymouth. 



S C I T U A T E . fiSf 

to a Stream in this place. " Scitiiate, indebted to the substantial 
character of some of its founders, many of whom, it is evident, 
came chiefly from Kent, in England, soon became a respectable 
town, early taking the lead in rates and levies of men, which su- 
periority it maintained to the latest annals of the colony. Are you 
a Kentish man, or a man of Kent? has its historical value, as it 
respects origin. "=**" The following is a list of the first freemen in 
Scituate, from 1633 to 1649. 

Mr. William Gilson, Henry Eowley, Richard Sillis, Walter Woodworth, 

Anthony Annable, Geo. Kendrick, Edward Fitzrandle, Mr. Timo. Hatherly, 

Humphrey Turner, Edward Foster, Robert Linnet, Wm. Caseley, 

William Hatch, George Lewis, John Williams, Edward Eddenden, 

Henry Cobb, Bernard Lombard, Thomas Dimmack, Thomas Clapp, 

Samuel House, Mr. John Lothrop, JohnTwisden, Edward Jenkins, 

Mr. James Cudworth, Henry Bourne, Thomas Chambers, Isaac Stedman, 

Isaac Robinson, Mr. Thos. Besbedge, John Hewes, John Allen. 

Samuel Fuller, Samuel Hickley, Mr. Chas. Chauncey, 

John Cooper, John Lewis, William Parker, 

Mr. Timothy Hatherly was the principal founder and father of the town of Scituate. 
In 1656, Mr. Hatherly, Robert Studson, and Joseph Tilden, built a saw-mill on the 
third Herring Brook, which is believed to be the first saw-mill in the colony. This is 
the brook that separates Scituate from Hanover. It was destroyed by the Indians in 
Philip's war. It is stated that 19 houses were burnt by the savages in their attack on 
this town in 1676, 

This town suffered severely during Philip's war. Capt. Michael 
Pierce, who, with 51 Englishmen, were killed by the Indians near 
Pawtucket, was of this town. The following account of the 
Indian attack on this town is copied from the account given in 
" Deane's History of Scituate," published in 1831. 

" They came into Scituate by the ' Indian path,' so called, which led from Scituate to the Matakeeset 
aettlements at Indian head ponds, by ' the Cornet's mill,' on the third Herrini? brook, near the residence of 
the late Major Winslow. This sawmill tliey burnt ; and tradition tells that they wounded and bunit a 
man in it; but this is doubtful. They then proceeded to Capt. Joseph Sylve.ster's, and burnt his house. It 
Btood north of the Episcopal Church hill, (now known as such) and nearly on the same spot where s(anil8 
the mansion of Mr. Samuel Waterman. There was a garrison of twelve men at Joseph B.irstow's, three 
fourths of a mile south of Capt. Sylve.ster's, which ihey probably avoided, and proceeded dowji towards the 
town, burning as they went. But, unfortunately, we are able only to menlion a few of the hoases .so de- 
stroyed, which we find incidentally mentioned in our town records. The next house which they burnt (of 
which we have certain record) was William Blackmore's. It stood where stands the house of llie late Capt. 
Elijah Curtis, forty rods west of the head of the lane that leads to Union bridge, and on the north side of 
the street. William Blackrnore w.is killed thai day, but whether in attempting to defend his house or not, 
and what was the fate of his family, we have not learned ; probably, however, they had escaped to the 
' block-house' on the bank of the river, but fifty rods distant. The blockhou.se was attacked, but not car- 
ried ; John James, however, whose house was near the block-house, received a mortal wound, lingered 
about six weeks, and died. The Indians then hastened forward to attack the principal garrison at Charles 
i»'tockbridge's. Their path may be traced directly onward towards this garrison. The house of Nicholas 
<lhe Sweede) wa.s the next burnt, which stood on a small hill thirty rods north-east of Parker lane. Wo 
observe that the town voted the rexl year to allow him three pounds towards rebuilding his house. In 
their further progress they doubtless burnt other houses, as Wm. Parker's, Robert Stetson, Jr. 's, Stand- 
lake's, SuilifTe'a, Holmes'; John Buck's and others were nigh their path, but unfortunately the committee's 
report to Gov. Winslow is not extait, at least in full. They passed ovar Walnut Tree hill, on the north- 
ward of the late Judge William Cusiing's, and entered Ewell's house, which stood at the 'turn of the road,' 
which spot may be known in modarn times by saying it was nearly midway between Judge Cushing'a 
mansion and farm-house. Ewell's wife was alone, save an infant grandchild, John Northey, sleeping in 
the. cradle ; the house being situated beneath a high hill, she had no notice of the approach of the savages 
until they were rushing down the hill towards the hou.se. In the moment of alarm she lied towards iha 
sarrison, which was not more than si.xly rcxls distant, and ehher through a momentary forgetfulness, or 
despair, or with the hope of alarmins the garrison in season, she forgot the child. She reached the garri- 
son in safety. The savages entered her house, and stopping only to take the bread from the oven which 
she was in the act of putting in, when she was first alarmed, then rushed forward to assault the garrison. 
After they had become closely engaged, Ewell's wife returned by a circuitous path, to learn the fate of the 
babe, and, to her happy surprise, found it quietly sleeping in the cradle as she had left it, and carried it 
•afely to the garrison. A few hours afterward the house was burnt. There was a considerable villaga 

♦ Torrey's History of Scituate, Coll. Mass. Hist. Soc. 



528 



S C I T U A T E. 



around this place, and the houses of Northey, Palmer, Russell. Tliomas King, Jr. and some others wer« 
doubtle.ss burnt, though we are not able to quote record for it. That Ewell's house was biinil we learn from 
his will, in which it was incidentally mentioned ; (.^ee Family Sl<etches.) The garrison-house of Stock- 
bridze wa-s paligadiwd on three sides. Ihe fourth b'ing defended by the mill?ioiid. Beside this there waa 
a small outwork near the mill, on a little isla id bn.veen the millstreim and the wa«te-way, where a 
blacksmith's shop has for several years stood. It was tliouirht to be a point of importance to the .seltlemeiU 
to defend these luills Here the Indians fought several hmirs, made many etforts to lire the bnildiaes, and 
sustained heavy losses, from the well-directed sliol from the garrison. Tliey chielly occupied the ground 
at the south end of the mill-dam. They we.'e not repulsed until night close, when nearly the whole force 
of the town that was left at home was collected for the purpose. Lieut. Buck had mustered all the men 
below, and the veteran Cornet Stetson had descended the river, with what people could be raised in the 
aouth part of the town. Unfortunately, Capt. John Williams, with thirty Scituate men, was at»ent, ' rang- 
ing the woods' about Nam:iskelt, (Middleborough.") 




Southern view of the Ancient House, Scituate. 

The above is a southern view of Capt. S. P. Barker's residence, 
situated on a gentle eminence on the north side of Scituate harbor, 
about half a mile from the village at this place, which consists of 
about 30 dwelling-hou.ses. Capt. Barker's house is one of the 
oldest, if not the very oldest, now standing in New England. The 
tradition is that it was built by John AYilliams, as early as 1634. 
" The massive beams, the wooden walls, interlined with brick, 
and the port-holes, witness that it was a garrison-house." The 
building has been made somewhat longer than it was originally, 
by a small addition at the western end ; it is finely situated, hav- 
ing a commanding prospect of the ocean to the north. Cape Ann 
and Boston Light can be seen from this place. 

Scituate, though much of its soil is poor, contains extensive salt 
marshes and valuable pasturage. The first planters of this ancient 
town complained to the colony court that " their lands were stony 
and hard to be subdued." This was a very just description of the 
north-eastern part of the town, which adjoins Cohasset. Its har- 
bor is small and difficult of access, but the town has about 30 sail 
of fishing and coasting vessels. The mackerel fishery has been 
pursued with great success by the inhabitants of this town. In 
1837, there were 22 vessels employed in the cod and mackerel fish- 
ery; hands employed, 250; 6, .500 barrels of mackerel were taken. 
North river forms the southern boundary of the town, and when 
near the sea turns and runs parallel with the shore, leaving a 
beach nearly three miles in length between itself and the ocean. 
This beach, which is formed of round smooth pebbles, from 20 to 



W A R E H A M . 529 

40 feet high, is considered a curiosity. This town has some iron 
works ; ship-building to a considerable extent has been carried on. 
There are 7 churches, 2 Unitarian, 1 Orthodox, 2 Methodist, 1 
Baptist, and 1 Universalist. Population, 3,754. Scituate Harbor 
is 20 miles N. W. of Plymouth, and 28 from Boston. 

Rev. John Lothrop the first pastor in the first, north or lower society, arrived at 
Scituate in lfi34. He removed with the greater part of his church in 1639, and settled 
Barnstable. His successor was Rev. Charles Chauncy, who afterwards was elected 
president of Harvard college. The next in order was Nicholas Baker, who died in 

1678 ; after him, Jlr. Gushing ; the next, Nath. Pitcher, who was succeeded by 

Rev. Shearjashub Bourne, who was ordained in 172 1 ; Ebenezer Grosvenor, his suc- 
cessor, was ordained in 1763. Rev. Ebenezer Dawes, the successor of Mr. Grosvenor, 
was ordained in 1791. The second, or south, or upper society was in existence as early 
as 1658. The Rev. William Wetherell, who died in 1684, was the first pastor ; he was 
succeeded by Thomas IMighill, who died 1689. Deodat Lawson was the next minister ; 
he was succeeded by Nathaniel Eelles, who was ordained in 1704, and died in 1750 ; 
his successor was Jonathan Dorby, who was ordained in 1751, and died 1754. David 
Barnes, D. D., was ordained in 1754, and died in 1811. Rev. Addington Davenport, 
who graduated at Harvard college in 1719, was the first rector of St. Andrew's church 
in Scituate. This church was taken down, and a large edifice of the same name was 
erected in Hanover. 



W A R E H A M . 



The Indian name of this place appears to have been Agawaam. 
It was sold, in 1655, by Ackanootus, with two other natives of 
Aquetnet, in Sandwich, to the town of Plymouth. After this 
time it was leased by that town till 1682, when it was sold in six 
shares, for £200, to .Foseph Warren, William Clark, Joseph Bart- 
lett, and Josiah Morton, of Plymouth, Isaac Little of Marshfield, 
and Seth Pope of Dartmouth. Settlements commenced soon after 
this time. The earliest permanent settlers were from Hingham, 
of whom Israel Fearing Avas the leader. Several other settlers 
came in, chiefly from Sandwich and Plymouth, while those of 
Rochester, already on the confines, were annexed, when it became 
a town, in 1739. The first minister. Rev. Rowland Thatcher, was 
ordained in 1740, and died in 1773, and was succeeded the next 
year by Rev. Josiah Cotton. Mr. Cotton was succeeded by Rev. 
Noble Everett, who was ordained in 1784. 

The town of Wareham lies at the head of Buzzard's Bay, and 
the soil, like the rest of the towns in this part of Massachusetts, is 
light and sandy. There are a number of small streams in the 
town, on which are a number of manufacturing establishments. 
There is a bank here, the "Wareham Bank," with a capital of 
$100,000. Population, 2,166. Distance, 18 miles from Plymouth, 
18 from New Bedford, 12 from Sandwich, and 50 from Boston. 

The following is a northern view of the southern part of Ware- 
ham village. Vessels from 150 to 200 tons can come up as far as 
this place. In 1837, there were in this town 6 nail factories ; 7,039 
tons were manufactured ; value, $985,460; hands employed, 345. 
Six air and cupola furnaces ; 829 tons of castings were made, val- 



530 WEST BBIDOBWATiSB. 




Northern vien of the southern part of Wareham Village. 



ued at $55,880; hands employed, 56-, 2 rolling mills ; iron manu- 
factured, 1,238 tons; value, $137,000; hands employed, 50. 
There were 2 cotton and 1 paper-mill. 

There is a rocky neck, of some elevation, at the mouth of the 
Narrows, which conceals the view of the bay from the village. "It 
was this neck which concealed the approach of a detachment of 
barges from the Superb and Nimrod, British vessels of Avar on this 
station, June 13, 1814, rendering the expedition as unperceived as 
it was unexpected. The destruction of burning was, one ship, 
one brig, (on the stocks,) and several schooners and sloops. The 
ship, being afterwards extinguished, suffered a partial loss, as did 
the brig and a cotton factory, into which a Congreve rocket was 
thrown, and also extinguished. The estimated loss was $40,000. 
The detachment consisted of 6 barges and 200 men, which arrived 
in the morning, and departed in a few hours." 

Manomet is the name of a creek, or river, which runs through the town of Sand- 
wich, into the upper part of Buzzard's Bay, formerly called Manomet Bay. Between 
this and Scusset Creek is the place which has been thought of, for more than a centu- 
ry, as proper to be cut through by a canal, and thus form a communication between 
Barnstable and Buzzard's Bay. It is only six miles across. Manomet rivulet wa» 
visited as early as 1622, by Gov. Bradford, to procure corn. The stream was called, by 
the natives, Pim^sepoese, a word signifying, in their language, " provision rivulet." In 
1627, the Plymouth colonists, for the convenience of trade, built a small pinnace at 
Manomet, to which place they transported their goods. Having taken them up a creek 
within four or five miles, they carried them over land to the vessel, and thus avoided 
the dangerous navigation around Cape Cod. For the safety of their vessel and goods, 
they built a house, and kept some servants there, who planted corn, raised hogs, &c. 
In the time of the last war with Great Britain, this mode of transportation was revived 
again, and the inhabitants of Cape Cod found it convenient to resort to this place, to 
avoid the risk of capture by the enemy's cruisers along the coast. 



WEST BRIDGE WATER. 

The first settlement of the ancient Bridgewater commenced in 
this town in 1651. It was incorporated by its present name in 
1822. At the commencement of the settlement, each settler had a 



WEST BRIDGE WATER. 531 

liouse-lol of six acres on the town river, then called Niftikeiesf, or 
Nunketetest ; this was also the name, at that time, of Nippenicket 
Pond, in the eastern part of the town, adjoining Raynham. The 
new settlement itself was sometimes called hy this name, while 
the plantation received the more general name of Sanghtucket. 
The honse-lots were contignous, and the settlement compact. 

The following are the names of some of the first permanent settlers : — Thomas 
Hayward, John Hayward, Nathaniel Willis, John Willis, William Basset, John Wash- 
burn, John Washburn, Jr., Thomas Gannett, William Brett, John Gary, Samuel Tomp- 
kins, Arthur Harris, John Fobes, Experience Mitchell, Solomon Leonardson, Mr. Keith 
and Samuel Edson. The orthography, as it respects the names of the early settlers, 
has, in many instances, considerably changed. John Hayward and his descendants, 
who originally omitted the y in their name, have finally changed it to Howard. Gary 
was sometimes written Garew, Lathrop, Laythorpe, &zc. The Rev. James Keith was 
the first minister ordained in this town. This was in lfi64, twelve years after the first 
settlement was made. It appears that they found it ditficult to support a minister be- 
fore this time. Mr. Keith was from Scotland, and was educated at Aberdeen. He came 
to Boston about 1662, and was introduced to the church at Bridgewater by Dr. Increase 
Mather, whom he always considered his best friend and patron. The descendants of 
Mr. Keith are numerous. He died in 1719, aged seventy-six. He was succeeded by 
Rev. Daniel Perkins, who was ordained in 1721, and died in 1782 ; the next minister 
was Rev. John Reed, D. D., who was ordained as colleague with Mr. Perkins in 1780. 

West Bridgewater is a very level township of land, and the 
meadows, called " Hockaniock meadows," produce large crops of 
hay of a superior kind. It lies 19 miles N. W. of Plymouth, 13 
north-easterly of Taunton, and 24 southerly of Boston. Popula- 
tion, 1,145. There are in the town 3 air and cupola furnaces, which, 
in 1837, made 430 tons of castings; value, .942.500 ; hands em- 
ployed 31; 1 manufactory for shovels, spades, forks or hoes. 
In 1837 there were 2,518 pairs of boots and 27,890 pairs of shoes 
manufactured; value, .^31,210; males employed, 43; females, 
25. There are 3 churches ; 1 Unitarian, 1 Baptist, and 1 New Je- 
rusalem. Population, 1,145. 

Bridgewater was the first interior settlement in the county of 
Plymouth, and many of the settlers were called to encounter the 
troubles and dangers of Indian warfare. During PhiUp's war they 
displayed great resolution and intrepidity. Surrounded by a 
savage foe, "they were strongly advised and solicited to desert their 
dwellings and repair down to the towns on the sea-side." They 
however resolutely kept their ground, and defended their settle- 
ment, and encouraged and assisted other towns to do the same. 
They erected a stockade, or garrison, on the south side of the river, 
and also fortified many of their dwellings. On April 9th, 1676, 
being Sunday, the enemy burnt a house and barn, and rifled seve- 
ral other houses in town ; but they soon fled, and could not be 
overtaken. On May 8th, about three hundred Indians, with Tis- 
paquin for their leader, made another assault on the east end of the 
town, on the south side of the river, and set fire to many of the 
houses, but " the inhabitants, issuing from their houses, fell upon 
them so resolutely that the enemy were repelled ; and a heavy 
shower of rain falling at the same time, the fires were soon extin- 
guished. The attack was then renewed on the north side of the 

71 



532 SUFFOLK COUNTY. 

river, but the enemy Avere soon defeated, and the next morning 
entirely disappeared, after burning two houses and one barn. On 
this occasion 13 houses and 4 barns only were burnt, and but five 
of these were in the village ; the rest were on the borders of the 
settlement, and deserted at the time. There is a tradition that, ex- 
cepting the garrison-houses, every house but one in the town was 
burnt. This was true, probably, of all the houses not in the vil- 
lage. 

A few weelvS previous to the death of Philip, the inhabitants of the town being 
alarmed at some appearance of the enemy, they immediately 'pressed Comfort Willis 
and Joseph Edson to g-o post to the governor, to give information. Capt. Church, with 
his company, was immediately sent to their assistance. About 20 men from Bridge- 
water, while on the road to meet Capt. Church, came upon the enemy, and fought 
them, and took seventeen alive, and also much plnnder. without losing a man. They 
joined Capt. Church ne.xt day, and soon captured and killed 173 Indians. These pri- 
soners were conveyed into the town pound at night, and an Indian guard set over them. 
"They were well treated with victuals and drink, and had a merry night; and the 
prisoners laughed as loud as the soldiers, not having been so well treated for a long 
time." The next day Capt. Church arrived safe at Plymouth, with all the prisoners. 
Notwithstanding the many dangers of this war, and the great number of the Bridgewater 
people engaged in it, it is a remarkable circumstance that not one of the inhabitants 
■was killed. The first person who fell in battle from this place was John Snell, who 
was killed in the old French war. Tlie second was Capt. Jacob Allen, who was killed 
at the capture of Burgoyne. — 1th vol. 2d Series Coll. Mass. Hist. Soc. 



SUFFOLK COUNTY. 

Suffolk County was incorporated in 1643. At this period it 
comprehended all the territory now within the counties of Suf- 
folk and Norfolk, together with the towns of Hingham and Hull, 
in Plymouth county. The county of Suflblk how comprehends 
only the city of Boston and the town of Chelsea, with the islands 
appertaining to each. Its greatest extent from the northern 
extremity of Chelsea to the Dorchester line is about 1 1 miles, and 
from West Boston bridge to the outer harbor about 10 miles. In 
1837, the population was 81,984. 



BOSTON 



The Indian name of Boston was Shawmvt, Avhich is supposed 
to have signified a spring of water. The first English name given 
to it was Tri/m)iintain, the literal signification of which is " three 
mountains;" for Boston was originally composed of three hills. 
These afterwards received the names of Copp's, Fort, and Beacon 
hills. On the last there were three distinct eminences, so elevated 
as to give this hill the appearance of a mountain when viewed 
from the low grounds of Charlestown. These eminences have 
been since called by the names of Mount Vernon, Beacon, and 
Pemberton hills. The modern name Tremoni alludes to the same 
circumstance. 



BOSTON. 633 

In 1630, the Plymouth colony, by the agency of the Earl of Warwick and Sir Fer- 
nando Gorges, obtained from the council lor New England its last patent. Prepara- 
nons having been made in the early part of this year, a fleet of fourteen sail, with men, 
women, and children, arrived in Massachusetts bay, on the 6th of July. In this fleet 
came Governor Winthrop, Deputy Governor Dudley, and several other gentlemen of 
wealth and distinction, together with about fifteen hundred other passengers. On the 
arrival of the principal ships at Charlestown, the governor and several of the patentees, 
having viewed the bottom of the bay of JMassachusetis, pitched down on the north side 
of Charles river, and took lodgings in the great house built there the preceding year. 
It aj^poars to have been ihe intention of the governor and company to have settled at 
thiol place, but the prevalence of a mortal sickness, which they ascribed to the badness 
of the wnter, induced them to remove. At this lime the Kev. Wm. Blackslone, an 
Episcopal minister, rather of an eccentric character, located himself on the penmsula 
of Shawraut, in a solitary manner, in a small cottage, which he built on tlie west side. 
Going over to Charlestown, he informed the governor of an excellent spring of water 
at Shawmut, and invited him over his side of the river. The principal gentlemen of 
the company, induced by this invitation, crossed the river, and finding it an eligible 
place, began a settlement there, by the erection of small cottages. The place was 
named Boston in compliment to Rev. John Cotton, who was at that time a preacher 
in Boston, in Lincolnshire, England, who was expected over very soon to join the 
colony. The town records for the four first years Irom the settlement of Boston are 
lost, but the records of the first church have been preserved, and in them it is probable 
the names of almost all the adult population at this time are inserted. The following 
IS a fac simile of the governor and deputy governor's signatures. 




Vv/> 



>r^4-ni^ 



;,0^^ 



f 



The following is an account of the first visit of the English at 
Plymouth to Boston harbor, in the words of one of the party :■ — 

" It seemed good to the company in seneral, that, though the Massachusetts (a tribe of Indians) had 
often threaieued us, (as we were informed.) yet we should aa amongst them, partly to see the country, partly 
to make peace with ihem, and partly to proouie their truck. Fur these ends the governiiurs chose ten 
men, fit for the purpose, and sent Tisquantum, and two other savages, to brmg us to speech with the peo- 
ple, and interpret for us. 

'' [On the l^lh of September, 1621, being Tuesday.] we set out about midnight, the tide then serving for 
113. We. supposing it to be nearer than it is, thought to tie there the next morning betimes ; but it proved 
well near iwe.ily le;igiies from New Plymouth. We came into the bottom of the bay, but being late, we 
anchored, and lay in the shallop, not having seen any of the people. The next morning we put in for the 
shore. There we foi'od many lolisters, that had been gathered together by the savages, which we made 
ready under a clitf, (Copp's hill, in Boston.) The cipiain sent two sentinels behind the clilT, to the land- 
ward, to secure the shallop, and taking a guide with him, and four of our company, went to seek the 
iiihahitants, where they met a woman coming for her lobsters; they told her of tliem, and contented her for 
them. She told them where the people were. Tisquantum went to them ; the rest returned, having 
Jirection which way to bring the shallop to them. 

" 'J'he sachem, or governour of this place, is called Obbalinewat. and. though he live in the bnttom of the 
JITa.ss:ichusel I5ay. yet he is muler .Massasoyl. He used us very kinilly : he lolil us lie durst not remain ia 
any s,?ttled place, fur fear of the Tareiilines : also the scp.aw sachem or Massachiisi Is queen was an enemy 
to him. We told him of divers sachems that had acknowledged themsidves to be King James his men. and 
if he also would submit himself we would te hb safeguard from his enemies ; which he did, and went along 
with us to bring us to the 3:iuaw .sachem. 

" Again we crossed the bay, which is very large and hath at least fifty islands in it, but the certain num- 
l)er is iiut known to the inhabitants. Night it W;iS before we came to that side of the bay wh.Te Ibis peo- 
ple were. that night also we rid at anchor aboard the shallop. On the morrow we went ashore all but 

two men, and marched in arms up the country. Having gone tht'/e miles, we came to a place where 
com had lieen newly gathercl, a house pullt-d down, and the people gone. A mile from hence, Nanepos- 
hemet, their king, m his lifetime had lived. His house was not like others, hut a scaffold was largely 
built, with poles and planks, some si.v foot from ground, and the house upon that, being situated on the top 
of a hill. 

■' Not far from hence, in a bottom, we came to a fort built by their deceased king, the manner thus : 
there were poles, some thirty or forty feci long, stuck in the ground as thick a^ they could be set one by 
another, and with the-se they enclosed a ring some forty or fifty feet over. A trench breast high was 
(Jiffired on e.ich side : one way there was to iro into it with a bridjje. In the mid.sl of this palisado stood tlia 
frame of an house, wherein, bting dead, he lay buried. 



534 BOSTON. 

" About a mile from hence we came to such another, but seated on the top of an hill ; here Nanepashe- 
met was killeii, none dwelling in it since the lime of his death. At this place we staid, and sent two savaiges 
to look the inhaljilaiils. and to inform thr^m of our ends in coming, that they might not be fearful of U9. 
Within a mile of this place they found the women of the place together, will) their corn on heaps, whither 
we supposed them to be lied for fear of us. and tlie more, because in divers places they had newly pulled 
down their houses, and for haste in one place had left some of their corn, covered with a mat, and nobody 
wilh it. 

" Wilh much fear they entertained tis at first, but seeing our gentle carriage towards them, they took 
heart and entertained us in the best manner ihey could, bfiiliiig cod and such other things as they had-for 
us. At lengih, with much sendi.ig for, came one of their men, shaking and tremliling for fear. But when 
he saw that we intended theni nn hurt, but came to truck, he promiseit us wilh his skins also. Of him we 
inquired'foi their queen ; but it .seemed she was far from thence ; at least we could not see her. Here Tis- 
quantum would have had us rilled the .savage women, and taken their skins, and all such things as might 
be serviceable fjr us; for (said he) they are a bad people, and have oft threatened you. But our answer 
was, were they never so bad, we would not wrong them, or give them any just occasion against us ; for their 
words, we little weighed them, hut if they once attempted any thing against us, then we would deal far 
worse than he desired. Having well spent the day, we returned to the shallop, almost all the women 
accompanying us to the shore. We promised them to come again to them, and they us to keep their 
skins. 

" Within this bay the savages say there are two rivers ; the one whereof we saw, having a fair entrance, 
but we had no time to discover it. Belter harbours fir shipping cannot be than here are. At the entrance 
of the bay are many rocks; and in all likelihood good fishing ground. Many, yea, most of the islands 
have been inhabited, some being cleared from end to end. but the people are all dead or removed. Our 
victual growing scarce, the wind cominJf fair, and having a light moon, we set out at evening, and, 
through the goodness of God, came safely home before noon the day following, wilh a considerable quantity 
of beaver, and a good report of the place, wishing we had been seated there." 

About the year 1663, Boston was described in Johnson's " Won- 
der-working Providence" in the following manner : — 

" Invironed it is with brinish flood, saving one small Istmos, which gives free access to the neighboring 
towns by land, on the south side, on the northwest and northeast. Two constant fairs are kept for daily 
Iratique thereunto. The form of this town is like a heart, naturally situated for fortifications, having two 
hills on the frontier pan thereof next the sea. ihe one well fortified on the superficies thereof wilh store of 
great artillery well mounted ; the other hath a very strong battery built of whole limber, and filled with 
earth. At the descent of the hill, in the extreme poynt thereof, beiwixl lliese two strong arms, lies a cove 
or bay, on which the chief part of this town is built, overtopped wilh a third hill ; all these, like overtopping 
towers, keep a constant watch lo see the apprnach of foreign dangers, being furnished wilh a beacon and 
loud babbling guns, to give notice by their redoubled echo to all the sister towns. The chief edifice of this 
city-like town is cruwded on tlie sea-banks, and wliarfed out wilh great labour and cost; the buildings 
beautiful and large, some fairly set forth with brick tile, stone and slate, and orderly placed wilh semely 
Blreels, whose continual enlargement presageth some sumptuous city. But now behold the admirable acts 
of Christ, at ihis his people's landing; the hideous thickets in this place were such that wolves and bears 
nurst up tlieir young from the eyes of all beholders, in those very places where the streets are full of girls 
and boys, sporting up and down with continued concourse of people. Good store of shipping is here yearly 
built, and some very fair ones. This town is tlie very mart of the land ; Dutch, French, and Portugalls 
come here to trafique." 

The city of Boston, the capital of Massachusetts and New Eng- 
land, in its present limits is naturally divided into three sections, — 
Boston, Soutii Boston, and East Boston. 

The peninsula on which Old Boston is built extends from Rox- 
bury on the south to Winnesimet ferry on the north, and is nearly 
surrounded by the waters of Boston harbor on the east and Charles 
river on the north and west. Its length is nearly three miles, and 
its average breadth about one mile. It originally contained about 
700 acres, but its territory has been greatly extended, by filling up 
around its borders. Its surface is quite uneven. It has numerous 
eminences, rising from 50 to 110 feet above the sea, affording admi- 
rable sites for building, and giving it a striking appearance. It is 
in north Lat. 42° 21' 23", and west Lon. 71° 4' 9". It lies 163 
miles S. S. W. from Augusta, Me.; 63 S. S. E. from Concord, N. H".; 
160 S. E. by S. from Montpelier, Vt.; 158 E. (19' S.) from Albany, 
N. Y.; 40 N. N. E. from Providence, R. 1.; 97 E. N. E. from Hart- 
ford, Ct.; 207 N. E. by E. from New York, and 432 miles N. E. 
by E. from Washington. 

Avenues. — The peninsular situation of Boston requires many artificial avenues to 
and from the surrounding country. Until 1786, the "Neck," between Boston and 
Roxbury, one mile and 1 17 feet in length, was the only passage to it by land. On the 



BOSTON, 535 

17th June, of that year, the Charles River Bridge, leading from Boston to Charlestowa, 
was opened for travel. It was incorporated March 9, 1785. This bridge is 1,503 feel 
in length, 42 in breadth, and cost $50,000. Net revenue in 1834, $9,383, This 
bridge by its charter becomes state property in 1856. 

West Boston Bridi^e, leading to Cambridge, was opened on the 23d of November, 
1793. It was incorporated March 9, 1792. Length of the bridge, 2,758 feet ; abut- 
ment and causeway, 3,432 ; total length. 6,190 feet. Cost, $76,667. Net revenue in 
1834, $12,928. This bridge will become state property in 1879. 

South Boston Bridge, leading from Boston Neck to South Boston, was incorporated 
March 6, 1804, and opened for travel in July, 1805. Length, 1,550 feet ; width, 40. 
It cost the proprietors about $50,000. It is now city property, free. 

Canal Bridge, from Boston to Lechmere Point, in East Cambridge, was incorporated 
February 27,^1807, and opened for travel in August, 1809. Length, 2,796 feet ; width, 
40. A lateral bridge extends from this to Prison Point, Charlestown. Length, 1,820 ; 
width, 35 feet. Net receipts in 1834, $3,173. This bridge will become state property 
in 1879. 

The Western Avenue, leading from Beacon street to ServeU's Point, in Brookliue, 
was incorporatea June 14, 1814, and commenced in 1818. It was opened for travel 
July 2, 1821. This avenue is a substantial dam across Charles River bay, about a 
mile and a half in length, and from 60 to 100 feet in width. This dam encloses about 
600 acres of flats, over which the tide formerly flowed from 7 to 10 feet. A partition 
dam divides this enclosure, and forms, b}"^ the aid of flood and ebb gates, a full and 
receiving basin ; thereby producing, at all times, a great hydraulic power. The cross 
dam also forms an excellent avenue from the main dam to Roxbury. Cost, about 
$700,000. Net receipts in 1834, $6,133. The proprietors of this avenue claim a per- 
petual franchise. 

Boston Free Bridge, from Sea street to South Boston. Incorporated March 4, 1826 ; 
completed in 1828. Length, 500 ; width, 38 feet. Built by proprietors of lands in the 
vicinity. City property. Warren Bridge, leading to Charlestov\Ti. Length, 1,390 
feet; width, 44. Incorporated March 12, 1828, and opened on the December follow- 
ing. It is now state property. The net receipts of this bridge in 1834 were $16,427. 
All the above avenues are Ughted with lamps, when necessary, and make a beautiful 
appearance. 

Middlesex Canal passes in a northerly direction from Boston harbor, at Charlestown, 
through Medford, 5 miles from Boston, Woburn, 10, — Wilmington, 14, — to Lowell, at 
the locks and canals at that place, 27 miles. It was incorporated in 1789, and com- 
pleted in 1808, at an expense of $828,000. Its breadth at the surface is 30 feet, at 
bottom 20, depth, 4 feet ; summit level, 104 feet above tide water, and 32 feet above 
the Merrimac at Lowell. This and other short canals on the Merrimac open a navi- 
gable communication between Boston and Concord, N. H. This was the first enter- 
prise of the kind attempted in the United States. 

The Boston and Providence Eailroad was incorporated in 1831. The road commences 
on the south-west side of the Common, in Boston, crosses the Worcester railroad, 
passes through Roxbury, the eastern part of Dedham, and western part of Canton, 
Sharon, Foxborough, Attleborough, and Pawtucket, to Seekonk. and terminates at 
India bridge, which crosses the Pawtucket river to Providence. It is 41 miles in 
length, and cost $1,150,000. (For a notice of the Lowell and the Worcester railroads, 
see those places.) 

Boston Harbor extends across Light-House Channel and Broad Sound, from 
Point Alderton on Nantasket to Point Shirley in Chelsea, a distance, between the 
islands, of about 4 miles. It is safe, and of ample capacity for the largest navy. The 
most important part of this harbor is entered by a narrow pass, between two and 
three miles below the city, and is well protected by two powerful forts — Independence 
and Warren. The outer harbor, below these forts, will shortly be protected by a very 
powerful fortress now erecting on George's Island, at a great expense, by the govern- 
ment of the United States. Boston harbor contains many islands of great beauty, and 
is the reservoir of the Mystic, Charles, Neponset, Manatiquot, and other rivers. Its 
borders are environed by the towns of Hull, Hingham, Weymouth, Braintree, Quincy, 
Dorchester, Roxbury, Erookline, Cambridge, Charlestown, and Chelsea ; and the 
numerous small bays, coves, and inlets, indenting their shores, give great variety, and 
add much to the scenery of this delightful harbor. 

Owing to the almost insular situation of Boston, and its limited extent, its popula- 
tion appears small. But it must be considered that the neighboring towns of Quincy, 
Dorchester, Milton, Roxbury, Brookline, Brighton, Watertown, Cambridge, Charles- 
town, Medford, Maiden, and Chelsea, although not included in the city charter, are 



636 BOSTON. 

component parts of the city, and are as much associated with it in all its commercial, 
manufacturing, literary, and social relations and feelings, as Greenwich, Manhattan- 
ville, and Harlem are with the city of New York, or Southwark and the Northern 
Liberties with Philadelphia. 

The population of Boston in 1700 was 7.000 ; 1722, 10,567 ; 1765, 15,520 ; 1790, 
18,038 ; 1800, 24,937 ; 1810, 33,250 ; 1820, 43,298 ; 1830, 61,391 ; and in 1837, 80,325. 
Commerce. — The citizens of Boston have ever sustained a high rank for their com- 
mercial enterprise. After whitening every sea with their canvass, and extending their 
commerce with all nations of the globe, they are now looking westward and northward, 
and constructing new and artificial channels, to enable them not only to compete with 
other Atlantic cities for the already immense commerce of the western world, but to 
interi;ept it on ils passage down the St. Lawrence. 

The number of vessels entered at this port the year ending September 30, 1837, 
was 1,511; tonnage, 242,277 tons; crews, 11,503; cleared, 1,367; tonnage, 184,373 
tons; crews, 9,177. The registered, enrolled, and licensed tonnage of this port, the 
same year, was 201,005 tons. A large amount of tonnage, owned at Boston, is re- 
gistered at southern ports. 

CoMMEr.ciAi. Accommodations. — There is probably no place in the world better ac- 
commodated lor commercial operations than Boston. The whole length of the harbor 
on the east and north is lined with about 200 docks and wharves. A few of them 
only can be noticed. 

India Wluirf, at the foot of Fort Hill, was constructed in 1805. It extends into the 
harbor 980 feet, and is 246 to 280 feet in width. In the center is a range of 39 stores, 
22 by 80, and 4 stories in height. 

Central Wharf, between India and Long wharves, was built in 1816. In the center 
are 54 warehouses, 23 by 50, 4 stories high. It is 1,379 feet in length, and 150 in 
width. Over a spacious hall in the center of this range of stores, is one of the best 
observatories in the United States. 

North of this is Long Wharf, at the foot of State street, commenced in 1710. This 
wharf extends into the harbor 1,800 feet, is 200 feet in width, and has 76 spacious 
warehouses. About the center of this wharf is a well of fresh water, 90 feet in depth. 
Passing the City wharf on the north, we come to Commercial Wharf, 1,100 feet in 
length, and 160 in width. On the center of this wharf is a range of 34 granite ware- 
houses, 25 by 60 feet, and are unequalled by any thing of the kind in the United 
States for convenience or grandeur. Cost, $500,000. 

On the west, and in front of this tier of wharves, which run into the harbor nearly 
parallel to each other, are India and Commercial streets, having the east end of Faneuil 
Hall Market nearly in the center. These streets are wide ; they serve as wharves, 
and their west sides are covered with large and convenient stores. It is contemplated 
to extend India street, on the south, to the Free bridge on Sea street ; and Commercial 
street, on the north, to Winnesimet ferry. 

The Marine Laihvays, established in 1826, at the north part of the city, afford great 
accommodations to those engaged in na\'igation. A new and splendid Custom-House 
is now erecting on India street, between Long and Central wharves. An Exchange, 
for the accommodation of merchants, and a new City Hall, are contemplated. 

Boston Common. — This is considered one of the most delightful promenades in the 
world. It comprises about 75 acres of land, of variegated surface, beautifully shaded 
by trees of various kinds, particularly in the malls or walks which surround it. Some 
of those trees were planted more than a hundred years ago. The malls are wide, 
beveled, graveled, and smooth ; the waters of Charles river, and the romantic scenery 
beyond it. are in prospect. The whole is enclosed by an iron fence, on the outside of 
which are wide streets and beautiful buildings. The distance around the malls and 
common is about a mile. This plot of ground is so held by the city, that it can never 
be appropriated to any other than its present healthful and pleasing purposes. 

The foundation of a large and splendid Botanic Garden was laid in 1837, by the 
subscription of funds for that purpose. It is located on the city lands, on the west 
side of the Common. This will be a great ornament to the city, and an honor to the 
taste and judgment of ils projectors. 

South Bostox. — This part of Boston was set off from Dorchester, by legislative 
enactment, I\Iarch the 6th, 1804. It is bounded south by Dorchester bay, and spreads 
about two miles on the south side of the harbor, above the forts. It contains about 
600 acres, and is laid out into regular streets and squares. The surface of this part 
of Boston is exceedingly picturesque. In about the center of this tract, and about two 
miles from the City Hall, the memorable " Dorchester Heights " rear their heads 



BOSTON 



537 




Northern vierv of part of South Boston. 

130 feet above the sea, from which is presented a splendid view of Boston, its harbor, 
and the surrounding country. It is connected with Old Boston by two bridges. This 
part of Boston is rapidly increasing in population and wealth. The ]l"asfii)igto>i House, 
(seen on the left, in the cut,) near the "Heights," is a noble building, having an exten- 
sive prospect in almost every direction. 

The Houses of Industry, Correction, and Reformation are situated on a plot of 
ground of about 60 acres on the margin of the harbor, and near the brow of the 
" Heights," in South Boston. " The House of Industry is a large stone building, 
wholly devoted as a place of refuge for the poor, who are old, infirm, or otherwise 
unable to sixpport themselves ; and as a workhouse for those who cannot, or will not, 
maintain themselves. This establishment is of the same character of that which stood 
on Park street many years ago, and Avhich was removed to Barton's Point in 1800, 
where a beautiful building was erected for its accommodation, but which was sold, and 
the present house built in 1823. From the 7th of August, 1823, to June 2d, 1835, the 
number admitted to this house was 8,211. The number of admissions and re-admis- 
sions in 1834 was 979, besides 32 births in the house. There remained in the house, 
December 31, 1834, 610. ' I3.383 different individuals were inmates in 1834, for longer 
and shorter periods of time, (some of whom were out and in several times,) while 
only 237 have remained steadily in the house the whole year.' Of this number 600 
■were men, 404 women, 223 boys, and 153 girls. Of this number 71 men and 57 
women were insane or idiotic, and 8 idiot children. Of this number 268 were Bosto- 
nians, 274 were from other parts of the United States, and 841 were foreigners. It 
is observed by the superintendent, that 'there has been, for several years, a constant 
diminution of native Americans supported in the house, with more than a correspond- 
ing increase of foreigners. A large proportion of these travel into the state by land, 
from the British Provinces, and from other states.' The number of foreigners ad- 
mitted into this house in 10 j'ears was 3,09^. 

" House of Correction. This house is a few rods east of the House of Industry, and 
occupies at present only the easterly part of a large stone building. This is a county 
prison for convicts too young in vice to place in the state prison, but too old in vicious 
habits to require much less discipline. The commitments to this house are from the 
municipal and pohce courts. None exceed 8 years. The plan of the house, although 
at present limited in extent, is admirably fitted for its uses. It is on the plan of the 
Auburn prison, m the state of New York, which cannot well be described here. It is 
worthy of a visit from all classes of people, both good and bad ; it teaches solemn 
lessons ; and whilst we pity and deplore its convict' inmates for their state of degra- 
dation, we cannot but admire that order and discipline by which so large a number of 
men and women are kept in such quiet subjection. The number of white males at 
this house January 1st, 1834, was 160; white females, 85; colored males, 10; col- 
ored females, 13 ; total, 268. Of this number 84 belonged to Massachusetts, 63 were 
from other states, and 121 were foreigners. On the first of January, 1835, there were 
at this house 178 white males, 74 white females, 14 colored males, and 20 colored 



638 



BOSTON. 



females ; total, 286. Of this number 153 were people of the United States, and 133 
foreigners. 

" In the right wing of the latter building is the House of Reformation for Juvenile 
Offenders. The number is generally between 80 and 90. The above buildings are 
each 220 feet in length and 43 feet in width. A new building is erecting on the city 
land, south of these buildings, for a House of Reformation ; when it is completed, the 
Hou,se of Correction will occupy the whole of the present building. These houses are 
severally governed by boards of overseers." 




South-western vkiv of East Boston. 

East Boston. — The above is a south-western view of part of East Boston, as seen 
from Lewis' wharf, East Boston ferryway. This section of the city, until recently, 
had been called Noddle's Island. It lies about 660 yards north-east from Old Boston, 
and about the same distance from Charlestown. It is divided from Chelsea by Chelsea 
Creek, 600 feet wide, over which is a bridge, and from which is an excellent road to 
the Salem turnpike. The Eastern railroad, to Salem, Newburyport, dec, commences 
at East Boston. The island contains about 660 acres of land, and a large body of 
flats. Ii was purchased by a company of enterprising gentlemen in 1832. They 
were incorporated in March, 1833, and the first house was commenced in October of 
the same year. A steamboat ferry is established between this place and Old Boston, 
starting from each side every ten "minutes. The time occupied in crossing is about 
five minutes. A ferry is about being established between this island and Charles- 
town. The surface of the island is pleasingly variegated, and affords delightful sites 
for dwelling-houses and gardens at moderate prices. This place is well located for 
manufactories of various kinds ; particularly for ship-building, and all those branches 
of mechanics connected with navigation. 

The Mnverick Hotel, seen in the central part of the engraving, is a large and splen- 
did building, occupying a commodious site. This house is named in honor of Samuel 
Maverick, who owned the island and resided there in 1630, and who is said to have 
made " some figure in the history of after times — a man of very loving and courteous 
behavior, and very readv to entertain strangers." 

Finances.— The publ'ic debt of the city of Boston on the first of May, 1837, was 
$1,197,200. The receipts, during the financial year, from the 30th of April, 1836, to 
30th of April, 1837, was $926,350— the expenditures, $904,065. Besides the public 
property in public buildings, city and other wharves, &c. &c., both improved for city 
purposes and rented, the city has about 7,000,000 square feet of land on the Neck, ex- 
clusive of streets, public squares, and malls, and a very large property in other lands 
in various parts of the city, which are rapidly increasing in value. The amount of 
this property cannot be stated, but it is known greatly to exceed the city debt, exclusive 
of that part which is wanted for the uses of the city. 

The following, respecting Boston, is copied entire from the 
" Statistical Tables," published by the state, 1837. 



BOSTON. 639 

"Number of merino sheep, on the first of April, 178 ; number of pounds of merino 
wool raised in the year, 712 ; average weight of fleece, i lbs. ; value of wool, $356 ; 
capital invested, $53t. Boots manufactured, 15,047 pairs ; shoes, 24,626 pairs ; value 
of boots and shoes, $102,641 ; males employed, 304; females, 55. (The return also 
states, that there were manufactured, in various towns in the commonwealth, by the 
agents of persons residing in Boston, and exclusively on Boston capital, 50,604 pairs 
of boots, and 952,640 pairs of shoes, employing 1,431 males and 583 females, amount- 
ing in value to $957,289.) Value of leather curried, $228,000 ; hands employed, 50 ; 
capital invested, $60,000. Hat manufactories, 12 ; hats manufactured, 76,317 ; value 
of hats, $194,673 ; males employed, 95 ; females, 68. Air and cupola furnaces, 5 ; 
iron castings made, 4,000 tons ; value of same, $372,000 ; hands employed, 289 ; 
capital invested, $665,000. Axe manufactory, 1 ; axes manufactured, 6,000 ; value 
of axes, $7,500 ; hands employed, 8 : capital invested, $2,000. Glass manufactories, 3 : 
value of glass, $48,000; hands employed, 77; capital invested, $47,000. Chair and 
cabinet manufactories, 23 ; value of chairs and cabinet ware, $148,100 ; hands employed, 
164. Comb manufactories, 4; value of combs, $41,000; males employed, 25; 
females, 16 ; capital invested in shell, horn and ivory, $121,000. Tin ware manufac- 
tories, 37 ; value of tin ware, $112,032 ; hands employed, 116. Distilleries, 13 ; mo- 
lasses distilled, 2,574,600 gallons, producing 2,317,140 gallons of spirit ; gross value 
of spirits, $926,856. Straw bonnets manufactured, 116,200 ; value of straw bonnets, 
$182,450 ; males employed, 19 ; females, 438. Vessels built in the five years preced 
ing April 1, 1837, 37 ; tonnage of the same, 8,612 ; value of same, $622,000 ; hands 
employed in building, 86 ; (number of vessels, built within the five years, in other 
towns, which ' received their papers ' at the Boston custom-house, 266 ; tonnage of 
the same, 59,670.) Vessels employed in the whale fishery, 5 ; tonnage of the same, 
1,550 ; sperm oil imported in those vessels, 88,100 gallons ; whale oil, 68,169 gallons 
value of sperm oil, $70,619 ; value of whale oil, $25,604 ; hands employed, 125 
capital invested, $155,000. Vessels employed in the cod and mackerel fishery, 152 
tonnage of same, 9,703; cod-fish caught, 127,250 qixintals ; value thereof, $408,509 90: 
mackerel caught, 43,266 barrels ; value of same, $320,165 ; salt used in the cod ana 
mackerel fishery, 142,567 bushels ; hands employed, 1,794 ; capital invested, $593,200. 
Manufactory of axletrees, 1 ; value of axletrees manufactured, $10,000 ; hands em- 
ployed, 6; capital invested, $6,000. Brewer}^, 1; value of beer, $12,000; hands 
employed, 8 ; capital invested, $30,000. Manufactories of soap and candles, 7 ; value 
of soap and candles, $93,000 ; hands employed, 29 ; capital invested, $125,000. 
' Manufacture of sperm oil,' (refining,) 25 tons. Manufactory of whale oil, (refin- 
ing,) 1; value of oil refined, $135,000; hands employed, 16; capital invested, 
$100,000. Copper smitheries and brass foundries, 13 ; value of manufactures, 
$756,754 ; hands employed, 200; capital invested, $316,300. Piano-forte and organ 
manufactories, 7 ; number of piano-fortes manufactured, 1,033 ; organs, 11 ; value 
of pianos and organs, $302,700 ; hands employed, 220 ; capital invested, $163,500. 
Brush manufactories, 4 ; value of brushes, $93,000; males employed, 79 ; females, 
59 ; capital invested, $38,000. Manufactories of gold and silver leaf, 5 ; value of 
gold and silver, $43,000 ; males employed, 22 ; females, 14 ; capital invested, $11,200. 
Manufactories of coaches, chaises and harnesses, 14 ; value of articles made, .$128,805 ; 
hands employed, 149 ; capital invested, $82,200. Manufactories of refined sugar, 4 j 
value of sugar refined, $976,454 ; hands employed, 92 ; capital invested, $.303,653. 
Manufactories of jewelry, 3 ; value of jewelry, $63,000 ; hands employed, 36 ; capi- 
tal invested, $91,000. Manufactory of chain cables, 1 ; value of cables, $60,000 ; 
hands employed, 20 ; capital invested, $75,000. Blanufactories of silver ware, 5 ; 
value of ware, $165,100 ; hands employed, 52 ; capital invested, $20,050. Manufac- 
tories of umbrellas, 10 ; value of umbrellas, $65,000 ; males employed, 37 ; females, 
26 ; capital invested, $36,500. Manufactories of saddles, trunks and whips, 15 ; value 
of articles, $177,000 ; males employed, 120 ; females, 17 ; capital invested, $83,000. 
Manufactories of granite, marble and other stone, 17 ; value of articles manufactured, 
$336,000; hands employed, 400: capital invested, $165,500. Manufactories of 
machinery, 16 ; value of machinery, $326,000 ; hands employed, 287 ; capital in- 
vested, $183,775. Manufactories of blank books and stationery, 5 ; value of articles, 
$78,000 ; males employed, 43 ; females, 7 ; capital invested, $49,000. Manufactory 
of gas, 1 ; value of gas, $100,000 ; hands employed, 40 ; capital invested, $375,000. 
Manufactories of looking-glasses, 8; value of articles, $147,500; hands employed, 
42; capital invested, $55,600. Manufactories of lasts, 2; value of lasts, $40,000; 
hands employed, 29 ; capital invested, $18,000 ; lasts manufactured, 240,000. Manu- 
factories of neck-stocks and suspenders, 8 ; value of these articles, $122,000 ; males 
employed, 21 ; females, 435 ; capital invested, $58,200. Type and stereotype foun- 
dries, 4; value of types and stereotypes manufactured, 1157,000; males employed. 



640 BOSTON. 

185; females, 30; capital invested, $140,000. Manufactories of printed books, 4 ; 
value of printed books, S925,000 ; males employed, 500 ; females, 400 ; capital in- 
vested, .$850,000. Manufactories of clothing, 97; value of clothing, $1,765,666; 
males employed, 542 ; females, 2,402 ; capital invested, $710,894." 

Bankixs and Insurance Co.mpanies. — There are twenty-six banks, with a capital 
of about 18 millions of dollars. The charters of these banks, as well as of all banking 
companies in the commonwealth, expire by limitation in 1851. The oldest bank in 
the commonwealth is the Massachusetts Bank, in Boston. It was incorporated in 
1785. The Union Bank was incorporated in 1792 ; the Boston Bank in 1803. Most 
of the other banks in Boston are of a much more recent date. 

There are twenty-seven insurance companies in Boston, with a capital of $7,600,000, 
besides the Massachusetts Hospital Life Insurance Company, ^vith a capital of 
$500,000, and the Massachusetts Mutual Fire Insurance Company. The charters of 
these companies are subject to the control of the legislature. 

Schools and Institutions. — The first .settlers of New England were exceedingly 
tenacious of their civil and religious rights, and they well knew that hiorcled^e was an 
all-powerful engine to preserve those rights, and transmit them to their posterity. 
They therefore very early laid the foundation of those free scfiools. of which all the 
sons and daughters of New England are justly proud. E.xclnsive of Infant and Sab- 
bath school scholars, about a quarter part of the population of Boston is kepi at school 
throughout the year, at an annual expense of about $200,000. Boston is not only 
celebrated for its schools, but for its munificent donations in support of its uistitutions 
for moral, religious and literary purposes. Since the year 1800, not less than two 
millions of doHars have thus been appropriated by the citizens of Boston. 

The Massachusetts General Hospital was incorporated in 1811. It is divided into 
two departments, the Hospital in Boston, and the McLean Asylum at Charlestown, of 
which an account has been given. (See Charlestown.) The institution is under the 
management of a board of twelve trustees, and a board of five visiters. The fund.? 
of the institution, including the munificent donations of the late John McLean and 
Miss Mary Belknap, are about $120,000. In the hospital in Boston the number of 
patients received since its establishment, to June, 1835, was 5,658. The average 
number of sick in the house is about 45. The average cost to the institution for each 
patient, for five successive years, was $1,62 a week. Whilst no patient pays more 
than $3 a week, (except a few who have extra rooms and attendants,) nearly two 
thirds of the whole number are entirely free ; consequently, those who do not pay 
receive $4,62, and those who do pay receive $1,62 a week from the funds of this noble 
charity. 

Nvw Evglnnd Tns/i/ntioyi for the Education of the Blind. — This irislitiition wiw incorporated in 
1829; bul liule was accomplished uiuil 1S32, when Dr. H^nve returned from Europe, accompanied by a 
blind teaclier; manifesting that zeal in the cau.se of the blind which hid distinsuished hi.s philantliropic 
labors in another sphere, in a distant land. He opened a schfK.l with six Wind youaj scholars. The pro- 
gress of ttiose children was so ^reat, and the value of an institution of the kind so apparent, that legislatures 
and citizens eenerally became much interested. By public and private donations, particularly tjy the 
influence of ladies in several parts of New England, and by the munilicent gift of a splendid building in 
Pearl street, by the Hon. Thomas H. Perkins, the institution has incre:ised, both in reputation and funds, 
with unparalleled success. The scholars are instructed in all those branches common in other schools, and 
some of them in the higher branches of literature. Music is the study of all. Mechanic.il labors are 
taught and enjoyed by the pupils. Musical instruments nf all kinds, and other implements, are provided 
for their convenience and use. A printing press is establi.shed, and several books have hcou printed in 
embossed letters, which are superior to any in Europe. It is exceedingly delightful to see the.se interesting 
youths, whose lives once seemed a dreary waste, and witnessing their improvement in acfiuiring useful 
knowledge, partaking of all tho.se recreations natural and proper fur their age, sex. and condition, and fitting 
themselves for useful stations in society. The institution is managed by a board of trustees, and is patron- 
ized by the governments of all the New England states. 

Ewe and Ear Infirmary. — This institution was commenced in Boston, by Drs. JefMes and Reynold.s, 
in 1S24, from a conviction of its utility and imp<irtance, derived from what they had seen and known of 
similar establishments in Europe. Tiiose gentlemen conducted the e.stablishment at their own expense 
for some time, during which large numbers received the most important benefits In 1^27, by the philan- 
thropic exertions of those and other gentlemen, an act of incorporation was obtained, and .some funds 
were raised As early as 1S2S, 2.610 cases were treated at the infirmary, of which about five sixths were 
cured. Of these cases about one sixth were for diseases of the ear. Since that time the number of appli- 
cants has increased annually ; and this institution, whose merits are noisurpa-ssed by any other in the city, 
has now a tieautiful and conunodious building in Bowdoin Square for the reception of patients. 

Theaters. — The Boston Theater, on Federal and Franklin streets, was first opened February 3, 1794. 
It was burnt Feljruary 2, l7yS: it w.-h rebuilt, and re-opened on the 29th of October, the same year. It 
is of brick. 152 feet long, 61 wide, and 40 high. This building is now denominated " The Odeon," and is 
consecrated to tlie worship of God. .\ huge wooden building was erected on Tremont street, and opened 
as the " Hay-market Theater," December 26, 1796. The citizens in its neighborhood, being fearful of its 
conflagration, cruised its demolition by subscription, and the block of elegant brick dwelling-houses near 
jind north of Boylston street now occupy the spot. 

The Tremont Theater, on Tremont street, is a very neat building, ■with a granite 
front, 135 feet by 79. It was commenced in July, and opened September 24, 1827. 
CosI, about $120,000. 



BOSTON 



541 



The National Theater, at the junction q{ Portland and Traverse streets, near the 
Warren bridge, was constructed in 1831. This building was first used for equestrian 
performances. 

The Massachusetts Historical Society was incorporated in February, 1794. The ob- 
ject of this society is to collect, preserve, and communicate materials for a complete 
history of this country, and accounts of all valuable eflbrts of human ingenuity and 
industry froni the beginning of its settlement, &c. "The library consists principally 
of printed book.s and MSS. on American history, though by no means exclusively 
coiifmed to it. It numbers near six thousand articles, many of which are precious. 
The most ancient MSS. are probably a fragment of the laws of Hoel Dha, in Welsh, 
and a specimen, in a medical treatise, of the English language in the reign of Richard 
II., with an illuminated missal, and a few similar productions. Then follow autograph 
letters and treatises of several of the fathers of Js'ew England. A large collection of 
these, and of documents of a more recent date, had been made by Gov. Trumbull of 
Connecticut, and are now bound in 23 volumes folio, the property of this society." The 
publications of the society have consisted almost entirely of their " Collections." 
These now extend to two decades, and six volumes of a third. Among the collections 
of the society are a number of ancient and modern paintings of distinguished persons. 
Among these is a portrait of the first Gov. Winslow, supposed to have been painted 
by Vandyke. 

The Boston Atheneum originated in 1806, and has now become a most valuable and 
splendid library, with all desirable conveniences for literary pursuits. The number of 
volumes is above 2o.000. There is a large collection of medals and pictures and 
statuary. A reading-room contains almost all the periodicals of the day, with 
the most valuable public newspapers and journals. The building was presented 
in part to the institution by the late Mr. James Perkins, a public-spirited and liberal 
merchant of the city. Subscribers to the Atheneum have privileges in proportion to 
their subscriptions or interest in the property of the institution. A proprietor pays 
$300, and has a right to 3 tickets of admission. A life subscriber pays $100 for his 
own benefit. An annual subscriber has the privileges of the Atheneum for $10 
per year. 

la the rear of the Atheneum is the Gulknj of Fine Arts, or Atheneum Hall. The 
buildmg is- of three stories, 60 feet long and 50 wide. The lower story is divided into 
apartments for libraries and apparatus; the second is a lecture-room that accommo- 
dates 500 persons ; the third is an exhibition room, fitted purposely for the exhibition 
of paintings. The patronage which this institution has received is an honor to the 
citizens of Boston, and, with other examples of munificence, has acquired for the city 
the distinction of being the literary emporium of the western world. 

The following list of the churches in Boston, with the date of 
their organization, is taken from Dickinson's Boston Almanac, for 
1839. 

CONGREGATIONAL. 



Chauncy place - . • • 
Second Church, Hanover st 
Old South, Washington st. 
Brattle street . - - - 
New North, Hanover st. - 
New South, Summer st. - 
Federal street . . - - 
Hollis street - . - - • 
West Church, Lynde st. - 
King's Chapel, tremont st. 

Park street 

Hawes place. South Boston 
Union, Essex street - - 



1632 
1649 
1669 
1699 
1714 
1716 
1730 
1732 
1736 
1686 
1809 
1822 
1822 



Phillip's, South Boston .... 1823 

Twelfth Cong. Chambers ft. . . . 1824 

Purchase street 1826 

Bowdoin street 1826 

Greene street ....... 1826 

Pine street 1827 

Salem Church, Salem st. ■ . . 1827 

South Cong. Washington st. - ■ - 1827 

Mariner's, Fort Hill 1828 

Marlboro' Chapel, Chapel place 

Franklin street (Odeon) .... 1835 

East Boston 1836 



BAPTIST. 



First, Hanover street 1664 

Second, Baldwin place 1743 

Third, Charles street 1807 

Fourth, Federal street 1827 



Independent, Belknap street • • - 1805 
North, Hanover Avenue .... 1835 
South Boston 1831 



542 



BOSTON. 



EPISCOPAL. 



Christ, Salem street 1723 

Trinity, Summer street . - . - 1734 
St. Matthews, South Boston - - 1818 



St. Paul's, Tremont street • • • 1820 

Grace, Temple street 1829 

Free, Common street 1836 



METHODIST. 



First, North Bcnnet street - • • 1792 
Second, Bromtield street - - . . 18(36 
Colored, May street 1826 



Fourth, Church street 
Fifth, South Boston • 
Sixth, Blossom street 



UNIVERSALIST. 



Fourth, South Boston 
Filth, Warren street • 



First, Hanov^er street 1786 

Second, School street 1S16 

Central, Bulfinch street .... 1823 

CATHOLIC. 
Churchof the Holy Cross, Franklin St. 1800 I St. Augustine's, South Boston - 
St. Mary's, Endicot street • - - 1835 | St. Patrick's, Northampton street 

MISCELLANEOUS. 



1834 
1836 
1837 

1830 
1836 



1817 
1836 



Second Christian Society, 
Free Caiv. Bapt. Tremont How, 
Meth. Epis. Zion Church, Parkman's Mar- 
ket, Cambridge street. 



Bethel, North Square 1829 

New Jerusalem, Phillip's place - • 1817 

Christian Society, Summer street, 

F. W. Baptist, Causeway street - • 1836 

Chapels of Ministers at large. 
Pitts street, Rev. Frederick T. Gray. 1 Butolph street, 

Warren street. Rev. Charles F. Barnard. | Suffolk street, Rev. John T. Sargent. 
Milton street, Rev. George W. Kilton. j Friend st. chap., Friend St., Wm. Howe 




Southern view of the State-house in Boston. 

The State-house is on an open square on Beacon street, fronting 
the malls and common. It is 173 feet in length and 61 in breadth, 
and its foundation is 110 feet above the level of the sea. Its size 
and elevation make it a ver^'' conspicuous object as Boston is ap- 
proached. It was constructed at an expense of 1^133,333. On the 
area of the lower hall stands the beautiful statue of Washington, 
by Chantry. '• F'rom the top of the dome on this building, which 
is 52 feet in diameter and 230 feet above the level of the harbor, 
the whole city appears beneath, with all its crooked streets, its ex- 
tended avenues, its splendid buildings, and the malls and common 
r)f 75 acres, crossed with romantic walks and shaded by centurian 
elms. On the north and west, the county of Middlesex presents 



BOSTON 



543 



its numerous villas, and a rich array of agricultural tasto and 
beauty. Here are viewed the hallowed walls of Harvard, and 
the sacred field of Bunker. On the south, the county of Norfolk 
appears with its granite hills and luxuriant vales, chequered with 
a thousand farm-houses and cottages and splendid mansions. On 
the east, the city, with its lofty spires, the harbor, and the ocean, 
all conspire to render this the most enchanting scene west of the 
Bay of Naples."^* 




Wester 11 view of Faiteuil Hall. 

Fanetiil Hall, of which the above is a representation, is three 
stories high, 100 feet by 80, and was the gift of Peter Faneuil, 
Esq. to the town, in 1742. The building was enlarged in 1806 to 
its present size. Before the new market was built, the lower part of 
it wa«: used for meat stalls; it is now improved for stores. The Hall 
is 76 feet square, 28 high, and has deep galleries on three sides. 
It is adorned with superb paintings of patriots, warriors, and states- 
men. A speech was pronounced in the hall on the 14th of 
March, 1763, by James Otis, Jr., Esq. He dedicated it to the 
cause of freedom, a cause in which he labored and suffered, and 
it has since received the appellation of The Cradle of Liberty. 

The following is an eastern view of Faneuil Hall Market, which 
is .535 feet in length, and 50 in breadth. The center part of the 
building, 74 feet by 55, projects two or three feet on the north and 
south, and rises 77 feet f^rom the ground to a beautiful dome. The 
wings are two stories in height, and the lower floors are exclusively 
appropriated as a meat, fish, and vegetable market. The upper 
story is one vast hall, arranged to be divided into compartments 
for ware-rooms and large sales. This building was completed in 
1827, and cost $150,000. 

* The author would here state that he is indebted principal!}' for the present descrip- 
tion of Boston to the New England Gazetteer, a valuable work, now on the eve of 
publication, by John Hayward, Esq. From the "Massachusetts Directory," another 
work of Mr. Hayward, much valuable information has been derived. 



544 



BOSTON. 




Side view of Quincy Market, Boston. 

The following is a view of probably the oldest building now stand- 
ing in Boston. It is situated at the corner of Ann street and the 
open square adjoining Faneuil Hall ; and is chiefly" remarkable for 
its age and antiquated form, showing what was considered ele- 
gance of architecture a century and a half since. The timber used 
in its construction is principally oak, and where it has been kept 
dry is perfectly sound and very hard. The outside is covered with 




Ancient Building, built in 1680. 



Franklin House. 



plastering, or what is usually called rough-cast. The figures 1680 
were impressed into the rough-cast to show the year of its erection, 
and are now legible. The building is 32 feet by 17, and two 
stories high. The tide-waters formerly flowed on the south and 
south-west sides of this building, but now so much land has been 
artificially made below it that it is now seventy rods to the near- 
est water of the harbor. The cut on the right is a representation 
of the old Franklin House, in Milk street, which stood nearly op- 
posite the south door of the Old South church. It is the house 
where the parents of Dr. Franklin resided for some time. This 
house was burnt in 1810. The drawing was taken a short time 
previous. 

In 1704, the first newspaper published in America appeared in 



BO 8T0N 



545 



Boston. It was printed on half a sheet of pot paper, with a small- 
pica type, folio, and was entitled, 

" N. E. Numb. 1. The Boston News-Letter. Published by Authority. From 
Monday, April 17, to Monday, April 24, 1704." 

" The jToprietor's name was John Campbell, a Scotchman, who was established 
here as a bookseller. The imprint is, ' Boston ; printed by B. Green. Sold by Nicho- 
las Boone, at his Shop near the Old Meeting-House.' Green was Campbell's printer, 
and Boone was for some weeks his publisher. 

" The first number contained the following prospectus : — ' This News-Letter is to be 
continued Weekly ; and all Persons who have any Houses, Lands, Tenements, Farmes, 
Ships, Vessels, Goods, Wares, or Merchandizes, &c. to be sold or Lett ; or Servants 
Runaway ; or Goods StoU or Lost, may have the same Inserted at a Reasonable Rate; 
from Twelve Pence to Five Shillings, and not to exceed ; Who may agree with Nicho- 
las Boone for the same at his shop, next door to Major Davis's, Apothecary, in Boston, 
near the old Meetinghouse. 

" ' All Persons in Town and Country may have said News-Letter Weekly upon rea- 
sonable tearms, agreeing with John Campbell, Post Master, for the same.' " 




City Hall, State Street. 

The above is an eastern view of the City Hall, and the build- 
ings in the vicinity, at the head of State street. This building was 
erected in 1714. It was burnt in 1747, and the interior was built 
entirely new. It was formerly called the Town-House, and has 
been occupied by the provincial and state legislatures. Since the 
new State-house has been built it has been called the old state- 
house. In 1S30, it received repairs and alterations which were to 
accommodate the post-office., the public reading-room, or hall, and 
the city officers. It is 112 feet long, and 36 broad. The post- 
office is at the western end, which fronts Washington street. The 
western, or Tipper part of State street, is called the Exchange, a 
place of resort for mercantile men to meet and transact their money 
affairs. Here are most of the banks in the city. State street, for- 
merly Ki7ig street, has been the scene of many memorable events ; 
of none more remarkable than the Boston Massacre., in 1770. 



546 B g T o . 

The presence of an insolent military force, sent over to overawe 
the inhabitants, Avas extremely irksome to a free people, and it 
could not be expected that harmony could long subsist between 
the inliabitants of Boston and the British troops. A slight affray 
took pkvce between them on the 2d of March, 1770 ; but on the 
night of the fifth, the enmity of the parties burst forth in violence 
and blood. The following account of this event is taken from a 
History of Boston, by Caleb H. Snow, M. D., published in Boston, 
by Mr. Abel Bowen, in 182.5. (This work is an octavo volume of 
400 pages, embellished with engravings, and contains a full and 
interesting history of Boston from its origin to the present time.) 

" The officers were apprehensive of difficulties, and were particularly active in their endeavors to gel all 
their men into tlieir barracks before night. Murray's Barracks, so called, where the Hih regiinent was 
principally ((iiartered, were in Brattle street, in the buildings directly opposite the little alley which leads 
from llie bottom of Market street. The 29th regiment was quartered in Water street and in Atkinson street. 
As a measure of precaution, there was a sentinel stationed in the alley before mentioned, (then called 
Boylston's alley.) ami this very circumstance led to thetiuarrel which terminated in the Boston Massacre. 
Tliree or fiiur young men, who were <lisposed to go through the alley, about nine o'clock, observed the sen- 
tinel brandishing his sword against the walls and striking lire fir his own amusement. They offered to 
pass him and were challenged, but persisted in their attempt, and one of them received a slight wound on 
his head. The bustle of this rencontre drew together all those who were passing by, and fifteen or twenty 
persons thronged the alley, and thirty or forty more, gathered in Dock Square, were attempting to force 
their wav to the barracks through Brattle street, (which was at that time so narrow that a carriage could 
with diiliculiy p;iss.) Being foiled iji this .attempt, the pirly, wliieh was continually increased by acces- 
sions, gathered iit Dock Square round a tall man with a red cloak and white wig, to whom they listened 
with close attention two or three minute.^, and then gave three cheers and huE7.aed for the main guard. 

" The main guard was regularly stationed near the head of State street, directly opposite the door on the 
south side of the town-house. To this place all the soldiers d.'tachi;d for guard duly were daily brought, 
and from thence inarched to the particular posts assigneil tbeni. On this clay the command of the guard 
had devolved on Capt. Thomas Preston, and Lieut. Basset under him. 

" A,s the party dispersed from Dock Scpiare. some ran ui) Cornhill, others up Wilson's lane, otliers up 
Royal Exchange lane, (now Exchange street.) These last found a single sentinel stationed before the 
door of the custom-house, which was tlie building now occupied by the tjnion Bank, and then made one 
corner of that lane, as the Royal E.vchange tavern did the other. As the sentinel was approached, he 
retreated to the step.^ of the hou.se, and alarmed tlie inmates by three or four powerful knocks at the door. 
Word was sent to Lieut. Basset that the sentinel was attacked by llie town's people. He immediately 
sent a message to his captain, who instantly repaired to the guard-house, where Lieut. Basset infiinned 
him that he had just sent a sorjeant and six men to assist the sentry at the custom-house. ' Well,' said 
the captain, ' I will follow them and see they do no mischief He overtook them l)efore they reached the 
cu.itom-housc, where they joined the sentinel and fjrmed a half circle round the steps. 

'• By this time the bells were set to ringing, and people llwked from all quarters, suppasing there waa 
fire. The soldiers were soon surrounded : many of those nearest to them were armed with cluta and 
crowded close upon them ; those at a disumce began to throw sticks of wood and snow-balls and pieces of 
ice at them, while from all sides they were challenged to Fire, fire, if you dare! At la.sl they thought 
they heard the order given, and they did fire in succession from right to left. Two or three of the guns 
n.xshed, but llie rest were fatal. Crispus Attucks, Samuel Gray, and James Caldwell were killed on the 
upot, Simuel Maverick and P.atrick Carr received mortal wounds, of which the former died the next morn- 
ing, and Carr on the Wednesday of the next week. .Several other persons were more or less injured: the 
greater part, persons passing by chance or quiet spectators of the scene. The p.^ople in.stantly retreated, 
leaving the three unhappy men on the ground. All this transpired within 20 minutes, from the time of 
Capt. I'reston's joiidng the guard. 

■' ' On the people's aasembling again,' says Capt. P., 'to take away the dead hodies, the soldiers, sup- 
posing them coming to attack tliem, were making ready to fire again— which I prevented by .striking up 
their "firelocks with my hand. Immediately after, a townsman came and told me that 4 or 5000 people 
were assembled in the jiext street, and had sworn to take my life, with every man's with me ; on which I 
judged it unsafe to remain there any longer, and therefore sent the party and sentry to the '««;« guard, 
where the street is narrow and short, then, telling them off into street firings, divided and planted them at 
each end of the street to secure their rear, expecting an attack, as there was a constant cry of the inhabil- 
ant."". "To arms, to arms, turn out with your guns !" and the town drums beating to arms. I ordered my 
drum to beat to arms, and being soon after joined by the several companies of the 29th regiment, I formed 
them, as the guard, into street firings. The 14th regiment also got under arms, but remained at their bar- 
racks. I immediately sent a Serjeant with a party to Col. Dalrymple, the commanding officer, to acquaint 
iiim with every particular. Several officers going to join their regiment were knocked down by the mob, 
one very much wounded and his sword taken from him. The lieutenant governor and Col. Carr soon 
after met at the head of the 29th regiment, and agreed that the regiment should retire to their barracks, and 
the people to their houses ; but Ikept the piquet to sirensthen the guard. It was with great difficulty 
that the lieiilenanl governor prevailed on the people to be quiet and retire : at la.st they all we.M off except 
about a hundred.' This hundred was compo.-ied of some of the most disiingiushed inhabitants, who vol- 
unteered to form a citizens' guard 

"A justice's court was forthwith held, and Capt. Pre.<!ton surrendered himself, and was committed to 
prison at three, the ne.vt morning; the eight soldiers al.so were committed early in the forenoon. 

" At eleven o'clock a town meeting was held. V^arious persons related to the assembly what they hart 
witne.s.sed of the events of the precedins d.iy. \ committee of fifteen was apjxiinted to wait on the lieu- 
tenant governor and Col. Dalrymple, and express to them the sentiment of the town, that it was impos- 
Bible for the soldiers and inhabitants to live in safety together, and their fervent prayer for the immediaia 
removal of lh« former. The answer received to this application waa not such as was wished; and in ih 



BOSTON. 547 

tltemoon, seven of the hrslcommiitce (viz. John Hancock, Samuel Adama, Wm. Molineux, Wm, Phillips, 
Joseph Warren, Joshua Henshaw, and Samuel Pemberton) were, a^ain deputed with the following message : 
' It is the unanimous opinion of this meeting, thai the reply made to a vote of the inhabitants presented 
his honor this morning is by no means salisfacury ; and that notliing less will satisfy them than a total 
and inunediate removal of the troops.' Samuel Adams acted its 'chairman of this delegation,' and dis- 
charged its duties with an ability commensurate to the occasion. Col, Dalrymple was by the side of 
Hutchin.son, who, at the head of the council, received them. He at first denied that he liad power to grant 
the request. Adams plainly, in few word.s, proved to him that he had the power by the charier. 
Hutchinson then consulted with Dalrymple in a whisper, the result of which wa.s, a rejjetition of the offer 
to remove one of the regiments, the 11th, which had had no part in the ma.s3acre. At that critical moment 
Adams showed the most admirable presence of mind. !>eeming not to represent, but to personify, the 
universal feeling, he stretched forth his arm, as if it were upheld by the strength of thou.sands and with 
anhesitating promptness and dignified firmness replied, ' Jf lhe_ lieutenant governor, or Col. Dalrymple, 
or both together, have authority to remcrr^e one regiment, tliey have authority to remove tiro ; ami 
nothing short of the total evacuation of the toic7i, by all the regular troops, ictll satisfy the public 
mind or prfsfrre the peate of the province.' The olficers, civil and military, were in reality abashed, 
before this plain committee of a democratic assembly. They knew the imminent danger that impended; 
the very air was filled with the breathings of compres-sed indignation. They .shrunk, fortunately shrunk, 
from all the arrogance which they had hitherto maintained. Their reliance on a standing army faltered 
before the undaunted, irresistible re.solution of free unarmed citizens. 

'• Hutchinson consulted the council, and they gave him their unqualified advice, that the troops should 
be sent out of the town. The commanding officer then pledged his word of lionor that the demand of tha 
town should be complied with, as six)n as practicable ; and both regiments were removed to the castle in 
less than fourteen days. 

" The funeral solemnities, which took place on Thursday, the 8th, brought together the greatest concourse 
that probably had ever assembled in America on one occasion. Attuck.s, who was a friendless mulatto, 
and Caldwell, who also was a stranger, wore borne from Faneuil Hall; Maverick, who was about 17 years 
old, from his mother's house in Union street, and Gray from his brotiier's in Royal E.vchange lane. The 
four hearses formed a junction in King street, and thence the procession m.irched, in columns of six deep, 
through the main street to the middle burial-ground, where the four victims were deposited in one grave." 

The following, respecting the "Boston Tea-party,-' is taken from 
the account given in Snow's History of Boston. 

' On the first of December, Capt. James Bruce, in the ship Eleanor, arrived with another portion of tha 
tea. On the 3d he was ordered to attend the next day on a committee of the people in Faneuil Hall, 
where he was commanded, by Samuel Adams and Jonathan Williams, assembled with John Rowe, John 
Hancock, Wm. Phillips, and John Pills. Escirs., and a great number of others, not to land any of the said 
tea, but to proceed to Griffin's wharf and there di.-^charge the re.^t of his cargo. Capt. Hcz. Coffin arrived 
in the brig Beaver near the same time, and was ordered to pursue the same course. 

'• It bein;; perceived that I\Ir. Rotch rather lingered in his preiiarations to return the Dartmouth to Lon- 
don, and the twenty days being nearly expired, after which the collector might .seize the ship and cargo, 
Mr. R. was summoned before the committee, and stated to them ihal it would prove his entire ruin if ha 
should comply with the re.solutions of the 29th and 3iith of Novemlier, and therefore he should not do it. 
A meeting of the people was assembled at the Old .South on Tuesday P. M., Dec. I4th, when Mr. R. 
appeared, and was enjoined forthwith to demand a clearance. It was ascertained thai one could not ba 
obtained till the next day, and therefore the meeting was adjourned lo Thursday, at the same place. 

" On Thursday, tbere was the fullest meeting ever known ; 2000 men, at least, were present from the 
country. Samuel Phillips .'^avage, Esq., of Weston, was appointed moderator. Mr. Kotch reported that 
the collector would not give him a clearance. He was then ordered upon his peril to get his ship ready 
for sea this day, enter a protest imnv.diutely again.st the custom-house, and proceed directly to tha 
governor, (then at Milion, 7 miles distant,) and demand a pass for his .ship to go by the castie. An 
adjournment to 3 P. M. tlien took place. At three having met, they waited very patiently till five o'clock, 
wiien, finding that Mr. Rotch did not return, they began to be very uneasy, called for a di.'^solution of tha 
meeting, and finally obtained a vote for it. But the more judicious, fearing what would be the conse- 
quences, begged for a reconsideration of that vote, 'for this reason, that they ouglit to do every thing in 
their power to send the tea hack, according to their resolves.' This touched the pride of the assembly, 
and they agreed to remain together one hour. 

"This interval was improved by Josiah Quincy, jr., to apprize his fellow-citizens of the importance of 
the crisis, and direct their attention to the probable result.s of this controversy. He succeeded in holding 
them in attentive silence till Mr. Rotch's return, at three quarters past five o'clock. The answer which 
he brought from the governor was, ' that, for the honor of the laws, and from dnty towards the king, he 
could not grant the permit, imtil the vessel wa.s regularly cleared.' A violent commotion immediately 
ensued. A per.son wno was hi the callery. disguised after the manner of the Indians, .-ihoiued at this junc- 
ture the cry of war ; it was answered by about thirty persons, disginsed in like manner, at the door. Tha 
meeting was dissolved in the twinkling of an eye. The multitude nished to GrilRn's wharf The dis- 
guised Indians went on board the ships laden with the tea. In le.ss than 2 hours, 210 chests and 100 half 
chests were slaved and emptied into the dock. The aflfair was conducted without any tumult; no damage 
Was done to the vessels or to ajiy oiher etlects whatever. 

"This was executed in the presence of several ships of war lying in Uie hartxir, and almost under the 
gims of the casllc, where there was a large body of troops at the command of tlie commi,s.<ioners. We are 
left to conjecture for the reasons why no opposition was made to this bold adventure. The names of the 
men who dared lo engage in it have never Ijeen made public. Three or four of them are yet living. 
Tiiey had the honor of a piirt in the act which brought the king and parliament to a decision that America 
must be subdued by force of arms." 

After the hattle of Bunker Hill, Boston was closely besieged by 
the American troops. No provision of any kind, for man or beast, 
was allowed to enter ; and the troops and inhabitants experienced 
much suffering : and while in this state the small-pox broke out, 

73 



548 BOSTON. 

and added to the general distress. The following account of 
the evacuation of the town is taken from Snow's History of 
Boston. 

" General Washington had taken command of the American forces, July 2d; and 
Gen. Gage had resigned the British to Gen. Howe, and sailed for England about the 
first of October. As the winter approached, the scarcity of fuel began to be sensibly 
felt. The old north meeting-house and above 100 other large wooden buildings were 
taken down and distributed for firewood. Some of the wharves also at the north end 
were broken up for the same purpose. The British officers found little to amuse them, 
except the occasional performance of a farce, in Faneuil Hall, where they themselves 
were the actors. Their soldiers had enjoyed a single day of mirth, in which they were 
employed in felling Liberty Tree and cutting it up for fuel. A squadron of cavalry, 
attached to the army, occasionally exhibited feats of horsemanship in that sanctuary 
of freedom, the Old South church, which was transformed into a riding-school. Hol- 
lis-street, Brattle-street, the West, and the First Baptist meeting-houses were occupied 
as hospitals or barracks for the troops. 

"Both parries were dissatisfied with so inactive a service. Washington 'had been 
some time contemplating an attack on Boston, as soon as he could be justified in 
attempting the execution of so bold a design. About the middle of February, 1775, the 
severe cold setting in, and the ice becoming sntficiently firm to bear the troops, he was 
disposed to make the attempt ; but a council of war, summoned on the occasion, being 
almost unanimous against the measure, he reluctantly abandoned it. 

" ' The effective regular force of the Americans now amounted to upwards of four- 
teen thousand men ; in addition to which the commander-in-chief called out about six 
thousand of the militia of Massachusetts. With these troops he determined to take 
possession of the heights of Dorchester, whence it would be in his power greatly to 
annoy the ships in the harbor and the soldiers in the town. By taking this position, 
from which the enemy would inevitably attempt to drive him, he expected to bring on 
a general action, during which he intended to cross over from Cambridge side with 
four thousand chosen men, and attack the town of Boston. To conceal his design, 
and to divert the attention of the garrison, a heavy bombardment of the town and lines 
of the enemy was begun on the evening of the 2d of March, and repeated the two 
succeeding nights. On the night of the 4th, immediately after the firing began, a con- 
siderable detachment, under the command of Gen. Thomas, passing from Koxbury, 
took silent possession of Dorchester heights. The ground was almost impenetrably 
hard, but the night was mild, and by laboring with great diligence their works were 
so far advanced by morning as to cover them in a great measure from the shot of the 
enemy. When the British after day-break discovered these works, which were mag- 
nified to the view by a hazy atmosphere, nothing could exceed their astonishment. No 
alternative now remained, but to abandon the town, or to dislodge the provincials. 
General Howe, with his usual spirit, chose the latter part of the alternative, and tofjk 
measures for the embarkation, on that very evening, of five regiments, with the light 
infantry and grenadiers, on the important but most hazardous service. The transports 
fell down in the evening towards the castle, with the troops, amounting to about two 
thousand men ; but a tremendous storm at night rendered the execution of the design 
absolutely impracticable. A council of war was called the next morning, and agreed 
to evacuate the town as soon as possible. A fortnight elapsed before that measure 
was effected. Meanwhile the Americans strengthened and extended their works ; and 
on the morning of the seventeenth of March the British discovered a breast-work, that 
had been thrown up in the night at Nook's Hill, on Dorchester peninsula, which per- 
fectly commanded Boston Neck and the south part of the town. Delay was no longer 
safe. By four in the morning, the king's troops, with those Americans who were 
attached to the royal cause, began to embark ; and before ten all of them were under 
sail. As the rear embarked, General Washington marched triumphantly into Boston, 
where he was joyfully received, as a deliverer.' " 

Cotton Mather, D. D., F. E. S., a celebrated minister and writer, was a native of 
Boston, born Feb. 12, 1663. He was distinguished for his early piety, and was ordain- 
ed colleague with his father, in 1684. He was a man of unequalled industry, vast 
learning, and expansive benevolence, also distinguished for his credulity, pedantry and 
want of judgment. No person in America had so large a library, or had read so 
many books, or retained so much of what he had read. So precious did he consider 
his time, that, to prevent visits of unnecessary length, he wrote over his study door " *« 
short.^' He understood Hebrew, Greek, Latin, Spanish, and Iroquois, and wrote in 



CHELSEA. 549 

Jhem all. By his diary, it appears that in one year he kept sixty fasts and twenty 
vigils, and published fourteen books, besides discharging the duties of his pastoral 
office. His publications amount in number to three hundred and eighty-two. His 
great work was his Magnolia Ckristi Americana, or ecclesiastical history of New Eng- 
land, from its founding to the year 1698. His style abounds with puerilities, puns, and 
strange conceits, and he makes a great display of learning. In his Magnalia he has 
saved numerous and important facts from oblivion. In the work are contained bio- 
graphical accounts of many of the first principal settlers. He died in 1728. 

f^O^-^ f^ct^fuA ^<-vZ^ Fac simile of the hand- 

g /^ ^^ writing of Cotton Mather; 

J y^^^trtr*") copied from a manuscript 



"Benjamin Franklin, LL. D., was born in Boston, Jan. 17th, 1706, and served an 
apprenticeship to the printing business. He showed a philosophic mind from his ear- 
liest years, and by the continual exercise of his genius prepared himself for those great 
discoveries in science which have associated his name with that of Newton, and for those 
political reflections which have placed him by the side of a Solon and a Lycurgus. 
Soon after his removal from Boston to Philadelphia, in concert with other young men, 
he established a small club, in which various subjects were discussed. This society 
has been the source of the most useful establisiimeiits in Pennsylvania calculated tc 
promote the cause of science, the mechanic arts, and the improvement of the human 
understanding. In 17.57, Franklin was sent an agent by his country to England ; in 
the year 1766, he was called to the bar of the house of commons, and underwent that 
famous interrogatory, which has raised his name in the political world. He was a 
member of the first congress, and a signer of the Declaration of Independence ; he was 
sent to France, where he effected important services to his country." His history is 
too well known to need an extended notice in this work. He died at Philadelphia, 
April 17th, 1790. 



CHELSEA. 



The ancient Indian name of Chelsea was Winnisemit. It was 
formerly a part of the town of Boston, and was called Romney 
Marsh; it was incorporated as a distinct town in 1738. The prin- 
cipal part of the town is broken into small hills. One eminence, 
called Poiader-hor/i Hill, is said to be 220 feet high ; it stands in 
the south quarter of the town, about four miles from Boston. The 
north-westerly strip (extending from the source of Chelsea creek 
three and a half miles) is mostly covered with woods. On the sea- 
shore and the borders of the creeks there are extensive and valua- 
ble salt marshes, from which large quantities of hay are yearly 
obtained. 

The following is a representation of the United States Marine Hos- 
pital, three miles from Boston. This building is constructed of 
stone, and was erected in 1827, for the accommodation of sick and 
disabled seamen. The hospital is under the immediate care of 
the collector of the ports of Boston and Charlestown. A physician 
and surgeon are appointed by the president of the United States. 
All the other officers are appointed by the collector, who is agent 
for the institution. The average number of patients yearly, for 22 
years preceding 1835, was 417. The most important branch of 



660 



■VTOROESTBB COUNTY, 




United States Marine Hospital, Chelsea. 

manufacturing business in the town is the making of bricks ; tho 
vahie of bricks manufactured in 1837 was $24,831 ; hands em- 
ployed, 46. Population, 1,659. 



WORCESTER COUNTY. 

This county was incorporated in 1731, and was the tenth coun- 
ty formed in the state. This is the largest county in Massachusetts. 
Its territory is larger than the whole state of Rhode Island, and its 
population greater than that of the state of Delaware. The county 
crosses the state, from New Hampshire on the north to Connec- 
ticut and Rhode Island on the south. It is sixty miles in length 
from north to south, and thirty-seven in width, from east to west. 
The surface of this county is rather undulating than very hilly. 
The soil is generally strong, and produces all kinds of grain, 
grasses, fruits, &c. common to its climate. Till within a few years 
almost all the people were farmers, and the great body still culti- 
vate the soil. For the last few years many of the inhabitants have 
been employed in manufactures, especially in the southern part of 
the county. Water privileges abound in almost every town. Its 
principal rivers are the Blackstone, Quinebaug, Nashua, Ware, 
Miller's, and Mill rivers. The only elevation in the county which 
can properly be called a mountain is Wachusett. The following 
is a list of the towns, which are 55 in number. 



Ashburnham, 

Athol, 

Auburn, 

Barre, 

Berlin, 

Bolton, 

Boylston, 

Brookfield, 



Charlton, 

Dana, 

Douglass, 

Dudley, 

Fitchburg, 

Gardner, 

Grafton, 

Hardwick, 



Harvard, 

Holden, 

Hubbardston, 

Lancaster, 

Leicester, 

Leominster, 

Lunenburg, 

Mendon, 



Millbury, 

Milford, 

New Braintree, 

Northborough, 

Northbridge, 

N. Brookfield, 

Oakham, 

Oxford, 



A T H L . 



651 



Paxton, 

Petersham, 

Phillipston, 

Princeton, 

Royalston, 

Rutland, 



Shrewsbury, 

Southborough, 

Southbridge, 

Spencer, 

Sterling, 

Sturbridge, 



Sutton, 

Templ-eton, 

Upton, 

Uxbridge, 

Warren, 

Webster, 



Westborough, 
West Boylston, 
Westminster, 
Winchendon, 
Worcester. 



In 1820, the population of the county was 73,635 ; in 1830, it 
was 84,365; in 1837, it was 96,551. 



ASHBURNHAM. 

This town was granted by the general court to Thomas Tiles- 
ton and others, for and in consideration of services done by officers 
and soldiers of the ancient town of Dorchester in the expedition 
to Canada, in 1690, under Capt. John AVithrington. This grant 
was formerly known by the name of ^'■Dorchester Canada^^^ but 
at its incorporation, in 1765, it was named Ashburnham. The 
Congregational church was gathered here in 1 760, and Rev. Jona- 
than Winchester was ordained their pastor. He died in 1767, and 
was succeeded Rev. John Gushing, D. D., in 1768. Dr. Cushing 
died in 1823, and was succeeded by Rev. George Perkins, in 1824. 
Rev. George Goodyear was installed the next pastor, in 1832. 
About the year 1782, the Shakers made a commencement in this 
town, but they have long since become extinct. 

This town lies upon the highlands between Connecticut and 
Merrimac rivers, so that part of its waters pass through Miller's 
river into the Connecticut, and part through Nashua river into the 
Merrimac. It is uneven in its surface, and contains several large 
ponds. Here are excellent farms and grazing lands, and the in- 
habitants are chiefly employed in agriculture. Leather has been 
extensively manufactured here, and a soap-stone company carry 
on their works in this town. In 1837, there were in this town 11 
manufactories of chairs and cabinet ware ; value of chairs and 
cabinet ware, .$37,390 12; hands employed, 115; six tanneries; 
value of leather tanned and curried, $23,509 03; there were 122,864 
palm-leaf hats manufactured, valued at $19,944. There was also 
1 cotton mill. There are three churches, 1 Congregationalist, 1 
Methodist, and 1 Baptist. Distance, 30 miles N. of Worcester, and 
60 N. W. of Boston. Population, 1,758. 



ATHOL. 

This town was granted to a company of 60 persons by the gene- 
ral court, previous to 1734, in which year, in June, the proprietors 
met at Concord, and, in presence of a committee of the general court, 
whereof the Hon. William Dudley was chairman, drew their house- 



552 



A T H OL 



lots in the township of Peyquage. This was the Indian name of 
the place, and it was known by this appellation until it was incor- 
porated, in 1762. 

This tract was a seat of the Indians, and at the time of its being granted was a fron- 
tier township, and greatly exposed ; and the settlement of the place was obstructed by 
the French and Indian war, which commenced in 1744, and continued several years. 
Previously to the breaking out of that war several families had seated themselves here, 
but, for fear of the Indians, they were obliged, as other infant plantations, to live in 
garrisons several years, and to labor at their various occupations with their military 
armor by them. It is believed, however, that only one person was ever killed by the 
Indians in the town. This was Mr. Ezekiel Wallingford, who, going alone at a dis- 
tance from his garrison, was discovered by the enemy ; and seeing them, he turned to 
run to the fort, but was stopped short by a fatal ball. This was in August, 1746. In 
April, the year following, a Mr. Jason Babcock was taken captive by the Indians and 
carried to Canada, from whence he returned in a few months. 

The first church was gathered here in 1750, and Rev. James 
Humphrey was ordained their pastor the same year. After con- 
tinuing with this church 31 years, at his request he was dismissed 




View in the central part of Athol. 

in 1782. He was succeeded, in 1787, by Rev. Jos. Eastabrook. Mr. 
Eastabrook died in 1830, and was succeeded by Rev. Josiah Moore, 
who resigned in 1832 ; the next minister was Rev. Linus H. Shaw, 
who was settled in 1834. The Orthodox church was organized in 
1830. The first minister. Rev. Baruch B. Beckwith, was settled 
in 1831 ; he was succeeded by Rev. James F. Warner, in 1835. 

The above is a north view in the central part of Athol. The vil- 
lage at this place consists of about 50 dwelling-houses, 4 mercan- 
tile stores, and a number of mechanic shops. This place is 32 miles 
from Worcester, 22 from Greenfield, 14 from Barre, 25 from Keene, 
N. H., 100 from Albany, N. Y., and 70 from Boston. 

The surface of this township is uneven, rocky, and somewhat 
hilly ; the soil is not as good as some, though there are many fine 
farms. The town has its full share of water. Miller's river is a 
considerable stream, has a rapid current, and affords great water 
privileges. This river received its name in consequence of a man 



B A R R E . 553 

being drowned in it, by the name of Miller, in attempting to pass 
it in his way to Northfield. The Indians called it Peyquage. It 
rmis westerly, and empties into Connecticut river. The second 
stream in size is " Tuliy's brook," or river, which flows into Mil- 
ler's river on the west side of the town. In this town are a cotton 
factory, paper-mill, a large scythe establishment, cupola furnace, 
door and sash factory, large cabinet works, turning mills, &c. There 
are six churches, 2 Congregational, 2 Methodist, I Baptist and I 
Universalist. Population, 1,603. In' 1837, there was 1 cotton 
mill, 1,024 5,pindles; cotton goods manufactured, 316,100 yards; 
hands employed, 10 males, 45 females. Boots manufactured, 
16,312 pairs; shoes, 38,333 pairs; value of boots and shoes, 
$58,741 ; males employed, 79 ; females, 37. 



AUBURN 



This town was formerly part of Worcester, Sutton, Leicester, 
and Oxford, incorporated a town by the name of Ward in 1778; 
so named in honor of Artemas Ward, the first major-general in 
the Revolutionary war, who died at Shrewsbury, Oct. 28, 1800. 
It received the name of Auburn in 1837. It was made a poll par- 
ish in 1773, and in 1776 the church was embodied, and the next 
year Rev. Isaac Bailey was ordained their pastor. 

This town is uneven, but the hills are not very high. The 
soil is in general fertile, and suited to both grazing and tillage. 
The town is, perhaps, as well watered by springs and perennial 
rivulets as any town in the county. The principal stream is 
French river. There are 4 small ponds ; the largest is situated 
about a mile south of the meeting-house. There is an outlet from 
this pond to the north, usually called Dark Brook, and an inlet at 
the south, while the pond is in its natural state ; but by an artifi- 
cial raising of the water about 4 feet, the current in the inlet is 
reversed, and the discharge of water is to the south. Two churches, 
1 Congregational and 1 Baptist. Distance, 5 miles S. by W. of 
Worcester, and 45 W. S. W. of Boston. Population, 1,183. In 
1837, there were in the town 1 woollen mill, 1 paper-mill, 1 card 
manufactory, 3 shingle mills, 1 lath mill, and 1 sash and blind 
factory. 



BARRE. 

This town was the north-west part of Rutland original grant. 
It was made a district in 1749, and called Rutland District, until 
it was incorporated a town in 1774; when the name of Barre was 
given to it, as a token of respect to Col. Barre, a worthy friend of 
America, at that time a member of the British house of commons. 
The Congregational church was gathered here in 1753, and Rev. 



654 



B A R R E 



Thomas Frlnk was installed their pastor. He was dismissed in 
1766, and was succeeded the next year by Rev. Josiah Dana. 
Mr. Dana died in 1801, and was succeeded by Rev. James 
Thompson in 1804. A Trinitarian society was formed here in 
1827. Their first pastor, Rev. John Storrs, was ordained in 1829. 
He was succeeded by Rev. Moses G. Grosvenor in 1832. The 
succeeding ministers were Rev. John F. Stone, installed in 1834, 
and Rev. Samuel A. Fay, in 1837. 




View in the caitrcd part of Bane. 



The above is a southern view in the central part of Barre, as 
seen from the Barre Hotel. The Unitarian church appears in the 
central part of the engraving ; a part of the town-house, recently 
erected, is seen on the right. Barre is a large, flourishing, and well- 
built village. A newspaper is published in the place. 

The land in this town is very hilly and inieven, but the soil is 
excellent, and it may be called one of the best townships of land in 
the county. It is watered by Ware river and branches. The pro- 
duct of this town in beef, pork, butter, and cheese, for the Boston 
market, is considerable. There are 6 churches, 2 Congregational, 
2 Methodist, 1 Baptist, and 1 Universalist. Distance, 21 miles N. 
by W. of Worcester, and 60 miles westward of Boston. Popula- 
tion, 2,713. In 1837, there was 1 cotton mill, 2,550 spmdles; 
cotton goods manufactured, 720,000 yards; valued at $57,600; 
males employed, 55 ; females, 20; two woollen mills; 35,000 yards 
of cloth were manufactured, valued at $104,000 ; males employed, 
40 ; females, 26 ; one powder-mill ; 100,000 lbs. of powder were 
manufactured. There were 607,000 palm-leaf hats manufactured ; 
value, $167,200; there were 5 carriage, 1 copper pump, 3 scythe. 
I tin, and 1 axe manufactories. 



BOLTON. 055 

BERLIN. 

This town was taken chiefly from Bolton, and a small part of it 
from Marlborough. It was made a parish by the general court in 
1778, and in 1784 was incorporated a district by the name of 
Berlin. Here a church was formed in 1779, and in 1781 Rev. 
Reuben Pufler, D. D., was ordained pastor; he died in 1829, and 
was succeeded by Rev. Robert P. Walcut, in 1830. The next 
pastor, Rev. David Lamson, was settled in 1834. The first minis- 
ter of the second church was Rev. Abram C. Baldwin, who was 
settled in 1830 ; his successors have been Rev. Michael Burdett 
and Rev. Eber S. Clark. 

The most valuable uplands in this town lie on several hills, 
which are excellent for grazing, and a suitable proportion of it for 
tillage. The range extends north into Bolton, and south into 
Northborough. There is one pond in the east part of the place, 
called Gates' Pond, 1 mile in length by half a mile in width, 
which abounds in fish. No brook empties into it, but at the south 
end there is a small outlet. The principal stream is called North 
Brook, and falls into the Assabet, at the S. E. corner of the town. 
There is a large sunken swamp lying mostly in the town, in some 
parts of which are large pine and spruce trees. This is entirely an 
agricultural town. Large quantities of hops are annually pro- 
duced here. There are 2 Congregational churches, 1 of which is 
Unitarian. Distance, 14 miles N. E. of Worcester, and 30 W. by 
N. of Boston. Population, 724. 



BOLTON 



This town was taken from the old town of I-ancaster, and was 
incorporated in 1738 by the general court, when it received its 
present name. It was originally pretty extensive, and contained 
most of the town of Berlin. The first church was gathered here 
m 1741, and Rev. Thomas Goss was ordained their pastor. He 
remained till his death, in 1780, and was succeeded by Rev. John 
Walley, who was dismissed from the society not long before his 
death, and was succeeded by Rev. Phineas Wright, ordained in 
1785. Rev. Isaac Allen succeeded Mr. Wright, in 1804. Rev. 
John W. Chickering, the first minister of the 2d society, was or- 
dained in 1830; he was succeeded by Rev. John S. Davenport, in 
1836. In this town and in Berlin there is a society of Friends, 
consisting of a large number of wealthy families. 

The engraving on the following page is a south-eastern view of 
the village in the central part of the town. 

The township is very good land, and there are many fine farms 
within its limits. The Bolton ridge of hills, known by the name 
of Wattoquottock^ lies in the west part of the town, and begins 
about half a mile from the center of the town. It rises to the 

74 



556 



B O YLS TON. 




Soath-easttr/i vkw of Bolton. 

height of between 2 and 300 feet above the level of Nashua river, 
and divides the streams which flow into the Nashua from those of 
the Assabet. In the north-easterly part of the town is situated 
the hill called Rattlesnake hill, which contains a large body of 
limestone, from which 15 or 20,000 bushels of lime, of the best 
quality, are prepared annually for the supply of the neighboring 
towns. In this town are two or three small ponds, not meriting a 
particular description. There are 2 Congregational meeting-houses, 
(one of them Unitarian,) one Baptist, and a Friends' meeting-house, 
in the south part of the town, near the line of Berlin. Distance, 
16 miles from Worcester, and 31 from Boston. Population, 1,185. 
In 1837, there were 5 comb manufactories; value of combs, $21,500; 
males employed, 20 ; females, 4. There were 100 pairs of boots, 
and 20,700 pairs of shoes, manufactured, valued at $6,250 ; males 
employed, 27; females, 13. 



BOYLSTON 



This town was included in the original grant of the township 
of Shrewsbury. It was made a parish by the legislature in 1742, 
and was called the north parish of Shrewsbury until 1786, when 
it was incorporated and made a distinct town by the name of j 
Boylston, in honor of an eminent family of that name in Boston, ' 
two of whom in succession were skilful physicians, and another 
founded a professorship of 'rhetoric and oratory in Harvard Uni- 
versity. The first church was organized in 1743, and Rev. Ebe- 
nezer Morse was ordained the first pastor. He was also an eminent 
and skilful physician. He continued with the people till 1775, 
when he was dismissed in consequence of his political sentiments 
regarding the controversy between England and America. The 



BROOKPIELD. 5S7 

second minister was Rer. Eleazer Fairbanks, ordained in 1777, and 
continued their pastor till 1793, when, at his request, he was dis- 
missed. The following ministers have been his successors : 
Hezekiah Hooper, Ward Cotton, Samuel Russell, William H. 
Sanford. 

The surface of this township is hilly, rough, and uneven. The 
land in general descends to the north and north-east. The soil is 
good, rich, and fertile. This is principally an agricultural town. 
Large quantities of beef, pork, grain, butter, and cheese are an- 
nually produced and exported. The town enjoys a fine healthy 
air, and the place has been noted for the longevity of its inhabit- 
ants. This town is watered by the south branch of the Nashua 
river, and a number of brooks and rivulets which flow into it. 
There are two small ponds, Rocky pond and Sewal's pond. Iron 
ore is found in this town. There are 3 churches, 2 Congregation- 
alist and 1 Universalist. Distance, 8 miles from Worcester, and 
45 west of Boston. Population, 821. In 1837 there were 1,300 
pairs of boots and 17,535 pairs of shoes manufactured ; value, 
^20,000; males employed, 34; females, 6. 



BROOKFIELD. 



This town was granted to a number of the inhabitants of 
Ispwich, in the county of Essex, by the general court, (upon 
their petition,) in May, 1660. The tract granted was to be six 
miles square. The grantees, that they might have a just right to 
the soil, purchased and took a deed of the natives. This place 
progressed so rapidly that, upon application to the general court, 
it was incorporated a town in 1673. 

The church was gathered, and the first minister, Rev. Thomas Cheney, was or 
dained here in 1717 ; he died in 1747, and was succeeded by Rev. EUsha Harding, 
who was ordained in 1749. The town increased so rapidly that in 1750 a second 
parish was incorporated in the northerly part of the town, now North BrooMeld. 
Mr. Harding continued the minister of the first precinct till his people fell into a con- 
troversy about a new meeting-house. The contention was so severe that the society 
parted, and the third parish was formed in 1754. The church was gathered in 1756, 
and in 1758 Rev. Nathan Fiske was ordained their pastor. He was succeeded by Rev. 
Micah Stone in 1801. Rev. Richard Woodruff succeeded Mr. Stone, in 1834. In 
consequence of this division of the first society i\Ir. Harding requested a dismission, 
which was granted in 1755. He was succeeded by Rev. Joseph Parsons, in 1757, who 
continued their pastor till his death, in 1771. In the autumn of the same year Rev. 
Ephraim Ward was ordained his successor. Mr. Ward died in 1818, and was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Eliakim Phelps. Rev. Jo.seph I. Foote, the next minister, was settled 
in 1826, and was succeeded by Rev. Francis Horton, in 1832. The Blethodist society 
was formed in the south parish in 1826. The Universalist society was incorporated in 
1812 ; their meeting-house was built in 1820. The Baptists held meetings in the west 
part of the town as early as 1748. 

Brookfield is a township of excellent land. The surface is 
somewhat uneven and stony, though there are a number of plains 
of considerable extent. There are large tracts of meadow and in- 
tervale upon Quabaog river, which runs in a westerly direction 
through the town. The ponds are the Quabaog or Podunk, the 
South pond, and the Wicabaug. The first-mentioned is about a 



658 



BROOKFIELD. 



mile square, the others are of smaller size. The Wicabuag pond 
aifords iron ore. Ore is also found in the bogs and marshes of the 
neighborhood. There are 6 churches, 3 Congregational, 1 Baptist, 
1 Methodist, and 1 Universal ist. South Brookjield is about two 
and a half miles from the central village ; it contains about 40 
dwelling-houses, some of which are elegant, and 2 churches. 
Population of the town, 2,514. Distance, 18 miles from Worces- 
ter, 28 from Springfield, 31 from Northampton, 10 from Hardwick, 
and 68 from Boston. In 1837 there were 17,244 pairs of boots 
and 182,400 pairs of shoes manufactured; value, .^190,697; males 
employed, 262; females, 215. There were 2 air and cupola furnaces. 




Congregational Church, Brookjield. 



The above is an eastern view of the First Congregational church 
in Brookfield, as it appeared previous to 1838. This edifice was 
raised in 1794, and completed the following year, and may be 
considered a good specimen of the architecture of that period. 
This church was remodelled during 1838, and now presents an 
entirely different appearance. The village in which this church 
is situated consists of about 60 dwelling-houses, built on the level 
plain northerly of Quaboag river. The village is neatly built, 
and has an air of quiet retirement. A printing-office is in this 
place, where the printing of books is carried on. 

The first meeting-house stood on Foster's Hill, about half a mile south-east of the 
present church. It was on the north side of the old road to the south parish, about 
equally distant from the house of Mr. Baxter Barnes and that of Mr. Tyler Marsh. 
The fortified house in which the inhabitants were besieged by the Indians in 1675 stood, 
it is believed, betM'een Mr. Tyler Marsh's house and barn, about one mile eastward 
of the present church : it was the place where the first principal settlement in the 
town was made. The inhabitants, after their return to this place, erected several tem- 
porary fortifications ; one of the principal was Gilbert's Fort, which stood near where 
the central school-house stands. On the hill north-west of this place, a tower was 
built for the purpose of enabling the inhabitants to watch the movements of the In- 
dians, and to obtain seasonable notice of their approach. It stood on an elevated rock. 
It is related chat early in the evening of a cloudy day, the sentinel discovered Indians 
lurking in the wood at only a small distance from him. By inadvertence a large por- 



BROOKFIELD. 659 

tiou of the guns which belonged to the fort had been left at the tower. The sentinel 
knew that if he gave the alarm the inhabitants would come for their guns, and thus 
be exposed to the Indians, who were ready to destroy theni. In this state of things he 
waited till it became quite dark. In the mean time he examined all the guns and pr** 
pared for an attack. At length he discharged a gun towards the place where he had 
seen the Indians. They returned his lire. As he was not exposed to injury from their 
muskets, he took a second piece, and whenever one of their guns was discharged he 
fired at the light occasioned by it. Thus, single-handed, he carried on for some hours 
a contest with them. At length the firing ceased. In the morning blood was found 
ill several places in the vicinity of the tower. Marks' Garrhon stood near the south- 
west end of Wickaboag pond, on a knoll below the junction of the waters of the pond 
with the Quaboag river. It is related that one day Mrs. Marks, being left alone, dis- 
covered hostile Indians near the garrison, waiting for an opportunity to attack the 
settlement. She immediately put on her husband's wig, hat, great-coat, and, taking 
his gun, went to the top of the fortification, and " marching backwards and forwards, 
vociferating, like a vigilant sentinel, ' All's well, all's well.' " This led the Indians to 
believe that they could not take the place by surprise, and they accordingly retired 
without doing any injury. 

This town was for a long time a solitary settlement, being situ- 
ated about half way between the old towns on Connecticut river 
and those on the east toward the Atlantic coast. The inhabitants 
suffered frequently and severely from, the incursions of the Indians, 
the following account of which is taken from Whitney's History 
of Worcester County. 

"The Nipnet or Nipmuck Indians having, on the 14th of July, 1675, killed four or 
five people at Mendon, the governor and council, in hopes of reclaiming them, sent 
Capt. Edward Hutchinson, of Boston, to Quaboag, Brookfield, near which place there 
was to be a great rendezvous of those Indians, to treat with several sachems, in order 
to the public peace ; and ordered Capt. Thomas Wheeler, of Concord, with a part of 
his troop, about twenty men, to accompany him for security and assistance. They 
arrived on the Lord's day, August the 1st, and sent a message to the Indians, desiring 
to treat with them. Three of the chief sachems promised to meet them next morn- 
ing about eight o'clock, August 2d, upon a plain at the head of Wickaboag pond, 
two or three miles west of the meeting-house. Captains Hutchinson and Wheeler, 
with their company, and three of the principal inhabitants of Brookfield, Capt. John 
Ayres, John Coye, and Joseph Pritchard, resorted thither at the appointed time, but 
found not the Indians there. They then rode forward about four or five miles towards 
the Nipnets' chief town. When they came to a place called Mominimisset, a narrow 
passage between a steep hill and a thick swamp, they were ambushed by two or three 
hundred Indians, who shot dowoi eight of the company, viz. Zechariah Phillips of 
Boston, Timothy Farley of Billerica, Edward Colburn of Chelmsford, Samuel Smedley 
of Concord, Sydrach Hapgood of Sudbury, and Capt. Ayres, John Coye and Joseph 
Pritchard of Brookfield, named above, and mortally wounded Capt. Hutchinson. 
The rest escaped through a bye-path to Brookfield. The Indians flocked into the 
town ; but the inhabitants, being alarmed, had all got together in the principal house, 
on an eminence a little to the south-east of where the west parish meeting-house now 
stands. They had the mortification to see all their dwelling-houses, about twenty, 
with all their barns and outhouses, burnt. The house where they had assembled was 
then surrounded, and a variety of attempts were made for two days and nights to set 
fire to it, but did not succeed. At length, August 4th, at evening, the Indians filled a 
cart with hemp and other combustible matter, which they kindled and endeavored to 
thrust to the house in order to fire it; but this attempt was defeated, partly by a shower 
of rain which fell and wet the materials, as Capt. Wheeler says in his narrative, who 
was on the spot, and partly by aid arriving ; for Major Willard, who had been sent 
after some other Indians westward of Lancaster and Groton, hearing of the distress 
of Brookfield when he was about four or five miles from Lancaster, altered his course, 
and the same night reached Brookfield, with Capt. Parker and 46 men, about an hour 
after it was dark, after a tedious march of 30 miles. And though the Indian scouts 
discovered him and fired their alarm guns, yet the main body, from their high joy, 
always accompanied with a horrid noise, heard them not. Willard joined the besieged, 
and the Indians immediately poured in all the shot they could, but \vithout execution, 
and then, burning all the buildings except this garrison, and destroying all the horses 
and cattle they could find, withdrew to their dens. They were not pursued, being much 
superior in number. 



660 EROOKFIKLD. 

" It IS fittins: to add to the above the very particular account which the Rev. Dr. Fiskff 
of Brookfield has given in a marginal note, annexed to an his-iorical discourse con- 
cerning the settlement of this town and its distresses during the Indian wars, preachea 
December 31st, 1775, and immediately published. The account is as follows, viz. 
' That three of the men killed in the ambushineiit belonged to Brookfield, as above 
named ; that Avhen the Indians pursued the party into the town, they set fire to all the 
buildings except a few in the neighborhood of the house in which the inhabitants had 
taken shelter ; that they endeavored to intercept live or six men who had gone to a 
neighboring house to secure some things there, but they all got safe to the place of 
refuge, except a young man, Samuel Pritchard, who was stopped short by a fatal bul- 
let ; that the house in which they were besieged was unfortified, except by a few logs 
hastily tumbled up on the outside, after the alarm, and by a few feather-beds hung up 
on the inside. And though the siege continued from Monday in the afternoon until 
early on Thursday morning, August 5th, in wliich time innumerable balls entered the 
house, only one man, Henry Young, who was in the chamber, was killed. The In- 
dians shot many fire-arrows to burn the house, but without effect. When the troop 
which relieved Brookfield got into the town, which was late at night, they were joined 
by great numbers of cattle, which had collected together in their fright at the confla- 
gration of the buildings and the firing and war-whoops of the Indians ; and for pro- 
tection these poor animals followed the troop till they arrived at the besieged house. 
The Indians, deceived hereby, and thinking there was a much larger number of horse- 
men than there really was, immediately set fire to the barn belonging to the besieged 
house, and to Joseph Pritchard's house and barn, and the meeting-house, which were 
the only buildings left unburnt, and went off. A garrison was maintained at this 
house till winter, when the court ordered the people away, soon after which the Indians 
came and burnt this house also.' 

" In the war which is commonly denominated Queen Anne's war, which broke nut not long after the 
re.seulemenl of the town, and continued several years. Brookfield, as well as many other towns, was trreatly 
harussed and annoyed, the Indians frequently making .sudden inroads, killin? and scalpinsr, or captivathig 
one and another of the inhabitants. Durins; this war, a number of men. women, and children were 
killed, several taken prisoners, and some were wounded. The particulars are as follow, as related by tl^ 
Rev. Dr. Fiske, in the sermon above referred to. ' The first mischief was in the latter end of July or 
beginnin? of August, 1692. A party of Indians came into the town and broke up two or three famijiee. 
Joseph Woolcol being at work at a little distance from his house, his wife, being fearful, took her childrea 
and went out to him. When they returned to the house at noon, they found the Indians had been there, 
for his gun and several other things were missing; and looking out at a window, he saw an Indian, at soma 
distance, coming towards the house. He immediately sent out his wife and his two little datighters to hide 
themselves in the bushes; and he, taking his liltle son under his arm and his broad axe in his hand, went 
out with his dosr in sight of the Indian. The dog, being Uu-ge and fierce, attacked the Indian so furiously, 
that he was obliged to discharge his gun at the dog to rid himself of him; immediately upon which Wool- 
col sat down the child and pursued the Indian till he heard the bullet roll down his gini.the Indian charg- 
ing as he ran ; he then turned b.ick, snatched up his child, and made his escape, through the swamps, to a 
fort. His wife, beinsr er-atly terrified, discovered by her shrieks where she was ; and the Indian soon 
found and dispatched both her and her children. Others of the j.-irty, about the same lime, came into the 
house of one ]\Ias.in while the family were at dinner. They killed Mason and one or two children, and 
took his wife, and an infant which they had wounded, and carried them off. They also took two brothers, 
Thomas and Daniel Lawrence; they soon dispatched Thomas, pretending he had misinformed them 
about the number of men which were in the town. John Lawrence, their brother, rode with all 
haste to Springfield I'or ;issistance. A company, under Capt. Colton, came wilh the greatest speed, and 
pursued the Indians. They found Mrs. Mason's child, which the savages had knocked on the head, and 
thrown away in the bu.shes: and contmuing their pursuit, they came upon the Imliaris' encampment, 
which was a sort of brush hedge, which they deridiiisly called " Englishmen's fort." The party waited till 
break of day, and then came so near as to put their guns through this brush and fire upon the Indians, 
fourteen or fifteen of whom were killed : the rest fled with such precipitation as to leave several of their 
arms, blankets, powilerhorns, &,c., and their pri-soners, Daniel Lawrence and Mrs. Mason, whom our men 
conducted back. This same John Lawrence, who rode express and procured tlie company which rescued 
the above-mentioned prisoners, was afierwanis goin?, in company with one Samuel Owen, in search of a 
man who was missing; the Ijidiaus came upon them, killed Lawrence, but Owen escaped. Mary Mac- 
Into.-h was fired ujion and killed a.s she wa.s milking her cows. Robert Grainger and John Clary were 
passing along the road, on a certain day, and being fired upon by the savages, Grainger was killed on the 
spot ; Clary attempted to escape, but had not fled far before he also was .sliot down. At another lime, 
"rhomas Bultis of Brookfield, riding express to Hadley. was killed in the wilderness, in a place now called 
Belchertown. Early one morning John Woolcol, a lad about twelve or fiurteen years old, was riding in 
search of the cows, when the Indians fired at hini, killed his horse from under him, and took him prisoner. 
The people at Jennings' garrison hearing the firing, and concluding the people at another garrison were 
beset, six men set out for their assistance, but were waylaid by the Indians. The English saw not their 
danger till ihey saw there was no escaping it; and therefore, knowing that an Indian could not look an 
Englishman in the face and take a right aim, they stood their ground, presenting their pieces wherever 
they saw an Indian, without discharging them, excepting Ahijah Banlet. who turned to flee and was shot 
dead. The Indians kept firing at the rest and wounded tliree of tliem. Joseph Jennings in two places , one 
ball grazed the top of his head, by which he was struck blind for a moment; another ball passed through 
his shoulder, wounding his collar tone; yet by neither did he fall, nor was he mortally wotmded. Benja- 
min Jem^ings was wounded in the leg, and John Green in the wrist. They were preserved at last by the 
following stratagem. A large dog, hearing the filing, came to our men ; one of whom, to cncouraga his 
brethren and intimidate the Indians, called out, " Capt. Williams is come to our assistance, for here is his 
iog." The Indians, seeing the dog, and knowing Williams to be a famous warrior, immediately fled, aiid 



CHARLTOIS 



661 



flur men escaped. John Woolcot, the lari above nicntinned, was carried to Canada, where he remained alx 
or seven years, during which lime, by conversing wholly with Indians, he not only lost his native language, 
but became so naturalized to the savages, as to bo unwilling, for a while, to return to his native country. 
Some years afterwards, viz. in Blarch, 1728, in a time of peace, he and another man having been hunting, 
and coming down Connecticut river with a freight of skins and fur, they were hailed by some Indians, but, 
not being willing to go to them, they steered far another shore. The Indians landed at a little distance 
from them ; several shots were e.xchanged, at length Woolcot wa.'? killed. 

" 'The la.st mischief which was done by the .•savages, in Brookfield, w;is about the 20th of July, 1710. 
Six men, viz. Ebenezer Hayward, John White, Stephen and Benjamin Jennings, John Grosvenor and 
Joseph Kellog, were niaking'hay in tlie meadows, when the Indians,'who had been watching an opportu- 
nity to surprise them, sprung suddenly upon them, dispatched live of them, and took: the other, John 
White, prisoner. White, spying a small company of our people at some distance, jumped from the Indian 
who held him, and ran to join liTs friends; but the Indian lired after him, and wounded him in the thigh, 
by which he fell ; but soon recovering and running again, he was again tired at, and received his death 
wound.' " 



CHARLTON. 

This toAvn originally belonged to Oxford, of which it formed the 
western part. It was incorporated in 1754. The lands of this 
township were at first thought of very little value, being rough 
and hard of cultivation, and settlement at first proceeded slowly. 




Nurth-easttrn vitw uj the ctntrid part of LharlloTU 

However, in 1761 the place was so well settled that a church was 
organized, and Rev. Caleb Curtiss ordained pastor. He was 
dismissed in 1776. After an interval of six years, in 1783, Rev. 
Archibald Campbell was installed over the church, and continued 
pastor till 1793, when he was dismissed. The following ministers 
have been his successors: Erastus Larned. settled in 1796; Edw'd 
Whipple, 1804; John Wilder, 1827; William H. Whittemore, 
1833 ; and Isaac R. Barbour, settled in 1836. 

The above is a north-eastern view of the central part of Charl- 
ton, showing the Universalist and Congregationalist churches, and 
some other buildings in the vicinity. The village consists of about 
15 dwelling-houses, on an elevated situation. Charlton is now a 
large agricultural town, of a strong soil, well watered by springs 
and small streams, which are some of the head waters of the 



669 DOUGLASS. 

Quinebaug. In this town are 4 churches, 3 Congregational, 1 
UniversaUst, and 1 Baptist. Distance, 14 miles from Worcester, 
42 to Hartford, (Conn.) and 53 south-west of Boston. Population^ 
2,469. In 1837 there was 1 cotton mill; 656 spindles; cotton 
thread manufactured, 16,563 pounds ; value, $10,000; males em- 
ployed, 4 ; females, 10. There were 15,500 pairs of shoes manu- 
factured ; value, $13,700; males employed, 27; females. 18. 



DANA. 

This township was composed of a part of Greenwich, in Hamp- 
shire county, of the north part of Hardwick, and the south-east 
part of Petersham. It was incorporated a town in 1801, and is 
one of the smallest towns in territory and population in the county. 
A Congregational church was embodied about 1824, but no minis- 
ter of this denomination has yet been settled. Ministers of other 
denominations have occasionally preached in the town. Popula- 
tion, 660. Distance, 30 miles north-west of Worcester, and 70 
from Boston. In 1837 there were 70,000 palm-leaf hats manufac- 
tured in this town; value, $10,500. 



DOUGLASS. 



This town was granted about 1700, and began to be settled in 
1722. The first settlers came from Sherburne, in the county of 
Middlesex, from which circumstance it was called Neiv Sherbiume 
until its incorporation in the year 1746, when it received the name 
of Douglass, to perpetuate the name and deeds of Dr. William 
Douglass of Boston, originally from Scotland, an eminent physician, 
and author of a history of New England, in 2 vols. 8vo., a propri- 
etor and considerable benefactor. The church was gathered here 
in 1747, and Rev. William Phipps was ordained their first pastor. 
He was dismissed in 1765, and was succeeded by Rev. Isaac Stone, 
who was ordained in 1771. Mr. Stone died in 1837. His succes- 
sor was Rev. David Holman, who was ordained in 1808. The 
second Congregational church was organized in 1834, and Rev. 
John Boardmau was installed pastor in 1835. 

The general face of this town is uneven — hills and vales inter- 
spersed. Rivulets and springs abound, and the people reap great 
advantages by turning and spreading the water over their lands at 
their pleasure. There are some excellent interval lands on Mum- 
ford river, which passes the north part of the town, and empties 
into the Blackstone in Uxbridge. There are three small ponds 
lying in different parts of the town. On the west side of a hill a 
little north of the meeting-house, at the bottom, near a swamp, the 
Indians in former times had their wigwams and a fort, the remains 
of which are still visible, and their tools are yet found in the fields. 



DUDLEY. 



563 



There are 6 churches, 2 Congregational, 2 Methodist, I Baptist, 
and 1 for Friends. Population, 1,713. Distance, 18 miles from 
Worcester, and 47 from Boston. In 1837 there were 2 cotton 
mills, 4,000 spindles; 1,000.000 of cotton goods were manufactured; 
value, |.55,000 ; males employed, 65 ; females, 7'^. There were 2 
axe manufactories ; 121,400 axes and hatchets were manufactured; 
value, $116,400; hands employed, 79. 



DUDLEY. 

This to\vnship was originally granted to the Hon. Messrs. Paul 
and William Dudley of Roxbury, while yet in the possession of the 
aborigines, the tribe which was known by the name of the Pegan 
tribe. It was incorporated by the general court in 1731, and the 




Eastern view of the central part of Dudley. 



name of Dudley was given to it as a token of respect to the above- 
mentioned men, who were principal proprietors of the soil, and 
great benefactors to the first settlers in their infancy. The church 
was founded here in 1732, and the Rev. Perley Howe was ordained 
their first minister in 1735. He was dismissed in 1743, and the 
next year Rev. Charles Gleason was ordained, who continued the 
faithful minister till his death, in 1790. The Rev. Joshua Johnson 
was installed as successor to Mr. Gleason in 1790. His successors 
have been Rev. Abiel Williams, ordained in 1799, and Rev. James 
H. Francis, in 1831. 

The central part of Dudley is situated on a commanding emi- 
nence, called Dudley Hill. The village consists of two churches, 
an academy, and about twenty-five dAvelling-houses. The view 
above, shows the appearance of the place as seen from a point about 
half a'mile eastward, on the road to Webster. The Congregational 
church is seen in the central part of the engraving, before which 
is seen the road ascending the hill, which here descends with con- 

75 



564 DUDLEY. 

siderable abruptness. The Universalist cimrch and the academy 
stand south from the Congregational church. Merino village is 
about 2 miles eastward. Four acres of land on the summit ot 
this hill were given to the town for public uses by the Pegan tribe 
of Indians, on condition that all of their tribe who should ever 
inhabit the town should have the right to convenient seats in the 
meeting-house. The face of the town is uneven, but not moun- 
tainous. It is beautifully interspersed with hills, valleys and 
streams of water. The soil is generally good and fertile. There 
are quarries of gneiss in this town, which yield great quanti- 
ties of excellent building stone. There are 4 large ponds, the 
largest of which is in the east part of the town, called by the In- 
dians Chau-ban-a-gung-a-maug. French and Quinebaug rivers, 
both considerable streams, pass in a southerly course through this 
town. There are 3 churches, 1 Congregational, 1 Universalist, 
and I Methodist. Popidation, 1,415. Distance, 18 miles from 
Worcester, 6 from Southbridge, 45 from Hartford, (Conn.,) and 
about 60 from Boston. In 1837 there were 3 woollen mills, II 
sets of machinery; 196,653 yards of cloth were manufactured; 
value, !$319, 991; males employed, 101 ; females, 98. There were 
27,740 pairs of slioes manufactured ; value, $22,698 ; males em- 
ployed, 26; females, 18. 

The following, respecting the Indians who lived in this town, is 
from Gookin's Collections. 

"About five miles distant from hence [Oxford] is a second toAvn, called Chabana- 
kongkomun. It hath its denomination from a very great pond, about five or six miles 
long, that borders upon the southward of it. This villa2;e is fifty-five miles south-west 
from Boston. There are about nine families and forty-iive souls. The people are of 
sober deportment, and better instructed in the worship of God than any of the new 
praying towns. Their teacher's name is Joseph, who is one of the church of Hassan- 
amessit ; a sober, pious, and ingenious person, and speaks English well, and is well 
read in the scriptures. He was the first that settled this town, and got the people to 
him about two years since. It is a new plantation, and is well accommodated with 
uplands and meadows. At this place dwells an Indian called Black James, who about 
a year since was constituted constable of all the praying towns. He is a person that 
hath approved himself diligent and courageous, faithful and zealous to suppress sin ; 
and so he was confirmed in his office another year. Mr. Eliot preached unto this peo- 
ple, and we prayed and sung psalms with them, and we exhorted them to stand fast in 
the faiih. A part of one night we spent in discoursing with them, and resolving a 
variety of questions propounded by them, touching matters of religion and civil order. 
The teacher Joseph and the constable James went with us unto the next town, which 
is called Maanexit, is a third village, and lieth about seven miles westerly from Cha- 
banakongkomun. It is situated in a very fertile country, and near unto a fresh river, 
upon the west of it, called Mohegan river. It is distant from Boston about sixty miles 
west and by south. The inhabitants are about twenty famiUes, as we com.pute one 
hundred souls. Mr. Eliot preached unto this people out of the 24th Psalm, seven to 
the end : Lift up your heads, ye gates ; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors j 
and the King of glory shall come in, 4cc. 

" After sermon was ended we presented unto theni John Moqua, a pious and sober 
person there present, for their minister, which they thankfully accepted. Then their 
teacher named and set and rehearsed a suitable psalm, which being sung, and a con- 
clusion with prayer, they were exhorted, both the teacher to be diligent and faithful, 
and to take care of the flock, whereof the Holy Ghost had made him overseer, and the 
people also to give obedience and subjection to him in the Lord." 



FITCHBURG. 565 

FITCHBURG. 

This town was originally a part of the town of Lunenburg, and 
wholly included in the grant made to the proprietors of Turkey 
Hill. It was incorporated a town in 1764. A part of Fitchburg, 
to the north, was cut off in the year 1767, to aid in forming the 
town of Ashby. What the Indian name given to this territory 
was, is not known ; but the first name applied to it by white men 
was Turkey Hills, so called on account of the great number of 
wild turkeys which frequented the place for their favorite food of 
chesnuts and acorns there abounding. 

When the order or grant of the general court passed, in 1719, there was but one 
family residing in the territory of Turkey Hills. The head of this family was Samuel 
Page, universally designated by the honorable title of " old Governor Page." When 
the general court's committee (as they were styled) first visited the place, in Dec. 
1719, in the performance of their duty, they found Governor Page, whose faithful sub- 
jects were composed of his wife Martha and several promising children, oocupying a 
comfortable habitation on the southerly side of Clark's Hill, a few rods to the rear of 
the barn belonging to the farm of Micah Marshall. It is directly opposite to the prin- 
cipal grave-yard, little more than one mile in a south-easterly direction from the meet- 
ing-house. Old Governor Page exercised not a little taste in the selection of his placa 
of abode. He had, however, no title to the land which he was cultivating, for it was 
then public domain, and belonged to his majesty's province of the Massachusetts Bay. 
David Page was undoubtedly among the earliest, perhaps the first, of the settlers ia 
Fitchburg. The birth of his eldest child is dated Oct., 1735. Some of the aged peo- 
ple of this town think that the first settlement was on the place now owned by James 
L. Haynes, and that the occupant was sometimes called Governor Page. Others say 
that David Page lived there, but from how early a period they cannot tell. As to the 
residence of old Governor Page near the center of Lunenburg, there can be but little 
doubt ; for the land on which the first pound was built was purchased of him, and the 
governor him.self was elevated to the office of pound-keeper. Tiie house occupied by 
one Page, near James L. Haynes', was "garrisoned," that is, sticks of timber, hewn on 
two sides to the thickness of six inches, were firmly driven into the ground so neai" 
together as to touch. They extended around the house at the distance of about ten 
feet from it. Port-holes were made through this of sufficient dimensions to alkw the 
fire of musketry. 

The condition of the highways, in the early history of the town, can hardly be ulia- 
gined at the present time. For the most part they were merely "bridle paths," wind- 
ing through the woods, over one hill after another, increasing the distance double to 
what it is at the present time. Wheel carriages had not then been introduced. Tra- 
velling was performed on horseback. In order that people might not lose their direc 
tion, trees were marked on one side of the path. A few roads, which would soon prove 
the destruction of one of our modern carriages, were laid out at an early season near 
to the center of the town ; but in that part of the town which is now Fitchburg there 
was nothing of the kind till, in 1743, a committee was chosen " to lay out and mark a 
way to the west line of the town, in order to answer the request of the Hon. Thomas 
Berry, Esq. in behalf of Ipswich Canada, ( Winchendon,) and to accommodate Dorches- 
ter Canada, (Ashburnham,) and the new towns above us." The two most important 
roads, which led from this part of the town to the center, were the one by David Page's, 
(J. L. Haynes',) and corresponding nearly with what is now denominated the old road, 
and the one by David Goodridge's, who lived in the place now occupied by W. Bemis, 
near the brick factory, at South Fitchburg. What little communication there was be- 
tween Lunenburg and " the new towns above," was principally made through the 
road by David Page's, already mentioned. This road, probably, passed the village of 
Fitchburg, nearly in the same place with the present travelled way. It then wound up 
the hill, by Enoch Caldwell's, over flat rock, through the land lately owmed by Sylva- 
nus Lapham, and thence to what was then Lunenburg west fine, and into Dorchester 
Canada. John Scott had been for a long time desirous of a more direct route to the 
center of Lunenburg ; but the town would not accede to his wishes. He accordingly 
procured a court's committee, who laid the present Scott road, " to the jireat satisfac 



666 



FITCH BURG. 



tion of Mr. John Scott," as the records say. This road passed from the middle of Lu- 
nenburg by the log house where John Battles, Jr., now lives; then by Ebenezer 
Bridge's, -vvhere Deacon Jaquitt now resides, and then by Scott's own house, and so 
en to the road before mentioned. This Scott road was for some years quite a celebrated 
thoroughfare, and used to be called Cronm Point road. David Goodridge, at quite an 
early period, commenced on his farm at South Fiichburg. His house was near to the 
spot now occupied by William Bemis. In the year 1745 or 6, one Amos Kimball, and 
his cousin Ephraim, moved from Bradford into this town. The house occupied by 
Samuel Hale was built by Amos, and the house on the Stony farm was built by Eph- 
raim. Soon after their settlement they built a grist-mill, with one run of stones, on the 
place where the stone factory now stands. The dam was only about forty feet in 
length, made of a log laid across the river, having spoilings driven in above it. 

For several years previous to the incorporation of the town, says Mr. Torrey,* " the 
inhabitants of the westerl)'' part of Lunenburg began to have shrewd suspicions that 
they were able to walk alone— that they were sufficient in knowledge and numbers to 
manage their own affairs — and that it w.as an unnecessary burden upon them to be 
compelled to travel the distance of five or ten miles to attend divine service, and 
transact the ordinar}' business of town affairs. It will be seen, upon an inspection of 
the case, that there was a pretty good foundation for these opinions. 

By an examinaiion of the records, it will be seen that a very fair proportion of those who were selected 
to maiiaire the most important affairs of the town, wa.s talcen from amon^ those afterwards belonging to 
Fitchburg. It ought, furthermore, to he considered that a ride often miles then was quite a dilTerent affair 
from a ride of that distance now. Of the roads at that period mention has already been made. They were 
but little better than cow-paths. Wlien this town was incorporated, there were no wheel carriages here of 
a higher raidi than ox carts. Any vehicle of lighter construction would have soon gone to destruction over 
Bueh roads. Journeys were then made on horseback, or on foot. A spruce young gentleman, in treating 
the mistress of his affectioixs to a ride, or the solier-minded husband, in carrying the partner of his life to 
church, brings the sure-paced animal to the horse-block, and mounts, the lady places herself on the pillion 
behind him. Tlte horse starts off on a walk — the greatest speed at which it would he considered safe to 
drive him, through roads so rougii. They thus pursue their journey, winding along up one hill and then 
another. The horse leaps over the smaller streams, for fear of wetting his feet, and wades boldly through 
the larger ones, even to endangering the feet of Ids riders. Now the gentleman dismounts "to let down" 
the bars, and then proceeds along, dodging under the boughs, twigs, and liml)s of trees. He must start 
very early, or arrive at his journey's end very late. It is, therefore, not to be wondered at, that the early 
settlers of this town began, so early as they did, to desire a separation from the parent stock, that they 
might be nearer in the performance of their public duties, whether they were such as they owed to the 
community or to their .Maker, The long-sought- for object of the people of the westerly part of Lunenburg 
having been obtained, a committee, consisting of Rlessrs. John Fitch, Amos Kimball, Samuel Hunt, Eph- 
raim Whitney, and Jonathan Wood, was chosen to procure the act oif incorporation ; wliich was obtained 
in Feb. 1764. At this time the whole number of inhabitant.s did not exceed 250. 

The following individuals and their families composed the population of Fitchburg 
at the time it was incorporated : 



Ephraim Kimball, 
Solomon Steward, 
Samuel Poole, 
Kendall Bontelle, 
Nehemiah Fuller, 
Ephraim Osborne, 
Hezekiah Ilodgkins. 
Isaac Gibson, f 
AVm. Chadwick, 
Nicholas Dan forth, 
Ephraim Whitne)^, 



Wm. Henderson, 
Jonathan Wood, 
Samuel Hodgkins, 
Sam.uel Pierce, 
Phineas Steward, 
James Poole, 
Francis Fullam, 
James Leach, 
Abraham Smith, 
Charles Willard, 
Isaiah Witt, 



Thomas Gerry, 
Joseph Spafford, 
Timothy Bancroft, 
Samuel Hunt, 
David Goodridge, 
Samuel Walker, 
William Steward, 
Kobert Wares, 
Silas Snow, 
Edward Scott, 
Ebenezer Bridge, 



Ezra Whitney, 
Reuben Gibson, 
John White, 
Jesse French, 
Samuel Hunt, 
Thomas Dutton, 
Timothy Parker, 
Jonathan Holt, 
Phineas Goodell, 
Amos Kimball. 



* The author is almost entirely indebted for the history of this town to the History 
of the Town of Fitchburg, by Mr. Piufus E. Torrey, a pamphlet of upwards of 100 oc- 
tavo pages, printed and published at Fitchburg, in 1836. 

t"The per.sonal prowess of these Gibsons was quite proverbial. On one occasion Isaac Gibson, in his 
ramliles oa Pearl hill, found a bear's cub, which he immediately seized as his legitimate prize. The mother 
of the cub came to the rescue of her offspring. Gibson retreated, and the bear attacked him in the rear, to 
the manifest detriment of his pantaloons. This finally compelled him to face his unwelcome antagonist, 
and they closed in a more than fraternal eml)race. Gibson, being the more skilful wrestler of the two, 
' threw' Bruin, and they came to the ground together. Without relinquishing the hug, both man and 
beast now rolled over each other to a considerable distance down the hill, receiving sundry bruises by the 
way. When they reached the bottom, l>Hh were willing to relinquish the contest without any further ex- 
perience of each other's prowess. It was a draw game, the bear losing her cub and GitMon his panut- 
•oona." — Torrey' s History. 



FITCHBURG 



)07 




Southern view of Fitchburg. 



The above is a southern view in the central ])art of Fitchbnrg. 
The village, which is large and flourishing, lies in a narrow valley 
on the north-eastern bank of a branch of the Nashua river. There 
are 8 mercantile and 2 book stores, a printing-oflice, where a 
newspaper is published, tAvo large hotels, a bank, " The Fitchburg 
Bank," which was incorporated in 1832, witli a capital of $100,000. 
This place is 24 miles from Worcester, 30 from Lowell, and 47 
from Boston. The general surface of the town is extremely un- 
even, consisting almost entirely of hills, some of which are very 
abrupt, and of considerable magnitude. Rollstone, a hill lying 
immediately south-west of the village, rises abruptly 300 feet above 
the bed of the stream which flows at its base; and there are other 
summits which rise still higher. The soil when properly subdued 
.produces heavy crops, and abounds with excellent pasturage lands. 
Population, 2,662. There are 5 churches, 2 Congregational, (1 of 
which is Unitarian,) 2 Baptist, and 1 Methodist. In 1837, there 
were 4 cotton mills, 3,880 spindles; 699,700 yards of cotton goods 
were manufactured ; value, $62,700 ; males employed, 27 ; females, 
62 ; there were 3 woollen mills, 10 sets of machinery ; 294,500 
yards of cloth were manufactured; value, $274,.500 ; males em- 
ployed, 88 ; females, 64. Two paper-mills ; 175 tons of stock were 
manufactured ; value of paper, $20,000 ; two scythe manufacto- 
ries; 31,200 scythes were manufactured ; value, $23,000. 

The first church in Fitchburg was formed in 1764, and Eev. John Payson was or- 
dained pastor. Kev. Samuel Worcester, his successor, was ordained in 1797, and con- 
tinued here about five years, Avhen he resigned, and was installed pastor of a church in 
Salem. Dr. Worcester entered zealously into the cause of missions. He died at Brai- 
nerd, a missionary station among the Cherokees, June 7th, 1821. The successor of 
Dr. Worcester was Rev. Titus T. Barton, who was installed pastor in 1804 ; he was 
succeeded by Rev. William Bascom, in 1805. Rev. William Eaton, the next minister, 
was ordained in 1815. Rev. Rufus A. Putnam, the successor of Mr. Eaton, was or- 
dained in 1824, and was succeeded by Rev. John A. Albro, who was installed in 1832. 
Ilev. Joshua Emery, the next pastor, was ordained in 1835. Rev. Calvin Lincoln was 



568 GRAFTON. 

ordained pastor of the Second Society in 1824. The Village Baptist society was formed 
in 1831 ; their meeting-house was built in 1833. Rev. Appleton Morse, Rev. John 
W. McDonald, and Rev. 0. L. Lovell, have been the ministers of this society. The 
Methodist society was formed in 183 1 ; Rev. Joel Knight was their first minister. " The 
first Baptist society of Fitchburg and Ashby" was incorporated in 1810. They have 
a kind of meeting-house in the north part of the town. 



GARDNER. 



This town was taken from Westminster, Templeton, Winchen- 
don, and Ashbnrnham, a corner from each. It was incorporated 
and made a distinct town in 1785, and named Gardner, to perpet- 
uate the memory of Col. Thomas Gardner, of Cambridge, who fell 
in the battle of Bunker Hill. The church was gathered here in 
1786, and the Rev. John Osgood was ordained pastor in 1791. 
He died in 1821, and was the pastor, teacher, and physician for his 
people nearly 30 years. Rev. Sumner Lincoln, his successor, was 
ordained in 1824. Rev. Jonathan Farr was ordained over the Uni- 
tarian society in 1829, and was succeeded by Rev. Curtis Cutler 
in 1833. 

The surface of this town is uneven, abounding in small hills 
and valleys, and though the land is somewhat rocky, it is strong 
and fertile. It is peculiarly adapted to grass and pasturage, being 
naturally moist, and abounding in springs and rivulets. The 
largest stream is Otter river, which flows into Miller's river in 
Winchendon. There are two ponds in this town, which have 
small streams running from them. Upon the various water-courses 
is considerable good meadow-land. There are 3 churches, 2 Con- 
gregational and 1 Baptist. Population, 1,276. Distance, 20 miles 
from Worcester, and 54 from Boston. In 1837, there were 25 
manufactories of chairs and cabinet ware ; the value of articles 
manufactured was $109,064 ; hands employed, 350. There were 
60,450 palm-leaf hats manufactured : value, $8,125. 



GRAFTON 



This town is composed of a tract of land, 4 miles square, which 
was reserved for the Indians when the town of Sutton was granted 
for settlement. It was called by the Indians Has-sa-na-mis-co, 
and was known by that name till it was incorporated by the gene- 
ral court, in 1735, and named Grafton. 

As the Indians diminished, the white people became proprietors, in 1728, of the soil 
by purchase, for the consideration of £2,500, and the grant was made on condition 
" that they should provide preaching and schooling, and seats in the meeting-house for 
the remaining Indians." The general court, from the first, appointed a committee of 
three to superintend and take care of the Indian property, both personal and real. But 
this committee have little or nothing to do at present, as the Indians are nearly gone. 
" In 1765, there were 14 Indians in town. This number gradually diminished, but it 
was not till about the year 1825 that the last of the Nipmucks ceased to exist. They 



GRAFTON. 



569 



received the yearly income from their funds in the month of May, at which time thsy 
usually had a joyous holiday. Blankets, psalters, and psalm-books were distributed 
among them, as well as money. In 1830, there were 14 of a mixed Indian and negro 
race, which yet hold some of the Indian lands, and receive the benefits of the small 
remaining fund." 

The Congregational church was formed in this town in 1731, 
of which Rev. Solomon Prentice was ordained first pastor. He 
was dismissed in 1747, and was succeeded by Kev. Aaron Hutch- 
inson, ordained in 1750. He continued with the people till 1772, 
when he was dismissed. Rev. Daniel Grosvenor was ordained 
the next pastor, in 1774. By reason of ill health, he was dis- 
missed in 1788. Rev. John Miles, the next pastor, was ordained in 
1796, and was succeeded by Rev. Moses E. Searle. in 1826 ; Rev. 
John Wilde, the next minister, was ordained in 1832. 




!iouth-iustfm vi'/v oj Of cutt/al part of Grafton. 

The above engraving shows the appearance of Grafton, as it is 
seen about half a mile distant, on the Providence road. The vil- 
lage stands on a commanding eminence, Avitli an extensive pros- 
pect to the westward. The spire seen on the left is that of the 
Congregational (Orthodox) church ; the next is the Baptist ; that 
on the right is the Unitarian. The surface of this town is hilly 
and uneven, and in general rocky ; but the soil is good and pro- 
ductive. The Blackstone river and canal pass through the south- 
west corner of the town, and one of the principal tributary streams 
to that river flows through the west part of Grafton, and by a fall 
of more than 50 feet supplies unfailing water-power to extensive 
works for the manufacture of cotton and woollen goods. There 
are 5 churches, 2 Congregational, 2 Baptist, and 1 Methodist. 
Population, 2,910. Distance from Worcester, 8 miles, and 36 from 
Boston. In 1837, there were 5 cotton mills, 14,054 spindles; 
2,053,320 yards of cotton goods were manufactured ; value, 
$278,014; males employed, 134; females, 226; one woollen mill, 
4 sets of machinery; 70,000 yards of cloth were manufactured; 
value, $120,000; males employed, 34; females, 25. There were 



570 GRAFTON. 

18,672 pairs of boots, 671,538 pairs of shoes, manufactured; value., 
$614,141; males employed, 906; females, 486. 

The following account is taken from Mr. Brigham's Centennial 
Address, delivered April 29, 1835. 

" This town is a portion of a large territory, formerly called the Nipmuck country. The 
limits of this country were not very well defined, but probably included all the south- 
ern part of the county of Worcester, a few of the adjoining towns in the state of Con- 
necticut, and westward to the Connecticut river. Like most of New England when 
first visited by the English, its population was very sparse. It had been wasted away 
by pestilence, or by the fatal incursions of the fierce and warlike Maquas. Its inhabit- 
ants possessed a milder and less warlike character than most of the neighboring tribes, 
and were accordingly brought into subjection to them. What was the nature of this 
subjection, or in what relation they stood to these tribes, it is now difficult to state with 
much accuracy. It is known, however, that they paid them tribute ; and perhaps this, 
in time of peace, was the only acknowledgment of servitude required. The first 
mention made of this country is by Gov. Winthrop, who, with a number of others, 
made an excursion up Charles river in January, 1632. After they had gone up about 
fifteen miles, he says they ascended a very high rock, ' where they might see all over 
Neipnett, and a very high hill due west.' No white man probably ever set foot on ita 
soil till the autumn of 1635, when it was traversed by a company of Enghsh, consist- 
ing of sixty persons, who, thinking themselves straitened for land about Massachusetts 
bay, had determined thus early to emigrate to the more fertile banks of the Connecti- 
cut. What portion of the Nipmuck country they crossed, is not known ; but as their 
destined point was at Wethersfield, is it improbable that they crossed this town, and 
that here, two hundred years ago, that small company of emigrants, under the broad 
canopy of heaven, invoked the blessing of God on theii" arduous enterprise ? 

"No other notice ia taken of the Nipniucks or their country, until the Ijenevolenl project of converting 
the Indians to Clirislianity was undertaken. This was in 161G. Stron? hopes were tlien entertained of its 
success. Among lliose wlto were willing to devote their lime, wealth, and talents to this cause, none were 
more conspicuous than John Eliot, known in his own day as tlie apostle to the Indians. He commenced 
hi.s henevolent labors among the Indians at Natick, with whom the Nipmucks had a friendly and constant 
intercourse, and by that means they were probably first induced to attend his preacliiag. In an account 
of his siicce.ss, written to tlte corporation of London, in 1649, he says, ' that a Nipnet sachem hath submit- 
ted himself to the Lord, and much desires one of our chief ones to live with him and those tliat are with 
him.' In another account, written in 1651, he .say.s, 'there is a great country lying l)etvveen Connectarott 
and the Massachusetts, called Nipnet, where there be many Indians dispersed, many of whom have sent 
to our Indians, desiring that some may be sent unto theiii to teach them to pray to God.' Soon after this, 
Kliot probably came to this tovvn: for, in 16.")4, he had met with such success, tlial the giMieral court, on 
his petition, set it apart for the use of the Indians. The design of this was, as appears from Eliot's petition, 
to prevent any conflicting claims between tlie Engli.sh and Indians, and to preserve to the latter the quiet and 
midislurbed enjoyment of lands which they and their fathers had held from time immemorial, but over 
which the state claimed jurisdiction. From that time, for a number of years. Eliot frequently visited this 
town, and made such progress in his benevolent labors, that, in 1671, he formed an Indian church here, tlie 
second of the kind in Massachusetts. 

"No Indian town gave stronger assurances of success than this, at that time. Has- 
.sanamesitl, as it was then called, had become the central point of civilization and 
Christianity to the whole Nipmuck country. A .school was here established, where the 
Bible was read and studied in the Indian language. Young men were there educated 
and sent into the neighboring towns to preach the gospel. A regular government was 
created, and the forms of law strictly observed. The population of the town was small, 
yet, by reason of their constant intercourse with their neighbors, a large number of the 
natives enjoyed the benefits of this school, and before the year 1674, seven new towns 
of 'praying Indians,' as they were termed, were formed in this neighborhood, most of 
which were furnished with teachers from this place. The chief ruler of the whole 
Nipmuck country, Wattascompannm, had his residence here, and from this place issued 
his orders and decrees to his subjects. A writer of that day calls him ' a grave and 
pious man,' and, from some examples given of the exerci.se of his authority, there is no 
doubt that he administered his government with efliciency, if not with-liberahty. 

" In 1G74, Eliot, with another devoted friend to the Indians, BTajor Daniel Gookin, again visited all tha 
'praying Indians' of the Nipmuck country, the la'tter of whom wrote an account of them. He describes 
this town wiih much greater particularity than Hubbard, who called it ' a place up into the woods beyond 
Medfield and Mendon.' Gookin says, ' the name, Ha.ssanamesitt, sigidficth a place ofsmaU stones. It lieth 
alx)ut thirty-eight miles from Boston, west-southerly, and is about two miles ea.stward of Nipmuck river, 
and near unto the old road way to Connecticut. It hath not atmve twelve families ; and so, according to 
our computation, about si.tty souls; but is capable to receive some hundreds, as generally the other villages 
are, if it -shall please God to multiply them. The dimensions of this town is four miles square, and so 
about eight thousand acres of land. This village is not inferior unto any of the Indian plantations for rich 
land and plenty of meadow, being well tempered and watered. It produceth plenty of corn, grain, a&d 



HARVARD. 671 

ftull ; Ibr there are seVcfal good orchards in this place. It is an apt place for keeping of cattle and swine ; 
in which respect this people are the best stored of any Indian town of tlieir size. Tlieir ruler is named 
Anaweakin ; 3 sober and discreet man. Their teacher's name, is TackiippawiUin, his brother; a pious and 
hble man, and apt 10 teach. Their a!;ed father, whose name I remember not, is a grave and sober Chris- 
tian, and deacon of the church. They have a brother, that lives in the town, called James, that was bred 
among the English, and employed as a pressman in printing the Indian Bible, who can read well, and as 
I take it write also. The father, mollier, brothers, and their wives, are all reputed pious persons. Hera 
ihey have a meeting-house for the worship of God after the English fashion of building, and two or three 
Other hou.MS after the .same mode, but tliey fancy not greatly to live in them. Their way of living is by 
husbandry, and keeping cattle and swine: wherein they do as well or rather better than any other Indians, 
but are yet very far short of the English both in diligence and providence. There are in full connnunion 
in the church and living in town about sixteen men and women, and about thirty baptized persons ; hut 
there are several others, members of this church, that live in other places. This is a hopeful planta- 
tion,' " 



HARDWICK. 

This town was purchased in 1686 of John Magus and Nasso- 
wanno, two noted Indians, for the sum of £20, New England 
currency, and a deed taken by Messrs. Joshua Lamb, Nathaniel 
Page, Andrew Gardner, Benjamin Garnbhn, Benjamin Tucker, 
John Curtiss, Richard Draper, and Samuel Ruggles, of Roxbury. 
The heirs of these persons upon petition obtained a grant of the 
tract from the general court in 1732. It was cahed Lambstown, 
from the first-named proprietor, until it was incorporated in 1738, 
when it was named Hard wick. The first church was gathered 
here in 1736, and Rev. Daniel White ordained their first pastor. 
He remained with the people till liis death, in 1784. He was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Thomas Holt, in 1789. Rev. Wm. B. Wesson, the 
next pastor, was ordained in 1805, and was succeeded by Rev. 
Martyn Tupper in 1828; Rev. Edward J. Fuller was installed the 
pastor in 1835. Rev. John M. Merrick, the parish minister, was 
ordained in 1828, and was succeeded by Rev. John Goldsbury, 
who was installed in 1832. 

The surface of this town is rather rough, hilly, and uneven, but 
the soil is good, suitable for grazing land and orchards. Ware 
river runs on the east and south of the town, and has some valua- 
ble interval land. There are 4 churches, 2 Congregational, 1 Bap- 
tist, and 1 Universalist. Population, 1,818. Distance, 24 miles 
from Worcester, and 64 from Boston. In 1837, there were 75,000 
palm-leaf hats manufactured ; value, ^15,500; there were 5,000 
pairs of boots and 5,000 of shoes manufactured ; value, 1^14,500; 
males employed, 20 ; females, 8 ; there were 2 paper-mills ; value 
of paper made, $5,600. 



HARVARD 



This town was taken from Lancaster, Stow, and Groton, princi- 
pally from the two former. It was incorporated in 1732, and 
named Harvard, in memory of Rev. John Harvard, founder of 
Harvard College. At that time it contained about 50 families. 

The first church was formed in 1733, and Rev. John Seccomb was ordained. He 
continued with the people till 1757, when he was dismissed, and succeeded by Rev. 

76 



572 H L D E N . 

Joseph Wheeler, ordained in 1759. He was dismissed in 17(38, and the next year Re7. 
Daniel Johnson was ordained. He died in 1777, and in 1782 Rev. Ebenezer Grosve* 
nor was installed pastor. In 1788, lie died ; and Rev. William Emerson succeeded 
him in the pastoral office, in 1792. Rev. Stephen Bemis, the next pastor, was ordained 
in 1801 ; he was succeeded by Rev. Warren Fay, D. D., who was installed in 1814. 
Dr. Fay was succeeded by Rev. Ira H. T. Blanchard, in 1823, and by Rev. Washing- 
ton Gilbert, in 1831. Rev. George Fisher was ordained pastor of the second church 
in 1821. The Baptist society in this town was ibrined in 1778, when Elder Isaac P-ir 
ker (also a physician) was ordained their pastor. 

Harvard is a hilly, uneven townsliip. bnt the soil is productive. 
There are about l.UOO acres of interval land in the town, though, 
perhaps, half of it may more properly be denominated meadow. 
This town is well watered by springs and rivulets, which mostly 
run into the Nashua river, which flows along on the west side of 
the township. There are 3 ponds in the town, and also 3 hills, 
which de.scrve a passing notice. The first, Pin Hill, so called from 
its pyramidical form, rises to the height of nearly 200 feet. In this 
hill are valuable quarries of slate. The other two are Bear hill 
and Oak hill. In the last-mentioned hill a shaft was sunk, about 
1783, for the purpose of finding silver ore. From the color of the 
earth in this place, and from the working of the mmeral rod, it 
was believed that the precious metal might be obtained not far 
beneath the surface. But this, like many other excavations made 
at that day for a similar purpose, rests a deserted monument of 
successless toil. In this town are 2 Congregational meeting-houses, 
(one of them Unitarian,) and a Baptist meeting-house in the west- 
ern part. There is also a society of Shakers in the north-eastern 
part of the town, where they have a neat village and a tract of 
finely cultivated and productive lands. Population, 1,566. Dis- 
tance, 22 miles from Worcester, and 30 from Boston. In 1837, 
there were 3 paper-mills; value of paper manufactured, $12,750. 



HOLDEN 



This town was taken wholly from the town of Worcester, being 
mcluded in their original grants, and was the north-westerly part 
thereof It was incorporated in 1740, by the name of Holden, in 
commemoration of the Hon. Samuel Holden, Esq., one of the 
directors of the Bank of England, who was a generous benefactor 
to the literary and rehgious interests of the country. This worthy 
man transmitted to New England for charitable purposes, in books 
and bills of exchange, to the amount of £4,847, New England 
currency. After his decease, his widow and daughters sent over 
in value, for the same noble and pious uses, the sum of £5,585. 
With part of this latter sum Holden Chapel, in the University of 
Cambridge, Mass., was erected, in the year 1745. 

The first church was organized in 1742, and Rev. Joseph Davis 
was ordained their pastor. He was dismissed in 1772, and suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Joseph Avery. Rev. Horatio Bardwell, the next 



HUBBARDSTON, 



673 



pastor, was installed in 1823, and was succeeded by Rev. William 
B. Paine, in 1834. 




Public Buildings in the central part of Holden. 

This town is hilly and uneven, but not very broken. The soil 
is various, but generally of a loamy kind. Quinepoxet river passes 
through the town. In the south-east part of the town is Stone- 
House Hill, whose steep and rocky sides were once famous for 
rattlesnakes. There is 1 Congregational meeting-house, and I 
Baptist. Distance, 7 miles from Worcester, and 48 west of Boston. 
Population, 1,789. In 1837, there were 4 cotton mills, 5,800 spin- 
dles; 1,023,000 yards of cotton goods were manufactured; value, 
^84,000 ; males employed, 68 ; females, 66. There were 2 woollen 
mills, 4 sets of machinery ; 92,000 yards of cloth were manufac- 
tured ; value, ,^81,000. One cotton mill for the manufacture of 
warp, batting, and wicking. Boots manufactured, .5,800 pairs ; 
shoes, 10,000 pairs ; value, §20,500. 



HUBBARDSTON. 



This was called "the north-east quarter of Rutland," being 
wholly included in the original grant of that town, and was incor- 
porated in 1767, and called Hubbardston, to perpetuate the name 
and memory of Hon. Thomas Hubbard, Esq., of Boston, who was 
a large proprietor of lands in this place. The first church was 
formed here in 1770, and Rev. Nehemiah Parker was ordained 
pastor. He was succeeded by Rev. David Kendall in 1802, and 
by Rev. Samuel Gay in 1810. Rev. Abner D. .Tones was ordained 
pastor of the parish church in 1828, and was succeeded by Rev. 
Ebenezer Robinson in 1833. 

Hubbardston is an extensive township, situated on the elevated 
lands between Connecticut river and the ocean. The ridge rises 
here to the height of more than 1,000 feet above the Connecticut, 
and sends to Ware river several considerable tributary streams. 
There are three ponds in this town, known by the names of Great 
and Little As-na-con-com-ick and Nat tic ponds. 



574 



LANCASTER 




South-eastern view of Hubbardston. 

The above is a south-eastern view in the central part of Hub- 
bardston, showing the two hotels, and some other buildings in the 
vicinity. The village, which consists of two churches and about 
50 dwelling-houses, has a flourishing appearance. 

It is stated in Whitney's History of Worcester " that for a con- 
siderable way around Little As-na-con-com-ick pond there is every 
appearance that once a stone wall was built or building. In some 
places it was then two and a half feet in height, in others entirely 
thrown down. When, by whom, and for what purpose this wall 
was built, will probably ever remain a mystery." In the village 
are two Congregational churches, 1 of which is Unitarian. Dis- 
tance, 17 miles from Worcester, 7 from Barre and Princeton, and 
53 W. of Boston. Population, 1,780. In 1837, there Avere 5,300 
pairs of boots and 1,100 pairs of shoes manufactured; value, 
$14,562. Value of chairs and cabinet ware manufactured, $5,941. 
There were 35,122 palm-leaf hats manufactured; value, $5,405. 



LANCASTER. 

The settlement of this town goes far back into the early his- 
tory of Massachusetts. According to Winthrop, the plantation of 
Nashaway was undertaken in 1643. The whole territory around 
was in subjection to Sholan or Shmimay^ sachem of the Nasha- 
ways, and whose residence was at Waushacum^ now Sterling, 
Sholan occasionally visited Watertown for the purpose of trading 
with Mr. Thomas King-, avIio resided there. He recommended 
Nashawogg to King as a place well suited for a plantation, and 
invited the English to come and dwell near him. Accordingly 
King, unit(!d with a number of others, purchased the land of Sho- 
lan, and procured a deed for 10 miles in length and 8 in breadth, 
stipulating that the English should not molest the Indians in their 



LANCASTER. 675 

hunting, fishing, or planting places. This deed was confirmed by 
the general court. 

The precise time of the removal to Lancaster is not known. The first building was 
a " trucking house," erected by Symonds and King, about a mile south-west of the 
church. Mr. King sold all his interest in this grant to his associates, who, having 
given lots of land to Richard Linton, Lawrence Waters and John Ball, sent them up 
to make preparation for the general coming of the proprietors, and these were the first 
inhabitants. Others by the name of Prescott, Atherton, and Sawyer, soon followed. 
For the space of seven years little was done to forward the settlement of the plantation ; 
nevertheless, there being nine families in the place, they petitioned the general court 
to be incorporated as a town, which was granted on the 18th of May, 1653, (O. S.) 
by the name of Lancaster. The first town meeting on record was held in the summer 
of 1654, probably soon after the petition just mentioned was granted. At the next 
meeting it was voted not to take into the town above 35 families, and the names of 
25 individuals are signed who are to be considered as townsmen. They are as 
follows, viz. 

Edward Breek, John Whitcomb, Thomas James, John Smith, 

Mr. Jos. Rowlandson, John Whitcomb, jr. Edmund Parker, Lawrence Waters, 

John Prescott, Richard Linton, James Atherton, John White, 

William Kerley, sen. John Johnson, Henry Kerley, John Farrar, 

Ralph Houghton, John Moore, Richard Smith, Jacob Farrar, 

Thomas Sawyer, Wm.and John Lewis, William Kerley, jr. John Rugg. 

Many of these names still abound in Lancaster and the vicinity. 
In 1659 the town repealed the impolitic order limiting the settlers 
to 35, and after this the population rapidly increased. The aifairs 
of the town appear to have proceeded in tolerable quiet for more 
than 20 years from the first settlement, till 1674. The Indians 
were inclined to peace, and in various ways were of service to the 
inhabitants. But this happy state of things was not destined to 
continue. The day of deep and long-continued distress was at 
hand. The natives, with whom they had lived on terms of mutual 
good will, became their bitter enemies ; desolation was to spread 
over the fair inheritance; fire and the tomahawk, torture and death, 
were soon to be busy in destroying all the comforts of domestic 
life. On the 22d of August, 1675, eight persons were killed in 
different parts of Lancaster. On the 10th (O. S.) of February fol- 
lowing, early in the morning, the Wampanoags, led by Philip, 
accompanied by the Narragansetts, his allies, and also by the Nip- 
mucks and the Nashaways, whom his artful eloquence had 
persuaded to join with him, made a desperate attack upon Lancas- 
ter. His forces consisted of 1,500 men, who assaulted the town in 
five distinct bodies and places. There were at that time more 
than fifty families in Lancaster. After killing a number of persons 
in different parts of the town, and burning a number of houses, 
they directed their course to the house of Mr. Rowlandson, the 
minister of the place. This house at the time was occupied by 
soldiers and inhabitants to the number of 42, and was defended 
with determined bravery for upwards of two hours. The enemy, 
after a number of unsuccessful attempts to set fire to the building, 
succeeded by pushing a cart filled with combustible materials 
against it in the rear. In this way the house was soon enveloped 
in flame, and to avoid perishing in the ruins the inhabitants were 
compelled to surrender. Only one man escaped. The rest, twelve 
in number, were either killed on the spot or reserved for torture. 



576 LANCASTER. 

Different accounts vary in the number of the slain and captives. At least here 
were fifty persons, and one account says fifty-five. Nearly half of these suffered death. 
No less than seventeen of Rev. Mr. Rowiandson's family and connexions were put 
to death or taken prisoners. He at the time, with Capt. Kerley, was at Boston, solicit- 
ing military aid from Gov. Leverett and the council. The anguish they felt at their 
return is not to be described. The Indians made great plunder in various parts of the 
town. They were forced, however, to retreat on the appearance of Capt. Wadsworth, 
■who, hearing of the distressed situation of the people, immediately marched from Marl- 
borough, where he was stationed, with forty men. He quartered his soldiers in various 
parts of the town, and remained there some time ; but before his departure one of his 
men was killed by the Indians. But the alarm of the inhabitants was so great, and 
such was the general insecurity of the border towns, that when the troops withdrew, 
about six weeks afterwards, tlxe rest of the inhabitants left, under their protection. 
Immediately after this desertion of the place all the buildings were reduced to ashes 
but two. For more than three years after this, Lancaster remained without an inha- 
bitant. During this time Mr. Rowlandson preached in Wethersfield, Conn., and there 
he died before the resettlement of the town. His vv'ife and two of his children were 
restored to him after three months' captivity. Most of the women and children taken 
at this incursion of the Indians returned. From 1680 to 1692 the inhabitants were 
not molested in the resettlement of the town. But upon the breaking out of King 
AVilliam's war, the colonies were again involved in a war with the Canadians, both 
French and Indians, in the calamities of which this town had a large share. On the 
18th of July, (0. S.) 1692, a party of the Indians attacked the house of Peter Joslyn, 
and murdered his wife and three children, and a widow Whitcomb. Elizabeth How, 
his wife's sister, was taken captive, but afterwards returned. Another child of his 
was killed by the enemy in the wilderness. At the time of the assault, .Toslyn was at 
work in the field. In 1695, on a Sunday morning, Mr. Abraham Wheeler was shot 
by the enemy lying in ambush. No further injury was done till 1(J97, when they 
entered the town under five leaders, with an intention to commence their attack upon 
Thomas Sawyer's garrison. It was by the merest accident that they were deterred from 
their plan. The gates of Sawyer's garrison were open. A Mr. Jacob Fairbanks, who 
lived at half a mile's distance, mounted his horse, which came running to him much 
frightened, and rode rapidly to the garrison, though without suspicion, for the purpose 
of taking his son who was there. The enemy, supposing ihey were discovered, being 
just ready to rush into the garrison, relinquished their design, and on retreating fired 
upon the inhabitants at work in the fields. At no time, however, excepting when the 
town was destroyed, was there so much injury done, or so many lives lost. They met 
the minister. Rev. John Whiting, at a distance from his garrison, and offered him 
quarter, which he rejected with boldness, and fought to the last against the cruel foe. 
After this they killed twenty others, wounded two, who afterwards recovered, and took 
six captives, five of whom in the end returned to Lancaster. The restoration of peace 
in Europe brought a short season of repose. In 1702, war between England and 
France was renewed, and again reached the colonies. In 1704, 700 French and Indians 
proceeded against Northampton, but finding the inhabitants prepared for an attack, 
they turned their course toward Lancaster, except 200 of them, who for some reason 
returned. On the 31st of July they commenced a sudden and violent attack in the 
morning, in the west part of the town, and killed Lieut. Nathaniel Wilder near the 
gate of his own garrison. Near the same place in the course of the day they killed 
three other persons. The inhabitants were much inferior to the French and Ind'ians in 
number. Capt. Tyng at this time happened to be in Lancaster with a party of soldiiers ; 
and Capt. How gathered in haste what men he was able, and marched with them 
from Marlborough to the relief of the town. They fought with bravery, but the large 
number of the enemy tbrced the inhabitants to retreat into garrison. Upon this the 
enemy burnt the meeting-house and six other buildings, and destro3''ed much of the 
live stock of the town. Betbre night such numbers came to the relief of the town, 
that the enemy retreated, and with such success that they were not overtaken by our 
soldiers. What number of the enemy was killed at this time is uncertain, but it was 
supposed to be considerable. A French officer of some distinction was mortally 
wounded, which greatly exasperated them. 

"On the 26th of October, the s:iine year, 1704, a party of the enemy having been 
discovered at Still river, the soldiers and inhabitants belonging to Mr. Gardiner's gar- 
rison, with divers others, went in quest of them, and returned in the evening, much 
fatigued with the service of the day. ]\Ir. Gardiner, (who had been preaching several 
years with the people of Lancaster, and was now their pastor elect,) in compassion to 
the soldiery, took the watch that night upon himself j and coming out of the box late 



LANCASTER. 677 

fn ihe night, upon some occasion, was heard by one Samuel Prescott In the house, 
between sleeping and waking, who, supposing him an enemy, seized the first gun 
which came to hand, and shot him through the body in the parade. But the fatal 
mistake immediately appeared ; and he, being carried into the house, forgave the per 
son who shot him, and in an hour or two expired, to the great grief not only of his 
consort, but of his people, who had an high esteem of him. 

" On the 15th of October, 1705, Sir. Thomas Sawyer, with his son, Elias Sawyer, 
and John Biglow, were captivated at his garrisoned house about the dawn of day. 
Mr. Sawyer's youngest son, about fourteen years of age, escaped through a back win- 
dow of the house. 

•' The Indians treated Mr. Sawyer with much cruelty, but at length they arrived at 
Montreal. There Mr. Sawyer observed to the French governor that on the river 
Charablee there was a. fine seat for mills ; and that he would build a saw-mill for him, 
provided he would procure a ransom for himself, his son, and Biglow. The governor 
readily closed with the proposal, as at that tiuie there was no saw-mill in all Canada, 
nor artificer capable of building one. He accordingly applied to the Indians, and ob- 
tained the ransom of young Sawyer and Biglow without the least difficulty, but no 
sum would purchase l\Ir. Sawyer's redemption. Him ("being distinguished for his 
bravery, which had proved fatal to a number of their bretnren) they were determined 
lo immolate. The victim was accordingly led forth and actually fastened to the stake, 
environed with materials so disposed as to efl'ect a lingering death. The savages, sur- 
rounding the unfortunate prisoner, began to anticipate the horrid pleasure of beholding 
their captive writhing in tortures amidst the rising flames, and of rending the air with 
their dismal yells. On a sudden a friar appeared, and with great solemnity held forth 
what he declared to be the key to the gates of purgatory, and told them unless they 
immediately released their prisoner he would instantly unlock those gates and send 
them headlong thereinto. Superstition prevailed, and wrought the deliverance of Mr. 
Sawyer, for they at once unbound him, and gave him up to the governor. In one 
year he completed a mill, when he and Biglow were discharged. They detained his son 
Elias one year longer, to instruct them in the art of sawing and keeping the mill in or- 
der ; when he was amply rewarded and sent home to his friends, where his father and 
he both lived to a good old age, and were gathered to their graves in peace. 

"On August 5th, 1710, a party of the enemy coming by advantage of the bushes 
very near to Mr. Nathaniel and IMr. Oliver Wilder, and an Indian servant, at their 
labor in the field, the servant was killed, but the men escaped to the garrison. And 
this was the laxt inischief done by the enemy in Lancaster." 

The year following the incorporation of the town, Rev. Joseph 
Rowlandson preached among the people, and continning with them, 
he was ordained in 1658, at which time it is probable the church 
was gathered, though not certainly known, as the records were 
destroyed at tlie burning of Mr. Rowlandson's house. After the 
resettlement of the town, Rev. John Whiting was settled in the 
pastoral office, in November, 1690. He continued but a few years, 
being killed, as already related, in 1697. In May, 1701, Rev. 
Andrew Gardner began to preach at Lancaster, and the day of his 
ordination was fixed in the fall of 1704 ; but before the time came, 
a sudden and surprising death arrested him. He was succeeded 
by Rev. John Prentice, who was ordained March 29, 1708. His 
successor was Rev. Timothy Harrington, who was installed in 
1748, Rev. Nathaniel Thayer, D. D., the next pastor, was settled 
in 1793. From the close of the last Indian war the population 
increased rapidly. The first meeting-house, as already stated, was 
burned by the Indians in 1704. Another was raised the next year, 
and completed in 1706. The third was built in 1743. The present 
elegant brick meeting-house was built in 1816, and was dedicated 
on the 1st of January following. Within the present bounds of 
the town there has never been but one incorporated religious 
society. 



578 



LEICESTER 



Lancaster is beautifully situated on the Nashua river, whose 
north and south branches meet near the center of the town. This 
stream annually overflows the extensive intervals on its banks, and 
enriches their already productive soil. There are ten ponds in 
different parts of the town. Interesting specimens of minerals are 
found here, and a large slate quarry was once worked for the sup- 
ply of the Boston market, but has for some time been neglected. 




South-western view of the central part uf Lancaster. 

The above engraving shows the appearance of the central part 
of Lancaster from the road a few rods north of the burying-ground. 
The prominent building in the center, with a spire, is the Congre- 
gational (Unitarian) church. The building with a small spire, to 
the right, is the academy. The Lancaster House, AVith a turret, 
is seen to the left of the church ; the bridge seen below the meeting- 
house is that on which the principal road crosses the Nashua. The 
Lancaster Bank is in this village. Mr. Rowlandson's house, Avhich 
was burnt by the Indians, was located at the spot where the cattle 
are seen feeding. In the central village there are about 75 houses. 
In this place there are many large elms. There are two other vil- 
lages in this town, the south or New Boston, and the North village. 
Population, 1,903. Distance, 16 miles from Worcester, about 25 
from Lowell, and 35 from Boston. In 1837 there were 1 woollen 
and 3 small cotton mills. There were 6 comb manufactories; 
value of combs manufactured, $35,000; males employed, 40; 
females, 9. Engraving in its various branches, printing, and book- 
binding have been carried on to some extent in the central village. 



LEICESTER. 

This township was purchased of the Indians on the 7th of June, 
1686-7, by Joshua Lamb, Richard Draper, Samuel Ruggles, and 
others. The natives called the place Towtaid, but by the Enghsh, 



LEICESTER. 679 

before the present name was given, it was called Strawberry-hill. 
The settlement was not made till many years after the purchase. 

In the beginning of 1713, the proprietors petitioned the general court for a confirma- 
tion of the purchase ; which was granted, on the condition that within 7 years from 
that time 50 families should be settled on a part of the tract, and that a sufficient 
quantity of land should be reserved for the gospel ministry there and a school. The 
court ordered that the town should be named Leicester. It appears that the 50 families 
were settled on land ]M-evious to 1722, for on the Sth of Jan. of that year a deed was 
executed by order of the proprietors to John Stebbins and 46 others, securmg to them 
their lands. Parts of the original purchase are now comprehended in tlie towns of 
Spencer, Paxton, and "Ward. The first town meeting was held on the fith of ]\Iarch, 
1721. The exact time when the Congregational church here was first formed cannot be 
ascertained, but that it Avas organized before the 30th of March, 1721, appears probable, 
since at a town meeting then held the question of settling Mr. David Parsons as 
)instor was acted upon. He was the first minister in the town, and was installed in 
.Sept., 1721. He had previously been settled in Maiden. The connection of Mr. Par- 
suns with the people was very unhappy, as they soon began to differ, and at length 
fi'll into violent contention. Difficulties continuing to increase, the town voted, on the 
M]\ of Jan., 1735, to join in calling an ecclesiastical council to dismiss him, which con- 
'■ning, he was dismissed from his pastoral relation on the 6th of March the same 
year. He continued, however, to reside in the town till his death, in 1737. By his 
particular direction he was buried on his own land, apart from the graves of those 
who had once formed a part of his congiegation. He was unwilling that his ashes 
should repose by the side (if those with whom he had worshipped in the sanctuary, 
but who had contended with him. His grave is now visible in a mowing-field, about 
■^0 rods north of the meeting-house. He was succeeded in the pastoral office by Rev. 
David Goddard, a native of Framingham, in 1736, whose relation to the people was uni- 
formly happy. Kev. Joseph Roberts, the successor of Mr. Goddard, was ordained in 
1754, and was succeeded by Rev. Benjamin Conklin, in 1763. The next minister, Rev. 
Zoph. Swift IMoore, D. D., was ordained in 1798. Dr. Moore was succeeded by Rev. John 
Nelson in 1812. A Baptist society was formed in the town about the year 1738. The first 
minister was Dr. Thomas Green, a physician of considerable distinction in his day. 
He was a native of Maiden, Mass., and M'as one of the early settlers of Leicester. It 
was chiefly through his instrumentality that this church was gathered. Their meet- 
ing-house stands about 3 miles south of the Congregational meeting-house. There 
has been a respectable society of Friends here for more than a century. In 1732, 
eight persons filed their certificate with the town-clerk that they belonged to that per- 
suasion, who, either from a mistake in spelling, or to make a revengeful pun, wrote 
it "those people called Quackers." Their present meeting-house, built in 1791, is com- 
modious and of good proportions. The spot in which it stands is retired, and almost 
surrounded with forest-trees ; around it repose, in their nameless graves, the ashes of 
those who have died of the society. The number of this society is now about 130 
members. In 1823, an Episcopal society was gathered in the south part of the town, 
and a neat church erected by private subscription, which was consecrated by Bishop 
Griswold, in May, 1824. The Rev. Joseph Muenscher was ordained in March, imme- 
diately after which he took charge of this church. This was the first Episcopal church 
ever formed in Worcester county. 

There was from 1777 till 1783 a society of .Tews resident in this 
town. They removed here in the winter of 1777 from Newport, 
R. I., to escape from the war then raging along the coasts. There 
were in the whole, including servants, about 70 who removed here. 
Numbers of them engaged in trade, and licenses arc recorded to 
these " to sell bohea and other Indian teas." After peace took 
place they mostly returned to Newport. They always observed 
the rites and ceremonies of their law, and their stores were closed 
from Friday evening until Monday morning. A child of one of 
the families having one day tasted of some pork in one of the 
neighbor's houses, its mother, immediately upon learning the fact, 
administered a powerful emetic, and thus cast out the sin of which 



580 



LEICESTER, 



it had been unconsciously guilty. Not one of their number now 
remains ; the last individual some years since moved to New York, 
and the synagogue where they worshipped is now desolate and 
forsaken. 

In this town is an endowed academy, and one of the oldest in 
the state, which was incorporated March 23, 17S4. It owes its 
foundation to the generosity and public spirit of Col. Jacob Davis 
and Col. Ebenezer Crafts. This for many years was the only 
academy in the county of Worcester. The character of its instruc- 
tion has ever been elevated and liberal. It has a respectable phi- 
losophical apparatus, which was procured in 1824. 




West view of Leicester. 

The above shows the appearance of the village of Leicester, as 
seen from the residence of N. P. Denny, Esq., on Mount Pleasant, 
about 1 mile distant from the center of the place. The public 
buildings, the Orthodox and Unitarian churches, the academy, the 
bank, and town-house, all stand in a line on the summit of the hill, 
on the north side of a small public green, surrounded by railing. 

The town is well watered by springs and several large brooks. 
Shaw and Henshaw ponds are of some extent. There are 5 
churches, 2 Congregational, 1 Episcopal, 1 Friends, and 1 Baptist. 
Population, 2, 122. Distance, 6 miles from Worcester, and 46 from 
Boston. Clappville is a manufacturing village, situated about 4 
miles from the center of the town, having an Episcopal and Baptist 
church. In 1837, there were 5 woollen mills, 15 sets of machine- 
ry; 130,159 yards of cloth were manufactured; value, $319,450; 
males employed, 166 ; females, 178. There were 8 manufactories 
of machine cards ; machines, 118 ; value of machine cards manu- 
factured, ,9101,500; hands employed, 38; there were 9 manufac- 
tories of hand cards ; machines, 35 ; value of cards manufactured, 
$50,300; hands employed, 32. There was 1 scythe manufactory, 
(20 hands,) and 1 machine manufactory, (8 hands.) 



LUNENBURG. 



681 



LEOMINSTER. 

This town was taken from Lancaster, and was part of what 
was called " Lancaster Neiv Grant." It was incorporated in 1740. 

The church here was embodied in 1743, and Rev. John Rogers -R'as ordained their 
pastor. On account of difference of opinion between him and his people about some 
minor doctrinal points of religion, he was dismissed in 1757. But about one fifth of 
the. society adhering to him, a poll society was made of them by the legislature, with 
whom he preached till prevented by the infirmities of age ; and was dismissed from 
them in 17SS. After the settlement of the controversy with Mr. Rogers, the church 
and town proceeded to the choice of a minister, and in 1762 Rev. Francis Gardner was 
settled their second pastor. After the dismission of Mr. Rogers from the "poll socie- 
ty," that church and society was dissolved, and the members united with Mr. Gard- 
ner's church. Rev. WiUiam Bascom, the successor of Mr. Gardner, was installed in 
1815, and was succeeded by Rev. Abel Conant, in 1824. Rev. Phillips Payson was 
ordained pastor of the 2d church in 1825 ; he was succeeded by Rev. Ochus G. Hub- 
bard, in 1833. 




Suuth-tasteni vit m oj the central part oj Lcuniinsttr. 

This is a pleasant town, and contains much excellent land. The 
north and western parts are hilly, the land rising in long regular 
swells : the eastern part, through which Nashua river passes, has 
extensive plains and tracts of interval. 

The above is a south-eastern view of the central part of Leom- 
inster village, which consists of upwards of 30 dwelling-houses, in 
the immediate vicinity of the two churches represented in the en- 
graving. This place is 20 miles from Worcester. 7 from Lancaster, 
5 from Fitchburg, and 41 from Boston. There are 5 churches, 2 
Congregational, (1 of which is L^nitarian,) 1 Baptist, and 1 Uni- 
versalist. Population, 1,944. In 1837, there were .5 paper-mills in 
this town, and 17 comb manufactories; value of combs, $80,800; 
males employed, 84 ; females, 47. 



LUNENBURG 



Tms town was granted by the general court, in 1719, to a num- 
ber of persons, upon their petition, for a valuable consideration; 



682 M E N D N . 

reserving, however, school and ministerial lands. The grant in- 
chided the whole of the present town of Fitchburg, It was called 
Turkey Hill (from a hill in the middle of the tract which was once 
frequented by wild turkeys) until the time of its incorporation, in 
1728 ; when the name of Lunenburg was given to it, in compli- 
ment to George II., who the preceding year came to the British 
throne, and was styled Duke of Lunenburg, as having in his Ger- 
man dominions a town of that name. Many of the first settlers 
were emigrants from Ireland and Scotland. A church was formed 
here in 1728, and the Rev. Andrew Gardner ordained pastor, a 
few months before the incorporation of the town. He was dis- 
missed in 1732, and was succeeded the next year by Rev. David 
Stearns, who died in 1761. He was followed by Rev. Samuel 
Payson, ordained in 1762, died in a few months. Their next 
minister was Rev. Zabdiel Adams, ordained in 1764. The suc- 
ceeding ministers were Rev. Timothy Flint, ordained in 1802, Rev. 
David Damon, in 1815, and Rev. Ebenezer Hubbard, in 1828. 
Rev. Eli W. Harrington was ordained pastor of the 2d church in 
1837. The land in this town is elevated, and the hills aflbrd the 
best soil. The people are principally engaged in agriculture. In 
1837, there were manufactured 90,000 palm-leaf hats; value, 
$17,000. There were 16,000 volumes of books printed and bound; 
hands employed, 5. In the central part of the town there are two 
churches, and about 15 houses. Distance, 25 miles from Worces- 
ter, 10 from Lancaster, 22 from Lowell, and 40 from Boston. 
Population, 1,250. 



MENDON 



[tor tne history and description of this town, the author is indebted to a well-written 
history, by John Geo. MetcaJf, M. D., of Mendon. It is a matter of regret that this his- 
tory, so politely furnished by the author, could not be copied entire ; but, owing to the 
prescribed limits of this publication, extracts only could be giA'^en.] 

Mendon is situated at the south-easternmost extremity of the 
county of Worcester, and is the oldest town in it except liancaster. 
It was incorporated May 15, 1667. It is 18 miles from Worcester, 
34 from Boston, and 24 from Providence, R. I. It is 12 miles from 
the Worcester and Boston railroad at Westborough. Population 
in 1837, 3,657. 

The face of the town is broken and hilly; the north part is the 
most fertile, producing large crops of hay and grain. This part of 
the township has also long been noted for its variety and abun- 
dance of winter apples. The south-westerly portion of the town is 
generally rough and stony, though there are some excellent farms 
in it. The south-easterly part is more level and sandy, and less 
fertile; the middle, hilly and thinly inhabited. 

The manufacturing villages are all in the south parish, and are 
situated principally upon Mill and Blackstone rivers. They are 
called Millville, Blackstone, Waterford, and Upper and Lower 
Canadas. There are five post-offices in this town, viz. Mendon, 



M E N D O N . 



583 



in the north parish, and South Mendon, Millville, Blackstone and 
Waterford, in the south parish. There are nine houses for pubhc 
worship, viz, 1 Congregational Restorationist, 1 Evangelical, and 
1 Friends in the north parish, and 1 Congregational Restorationist, 
1 Free-Will Baptist, 1 Friends, 2 Calvinistic, and 1 unoccupied, 
in the south parish. 




South-western view of the central part of Mendon. 

[The above shows the appearance of the central part of Mendon, as it is entered 
from the westward. The village consists of three churches, 1 Congregational Resto- 
rationist, 1 Orthodox, and 1 for Friends ; there are, perhaps, upwards of 50 dwelling- 
houses within half a mile of these churches. The village is situated on a commanding 
eminence, having an extensive prospect to the eastward.] 

Mendon was originally settled by people from Braintree and 
Weymouth, in the county of Norfolk. John Moore, George Aid- 
rich, Nathaniel Hareman, Alexander Plumley, Matthias Puffer, 
John Woodland, Ferdinando Thayer, Daniel Lovett, John Hasoer, 
Josiah Chapin, Joseph Penniman, John Scammell, and John Gur- 
ney, of Braintree; Goodman King, Sen., Walter Cook, William 
Holbrook, Joseph White, Goodman Thomson, Goodman John 
Raynes, Goodman Bolter, Sen., Abraham Staples, Samuel Pratt 
and Thomas Bolter, of Weymouth, all had land allotted to them 
before their removal to the town. 

At a general court holden at Boston, Oct. 16, 1660, " in further answer to said Bran- 
try petition, the court declare that they judge meete and proper to grant a. plantation of 
eight miles square, and that the persons named have liberty to enter upon and make a 
beginning thereat." This tract of eight miles square was afterwards purchased of the 
Indians, for the sum of " twenty-fower pounds sterling," as set forth in a deed given 
by " Anawassanauk, alis John, Quashaamait, alis William of Blewe hills, Great John, 
Namsconont alis Peter, and Upannbohqueen, alis Jacob of Natick," to Moses Payn 
and Peter Brackett. "both of Brantre;" said deed bearing date April 22, 1662, and 
witnessed by John Elliot, Sen., John Elliot, Jr. and Daniel Weld, Sen. 

At the time of the above grant the court also ordered " that I\Iajor Humphrey Ath- 
erton, Lieut. Roger Clap, Eliazur Lusher and Deacon Parke, or any three of them, 
shall be and are hereby impowered to make a valid act there." These gentlemen were 
denominated '•' the committee for ]\inmug," which, it seems, was the original name of 
the towa. Oct. 30, 1663, this committee ordered that all those persons who had been 



684 M E N D N . 

accepted to allotments of land in the plantation should remove there, with their fami* 
lies, by the middle of Nov. 1661, " upon penaltie of forfeituer of all their grants there." 
At a general court held at Boston, May 15, 1()67, the plantation oi Nipmug, which 
was now called Quhishepauge, was incorporated by the name of Mendon, and was at- 
tached to the county of Middlesex, May 12, 1670. Moses Payn and Peter Brackett, 
the original grantees, assigned all their right, title and interest in the territory to the 
selectmen of Mendon. 

The first meeting-house was " set on the highest side or part of 
the land, which is n highway, neere to Joseph White's san pitt, in 
his house lott ;" but where Joseph White's sand pit was, and con- 
sequently where the first meeting-house was located, tradition 
does not agree. As the original inhabitants all settled in what is 
now called the north parish, and as the meeting-house was near a 
sand pit, it is presumed that it was placed somewhere between the 
present Friends' meeting-house and Muddy brook. 

There was no magistrate among the first settlers, at least such as would serve the 
purposes of the town, for we find that Jan. 1, 1669, "the town men chose the colonell 
to be returned to the general courte to gain power to take the virdict of y^ jury upon 
y death of John Lovett — to marr)' — and to give the present constable his oath." These 
powers were conferred upon Colonel Crowne, at a general court holden at Boston, 
May 19, 1669. 

Among other orders passed by the selectmen this year, is the following : " Ordered, 
by us, to read the law to y^ youth, to exhorte them to the due and careful observation 
of y' Lord's day, and that their parents be desired to do their duty herein, for the pro- 
moting God's glory, theirs and their children's good." 

Joseph Emerson was the first minister, and was settled Dec. 1, 1669 ; though his 
salary did not begin until Jan. 1, 1670. He was son-in-law to the Rev. Mr. Bunkly, 
■who was minister of Concord, and who concluded the terms of settlement between Mr. 
Emerson and the town. Mr. Emerson's salary Avas forty-five pounds for the first two 
years, to be paid as follows : 

"Tenn pounds at Boston yearly at some shope there, or in money at this town. The 
remayning to be made up, two pounds of butter for every cow, the rest in pork, wheat, 
barley, and soe to make the year's pay in work, Indian corn, rye, pease and beef." 

After the second year he was to be paid fifty-five pounds yearly, " and soe on as God 
shall enable them." All differences between the minister and the town were to be 
referred, for adjudication, to ihe churches of Medfiekl, Dedham and Roxbury. 

Mr. Emerson continued to minister to the spiritual wants of the people until the 
town was destroyed, by the Indians, in King Philip's war, in 167.5. When the inhabit- 
ants of the town returned, in 1680, Mr. Emerson did not come back with them. 

The transactions of a town meeting, holden May 6, 1675, was the last entry in the 
records before the town was burned. One Richard Post was killed at this time, and, 
as tradition says, near the office of the Hon. William S. Hastings. Post lived on the 
road from Mendon leading towards Sherburne, and that portion of it upon which his 
house was situated, though since shut up as a public highway, has retained the name 
of Post's lane to this day. Post was the first man killed in King Philip's war within 
the bounds of the colony of Massachusetts. 

After an absence of about five years, the inhabitants, or at least the major part of 
them, returned, and Jan. 3, 1680, was holden their first town meeting. At this meet- 
ing, among other town officers, Samuel Read was chosen " dark of the scrits." They 
immediately set about rebuilding another meeting-house, and, Oct. 4, 1680, gave a 
call to ]Mr. Grindal Han.son to become their minister. Mr. Hanson accepted the call, 
and immediately entered upon his parochial duties, but was not ordained until April 7, 
1684. His salary was fifty-five pounds per annum, as follows : " fifteen pounds per 
annum in starling country money of New England, and forty pouiias per annum more 
to bee paid in good merehantabell country pay, such as the town raiseth." His salary 
was to be paid semi-annually, on the 25th of October and the 25th of March. All diffi- 
culties were to be referred to a mutual council of Congregational ministers. 

Benjamin Albee built the first grist-mill near where the present mill of Nathan Allen 
stands, and which was destroyed by the Indians, in 1675. Matthias Puffer erected the 
second mill in 1681, near where the first one stood. The first saw-mill was built by 
Serj. Josiah Chapin, and was located upon Muddy brook, some distance above where 
the present road to Milford crosses it. Joseph and Angell Torrey soon after built a 



M E N D O N . 585 

second saw-mill upon School brook, near where the present mill of Obadiah Wood and 
Lyman Keith stands. Joseph Stevens was the first blacksmith, and James Bick the 
second, though it seems he did not live up to his agreement, " to do the town's smithe- 
ry work to their acceptance," for within a year after his settlement the constable was 
directed " to warn James Bick forthwith to take off his frame and fence from the town's 
land, and no more to In Comber the same." 

From this time the inhabitants of the town seem to have pursued the even tenor of 
their ways for many years, without any thing remarkable in the history of their pro- 
ceedings. Mr. Rawson, their minister, and who was a cotemporary and an acquaint- 
ance of Cotton Mather, died Feb. (>, 1715, aged 56 years, and in the 3oth year of his 
ministry. He was an excellent scholar and an eminent divine. His reputation as a 
theologian was of such a character that the general court sometimes referred grave 
and serious questions of ecclesiastical polity to him for his decision. 

Mr. Rawson, though he still continued the minister of the town, did not perform his 
parochial duties lor sonie time before his decease. Feb. 9, 171(5, in concurrence with 
the church, who had chosen Mr. Joseph Dorr for \.\mT pastor, the town also chose him 
to be their mi/iister ; and, on the 24th of the same month, Mr. Dorr was ordained. His 
salary was £70 for the first year, and £75 per annum afterwards ; and for settlement, 
or "encouragement," .£160 was also granted. 

In the year 1726, a great sickness prevailed in this town, as appears by the follow- 
ing official record. "Sept. l(j, 1726. In consideration of the great sickness which is 
now in the town, it passed by a clere vote to lett swine run nt large the remainder of 
the year, being yoked and ringed as the law directs." Tradition reports this sickness 
to have been a dysentery, and that manj^ died of it. 

In 1727, the building of a new meeting-house, being the present old one, near the 
office of Warren Rawson, Esq., began to be talked about. T^is subject gave rise to a 
long and angry contention. At last, ailer the opposition had become wearied with the 
further invention of expedients to put off' the building of the house ; Oct. 22, 1730, "' It 
was voted, that the town provide a Barrell of Rhum towards the raising the meeting- 
house." After it was raised, however, some one of the opposition, not easily appea.sed, 
it seems, undertook to cut off the S. W. corner post, but did not accomphsh his object. 
His mark, it is said, remains to this day. Notice was taken of this act as follows : At a 
town meeting, Aug. 21, 1731, "Voted whether the Town would chuse a Committee to 
see if they could find out who hath, by cutting, damnified the meeting-house ; and it 
passed in the negative." 

The Rev. Joseph Dorr died March 9, 1768, aged 79, and in the 52d year of his minis- 
try. He was succeeded by the Rev. Joseph Wlllard, who was ordained April 19, 1769. 
His salaiy was "60 pounds laM'ful money, with the interest of the ministry money and 
the lands belonging to the Precinct." 

The Rev. Joseph Willard was dismissed from his ministerial charge, in concurrence 
with the church, Dec. 3, 1782. Certain pecuniary matters in dispute between Mr. Wil- 
lard and the parish were referred, for settlement, to an arbitration, composed of Ezra 
Whitney, Esq., of Douglass, Capt. Samuel Warren, of Milford, and James Haws, Esq. 
of Wesiborough. 

The Rev. Mr. Willard was succeeded by the Rev. Caleb Alexander, who was install- 
ed over the first Congregational society in Mendon, March 23, 1786. The society 
failing to support him, he was dismissed June 13, 1791, for the purpose of being retain- 
ed by the first parish. The parish contract with Mr. Alexander is dated Feb. 10, 1792. 
His salary was 90 pounds per annum. I\Ir. Alexander continued to be the minister of 
the first parish in Mendon until Dec. 7, 1802, when, in concurrence with the church, 
he was dismissed. 

Rev. Preserved Smith was his successor. He was installed Oct. 2, 1805, over the 
first and second parishes. His salary was $333 33, one fifth of which was contributed 
by the second parish. Oct. 10, 1812, IMr. Smith was dismissed, in concurrence with 
the church. 

June 16, 1814, the parish gave a call to the Rev. Luther Bailey to settle with them 
in the work of the ministry, but Mr. Bailey did not accede to their proposal. 

The Rev. Simeon Doggett succeeded in the pastoral office, and was settled Jan. 17, 
1815. His salary was $350 per annum. He was dismissed Jan. 18, 1831. 

Rev. Adin Ballou, the present minister of the first parish, was imstalJed May 3, 1832, 
with a salary of $100 per annum. The installation sermon was preached by the Rev. 
Bernard Whitman, of Waltham. April 1, 1837, Mr. Ballou's salary was raised to $500 
per annum. 

The town of Mendon parted with portions of her territory upon the incroporation of 
every one of the towns lying upon her borders, and our Rhode Island neighbors are 



586 M I L L B U R Y . 

endeavoring, still further, to curtail us of our fair proportions. The towns of Belling- 
ham, Milford, Upton, Northbridge, and Uxbridge each came in for their share of our 
territory when they were erected into separate towns. 

The following table shows " the condition and products of cer- 
tain branches of industry" in the town of Mendon, for the year 
ending April 1, 1837. It is copied from an official document. 

"Cotton mills, 8; cotton spindles, 13,914; cotton consumed, 474,000 lbs.; cotton 
goods manufactured, 3,003,000 yards ; value of same. $251,410 ; males employed, 207; 
females, 205 ; capital invested, $323,400. Woollen mills, 4 ; sets of woollen machine- 
ry, 12 ; wool consumed, 330,000 lbs. ; cloth manufactured, 305,000 yards ; vahie of 
same, $324,000; males employed, 71 ; females, 62 ; capital invested, $113,000 ; sperm 
oil used by manufacturers, 4,775 gallons. Common sheep, 142. Boots manufactured, 
22,225 pairs ; shoes, 150 pairs ; value of boots and shoes, $39,800 ; males employed, 
61 ; females, 6. Air and cupola furnace, 1 ; iron castings made, 4 tons ; value of same, 
$480 ; capital invested, $250. Scythe manufactories, 2 ; scythes manufactured, l,8r>0 ; 
value of scythes, $1,400 ; hands employed, 5 ; capital invested, $7,000. Plough manu- 
factory, 1 ; ploughs manufactured, 25 ; value of same, $175 ; employing 1 person. 
Straw bonnets manufactured, 1,500 ; value of same, $4,000. Palm-leaf hats manufac- 
tured, 50 ; value of same, $16 50. Value of machinery manufactured, $6,000 ; hands 
employed, 23 ; capital invested, $5,000. Value of wagons and harnesses manufac- 
tured, $2,000 ; hands employed, 4 ; capital invested, $2,000." 



MILLBURY. 

MiLLBURY, formerly a part of Sutton, was incorporated as a town 
in 1813. It was incorporated as a parish in 1742, and called the 
second parish in Sutton. The first meeting-house was built in 
1743, but the church was not embodied till 1747. Rev. James 
Wellman, the first pastor, was ordained in 1747 ; Rev. Ebenezer 
Chaplin, his successor, was ordained in 1764. Rev. Joseph Goffe, 
the next pastor, was ordained in 1794. Rev. Osgood Herrick 
succeeded Mr. Goffe in 1830. The next pastor, Rev. Nathaniel 
Beach, was settled in 1837. The Rev. George Caiupbell was in- 
stalled the first pastor of the Second church, in 1830; he was 
succeeded, in 1834, by Rev. William A. Learned. Rev. Samuel 
G. Buckingham, the next pastor, was ordained in 1837. 

In the town are several flourishing villages. The one seen in the engraving is called 
the Armory Village, in which is the post-office ; Millbury Bank, with a capital of 
$100,000; and the Second Congregational meeting-house. Burbank Village is situ- 
ated about one mile south-westerly, in which is a number of factories, and the First 
Congregational meeting-house, having a large basement story occupied as a town 
hall. About two miles farther west, is another village, in which is a post-office, called 
the West Blillbury post-office. At the northern extremity of this village is a meeting- 
house, which is occupied by the Baptist and the Third Congregational Societies. 
There is also a society of Methodists in this town, who hold their meetings in a large 
hall in Armory Village. 

Rlillbury is pleasantly situated, and extensively engaged in manufacturing. The 
township is generally hilly, though of good soil. It is watered by the Blackstone 
river, and the Blackstone canal passes through Armory village, in which is a number 
of locks. A branch of the Boston and Worcester railroad was constructed to this 
place in 1838, giving the inhabitants the advantages of a direct and constant communi. 
cation with Boston. 



MILFORD. 



687 




North-jvestern view in MiUbury. 

Population, 2,153. Distance, 6 miles from Worcester, and 42 from 
Boston. In 1837, there were 6 woollen mills ; IS sets of machine- 
ry ; 166,000 yards of cloth were manufactured; value, .1^348,000; 
males employed, 148; females, 128 ; one cotton mill; 1,848 cotton 
sjjindles ; 350,000 yards of cotton goods were manufactured ; value, 
>"<25.000; males employed, 20; females, 20. One musket manu- 
factory; 2,500 muskets manufactured; value, $25,000; hands 
employed, 30; one scythe manufactory; 14,400 scythes manufac- 
tured ; value, $9,600 ; there were 9,800 pairs of boots and 80,500 
pairs of shoes manufactured; value, .$'93,175; males employed, 
150; females, 63; one paper-mill ; value of paper, 1)15,000. 



MILFORD. 

This town was formerly the north-easterly part of Mendon. It 
was set off as a separate parish in 1741, and was commonly 
known by the name of Mill River. It was incorporated as a town 
in 1780. The church was formed here in 1741, of 26 male mem- 
bers; over which Rev. Amariah Frost was settled in 1743. Some 
time after the settlement of Mr. Frost, a separation took place, and 
a Mr. Hovey preached to the disaffected, and was ordained among 
them. He remained with them, however, but a few years. Mr, 
Frost continued pastor of the first society till his death, in 1792; 
he was succeeded by Rev. David Long, in 1801. 

The following is a north-eastern view of the central part of Mil- 
ford, as seen from the road on the eastern side of a branch of Charles 
river, a mill stream passing through the village. In the engraving, 
the Universalist church is seen on the right ; the spires of the Con- 
gregational church and town-house are seen towards the central 
part. An academy was established in this place in 1830. Popu- 
lation, 1,637. Distance, 18 miles from Worcester, and 28 from 

78 



588 



NEW BBAINTRBE. 




North-east viciv of MUford. 

Boston. In 1837, there were 128.000 pairs of boots manufactured; 
value, .f 212,200 ; males employed, 305; females, 37; there were 
4,000 straw, bonnets manufactured; value. ,912.000; one cotton 
mill, 1,200 spindles; 80,000 yards of cotton goods were manufac- 
tured ; value, $5,000. 

Though the surface of this town is not very hilly,' the land rises in some places, espe- 
cially towards the north. From the highest elevations in this part of the town there is 
a wide and variegated prospect. This northern part was a purchase from the Indians 
by the first proprietors of Mendon, and was called the '' North 'Purchase." There are 
two rivers in this town : Charles river, which passes through the east part, and IMill 
river, which passes through the western. The last-mentioned river is the outlet of a 
large pond, of a mile in length, partly in Milford, but principally in Hopkinton and Up- 
ton, called North Pond. There are good meadows and interval lands upon the borders 
of both of these rivers. The town is well watered with springs, rivulets and brooks in 
all parts. Agriculture is the principal business of the inhabitants. The town produces 
annually for market, considerable quantities of butter, cheese, pork, beef, &c., perhaps 
equal to any in the country. 

Gen. Alexander Scavimel was a native of this town. He graduated at Harvard Uni- 
versity, 1769, and was appointed a surveyor of timber in Massachusetts and province 
of Maine, under the British government. In 1775, he was a brigade-major in the 
American army ; in 1777, a colonel at the taking of Gen. Burgoyne, and adjutant-gene- 
ral of the army at Yorktown, where he was unfortunately wounded in reconnoitering, 
Sept. 30, 1781, just before the surrender of Cornwallis, of which wound he soon after 
died. 



NEW BRAINTREE. 

The general court having granted 6,000 acres of land to certain 
persons of the ancient town of Braintree, in the county of Suffolk, 
for services rendered to the public, it was called and known by 
the name of Braintree Farms. This tract, together with a part of 
Brookfield and a part of Hardwick, was incorporated in 1751, and 
named New Braintree. The church was embodied here in 1754, 
and Rev. Benjamin Ruggles was ordained their first pastor. Rev. 
Daniel Foster was ordained a colleague with Mr. Ruggles in 1778. 
Mr. Ruggles died suddenly in 1782, in the 82d year of his age, and 



NORTHBOROUGH. 589 

62d of his ministry. Rev. John Fiske, the successor of Mr. Foster, 
was ordained in 1796, 

The surface of this town is uneven, with moderate hills and val- 
leys ; the soil is generally good, but better adapted to grazing than 
tillage. The town is celebrated for good farmers, and the abundance 
of excellent beef, butter, and cheese produced. The township is 
finely watered by brooks, rivulets and springs. Ware river passes 
its western border. In the west part of the town is Me-min-i-mis- 
set brook, formed entirely by springs from the adjacent hills, which, 
running north, empties into Ware river. On this brook is an ex- 
tensive and luxuriant meadow of several hundreds of acres, called 
Meminimisset, the name given to it by the Indians, when a hideous 
swamp. This was the head-quarters and chief place of rendezvous 
of the savages at the time when Brookfield was destroyed ; and 
near which place 8 brave men were killed, and three mortally 
wounded, by the Indians, Aug. 22, 167.5. And hither Mrs. Row- 
landsou was brought a captive, who was taken by the enemy at 
Lancaster, on the lOth of February, 1676 ; and here she buried her 
murdered child on the 18th of that month. Population, 780. Dis- 
tance, 18 miles from Worcester, and 58 from Boston. In ] 837, there 
were 18,000 palm-leaf hats manufactured; value, |i4,000. 



NORTHBOROUGH, 



This was the north part of the town of Westborough, the main 
part whereof was set off from Marlborough in 1717. It was made 
the second precinct, or parish, of Westborough in 1744, and incor- 
porated a town in 1766. There were settlers in this part of Marl- 
borough before there were any in what is now Westborough. 
As early as 1700, or rather before, a few families had fixed down 
here. The following is a list of persons who were heads of fami- 
lies in this place before it became a separate parish : 

John Brigham, Nathaniel Oakes, Oliver Ward, Joseph Wheeler, 

Samuel Goodenow, Simeon Howard, Sen., Dea. Isaac Tomblin, Simon Rice, 

Sam. Goodenow, Jr., Gershom Fay, Sen., Hezekiah Tomblin, Daniel Bartlett. 
David Goodenow, Thomas Ward, Ephraim Beeman, 

The Congregational church was gathered in this place on the 
21st of May, 1746, and on the same day the Rev. John Martin, a 
native of Boston and graduate of Harvard College in 1724, was 
ordained their first pastor. He died April 30, 1767, aged 61, and 
was succeeded by the Rev. Peter Whitney, a native of Petersham 
and graduate of Harvard, in 1762, (where he also pursued his 
theological studies,) who was ordained Nov. 4, 1767. He was the 
author of the History of Worcester County, a work highly valuable 
for the facts it records, many of which would probably have been 
lost, had they not with great pains and fidelity been collected in 
this work. He died in 1816, aged 72. Rev. Joseph Allen, his 
successor, was ordained the same year. Rev. Samuel Austin Fay 
was ordained pastor of the 2d church in 1832 ; he was succeeded 
by Rev. Daniel H. Emerson, in 1836. 



690 NOBTHBOROUGH. 

During the first years of the settlement of the town, a garrison was kept at a house 
on the lower side of the township, toward Marlborough, near the brook now known by 
the name of Stirrup brook. On the iSlh of August, 1707, as Mary Goodenow and Mrs. 
Mary Fay, wife of Gershom Fay, were gathering herbs in the adjoining meadow, a party 
■of Indians, 24 in number, all stout warriors, were seen issuing from the woods and 
making towards them. Mrs. Fay succeeded in making her escape. She was closely 
pursued by a party of the enemy, but, before they came up, had time to enter the gar- 
rison and fasten the gate of the enclosure. There fortunately happened to be one man 
then within, the rest of the men belonging to the fort being in the fields at work. Their 
savage invaders attempted in vain to break through the enclosure. These heroic de- 
fenders by great exertions maintained the unequal conflict, till a party of friends, alarm- 
ed by the report of the muskets, came to their relief, when the enemy betook themselves 
to flight. Mrs. Fay discovered great presence of mind during the assault, being con- 
stantly employed in loading and reloadmg the muskets belonging to the garrison, and 
handing them to her companion, who by this means was able to keep up a constant 
fire on the invaders. The unfortunate young woman, Miss Goodenow, being retarded 
in her flight by lameness, was seized by her merciless pursuers and dragged over the 
brook into the edge of Marlborough, and there, a little south of the road and nigh to 
Sandy hill, she was killed and scalped. On the following day the enemy were pursued 
by a company of about 30 men from Marlborough and Lancaster, and overtaken in 
what is now Sterling, where a hard conflict ensued, in which '.) of their number and 2 
of our men were slain. In one of their packs was found the scalp of the unfortunate 
Miss Goodenow, which was the first intimation that was obtained of her melancholy 
fate. Upon the return of the English they sought for and found her body, and there 
buried it ; and her grave is yet visible. 

The town of Northborough lies in a kind of valley between the 
highlands of Marlborough on the east, and tliose of Shrewsbury 
and Roylston on the west. There are 3 churches, 2 Congrega- 
tional and 1 Baptist. Population, 1,224. Distance, 10 miles from 
Worcester, and 32 from Boston. In 1837, there were 2 cotton 
mills; 1,820 spindles; 220,000 yards of cotton goods were manu- 
factured ; value $30,400. There were 7,255 pairs of boots and 
20,800 pairs of shoes manufactured; value, .^30,720; males em- 
ployed, 50 ; females, 25. The following notice of Mr. Monis, who 
died in Northborough, is taken from Whitney's History of Worces- 
ter County. 

"Mr. Monis, as I suppose, the first Hebrew instructor in our university at Cam- 
bridge, was born in Italy. When he came into America I am not able to say. He 
married a Miss Rlarrett, of Cambridge, who died in the year 1761; whereupon he 
resigned his office, and retired to Northborough, and spent the residue of his days in the 
family of the late Rev. John Mart\^n. Mrs. Monis and Mrs. Blartyn were sisters. He 
left something very honorable and generous to the church in Northborough. He 
bequeathed forty-six pounds thirteen shillings and four pence, to be equally divided 
among seven of the minisiers then living in the vicinity. Also, he left about an hun 
dred and twenty-six pounds as a fund, the interest whereof was to be distributed 
among widows of mmisters who were in indigent circumstances ; and the remainder 
of his estate, which was considerable, he gave to the IMartyn family. The following is 
the inscription on his grave-stone : 

" Here lie buried the remains of Rabbi Judah Monis, M. A., Late Hebrew Instructor 
At Harvard College in Cambridge ; In which office he continued 40 years. He was 
by birth and religion a Jew, But embraced the Christian faith. And was publickly bap- 
tized At Cambridge, A. D. 1722, And departed this life April 25"'' 1764, Aged eighty- 
one years, two months and twenty-one days. 

"A native branch of .Tacol) .see, iFrom teeming Zion's fertile womb, Isai. 66. 8. 

Which once from off its olive broke; I As dewy drops in early mom, Psalm 110. 3. 

Eegrafled from the living tree, Rom. U. 17, 24. Or rising bodies from the tomb, John, 5. 28, 29. 

Of Ihe reviving sap partook. | At once be Israel's nation bom." Isai. 66. 8, 



NORTH BROOKFIELD. 591 

NORTHBRIDGE. 

This town was chiefly taken from Uxbridge, and derived its 
name from its situation and bearing relative to tiiat town. It was 
incorporated a distinct town in 1772. The first church was or- 
ganized in 1782, and the next year Rev. John Crane, D. D., was 
ordained their pastor : his successor was Rev. Samuel H. Fletcher, 
Avho was settled in 1832 ; Rev. Charles Furbush, the next pastor, 
was settled in 1831. Rev. Michael Burditt was mstalled pastor 
over the second village church in 1835. 

The surface of this town is somewhat rocky and rough, but the 
soil in general is rich, strong, and good. It is finely watered by 
springs, streams, and rivers. Of these Blackstone and Mumford 
rivers are the largest. On these rivers are tracts of good interval 
land. Blackstone canal passes through this town, on the west bank 
of Blackstone river. Tliere are 4 churches, 2 Congregational, 1 
Methodist, and 1 for Friends. Population, 1.409. Distance, 12 
miles from Worcester and 3-5 from Boston. In 1837, there were 
4 cotton mills; cotton spindles. 9,000; cotton goods manufactured, 
1,450.000 yards; value, $136,750; males employed, 90; females, 
107; one woollen mill, 3 sets of machinery; 100,000 yards of sati- 
net were manufactured; value, $70,000; males employed, 40; 
females, 20. There were 600 pairs of boots and 53,500 pairs of 
shoes manufactured ; value, §50,000 ; males employed, 75 ; fe- 
males, 20 ; value of cotton machinery manufactured, $25,000. 



NORTH BROOKFIELD. 

This town was originally the second parish in the town of 
Brookfield ; it was incorporated as such in 1750. It was incorpo- 
rated as a town in 1812. The first meeting-house in this town 
was raised in 1749, and completed after a few years. This house 
was occupied for public worship till January. 1824, when a new 
one, situated about half a mile north of the old one, was completed. 
The church in this town was gathered in 1752, and Rev. Eli 
Fobes, D. D., was ordained their minister the same year. Dr. 
Fobes was succeeded by Rev. Joseph Appleton, in 1776. The next 
minister was Rev. Thomas Snell, D. D., who was ordained in 1798. 

The following is a southern view of the central part of North 
Brookfield, showing part of the Congregational church on the right, 
and part of the town-house on the left. The village, which has 
mostly been built up in the course of about ten years since, consists 
of about 30 dwelling-houses, and 2 churches, 1 Congregational and 
1 Methodist. Deacon Tyler and Mr. Ezra Bacheler were, it is 
believed, the first settlers in the village. The shoe business was 
first begnn in this place by Mr. Oliver Ward. Population, 1,509. 
Distance, 18 miles from Worcester, 4 from Brookfield, 30 from 
Springfield, and 58 from Boston. In 1837 there were manufac- 
tured ill this town 24,170 pairs of boots, and 559,900 pairs of 55b<»es, 



692 



OAK HAM. 




Southtrn vieiv of North Brookjield. 

the value of which was $470,316 ; males employed, 550 ; females, 
300. There was 1 Avoollen mill, which manufactured 9,195 yards 
of cloth, valued at $10,758 15. 

The following inscriptions are copied from the village grave- 
yard: 

In memory of the Rev. Joseph Appleton of Brookfield, who died July 25, 1795, in 
the 44th year of his age, and 19lh of his ministry. He was solemn and fervent in 
prayer, pathetic and instructive in his preaching, an example of meekness, patience, 
and resignation under trials. In life and at death he enjoyed the comfort of that reli- 
gion which he preached and practised. 

Erected in memory of Doct'r Jacob Kitteredge, who died July 2Sth, 1813, aged 63. 



" Beneath the sacred honors of the tomb, 
In awful silence and majestic gloom, 
The man of mercy here conceals his head, 
Amidst the awful mansions of the dead. 



No more his liberal hai\d shall help the poor, 
Relieve distress, and scatter joy no more. 
While he from death did others seek to save, 
Death threwa dart and plung'd him in the grave." 



OAKHAM. 

This town was formerly a part of Rutland, and after the incor- 
poration of that town was called " Rutland West Wing," until 
1762, when it was incorporated a town by the name of Oakham. 
The church in this place was embodied in 1767, in the Presbyte- 
rian form, and the next year Rev. John Strickland was ordained 
pastor. He was dismissed in 1773, and the church was dissolved. 
Shortly after, in the same year, a church on the Congregational 
plan was organized, but had no settled pastor till 1786, when Rev. 
Daniel Tomlinson was ordained. Rev. Asa Hixon, jr. was settled 
colleague pastor in 1829. Rev. James Kimball, the next minister, 
was installed in 1832. The general surface of this town is hilly 
and stony. The soil is better adapted to grazing than ploughing. 
Five Mile river, a branch of the Chicopee, is a stream of conside- 
rable size, and Ware river runs across the north angle of the town. 
Population, 1,109. Distance, 16 miles from Worcester, and 66 



OXFORD. 593 

from Boston. In 1837, there was 1 satinet mill ; 20,000 palm-leaf 
hats and 1,300 straw bonnets were manufactured, valued at $7,486. 



OXFORD 



This town was a grant made by the government, m 1682, to 
Joseph Dudley, Esq., governor, to William Stoughton, Esq., lieut. 
governor of Massachiiisetts, to Major Robert Thomson, Messrs. 
Cox and Blackwell, and associates. It was styled " a tract of land 
lying in the Nipnet or Nipniuc comitry,'' (the Indian name of 
which was Mauchaug.) The grant expressed 8 square miles, but 
according to the survey and boundaries it comprehended 12 miles 
in length from east to west, and about 9 in width, comprehending 
the whole of Charlton and a part of Dudley and of Ward. 

It was surveyed by Mr. Gore of Roxbury, and a return thereof being made to the 
general court, they accepted the same, and on the 16th of May, 1683, they granted the 
plantation and gave it the name of Oxford. The original proprietors of Oxford, in 
the year 16S6, took on to the grant 30 families of French Protestants, who were driven 
cut of France in consequence of the repeal of the edict of Nantz by Louis XIV., in 
the year 1681. According to a IMS. delineation of the town of Oxford, it was laid 
out in lots in the names of the original proprietors. Between eleven and twelve thou- 
sand acres at the east end were "severed, granted, and set apart for a village, called 
Oxford, for the said families." Some of these people were from Rochelle, in France, or 
vicinity. They had with them a French Protestant minister, Mr. Daniel Bondett. 
They built a meeting-house, (which stood near the road leading to Norwich, Conn.) 
and near this was their burying-ground. They built two forts for defence against the 
Indians, one of which was near their meeting-house, at the foot of Mayo's hill ; the 
other, the larger ibrt, stood on the summit of the hdl. A well in each of the forts is 
to be seen, though they are both nearly filled up. These settlers set up a grist and a 
malt mill, and planted vineyards and orchards, the remains of which are yet to be seen. 
They acquired the right of representation in the provincial legislature. Of this fact 
the public records preserve the evidence ; for, in the year 1693, an act was passed em- 
powering Oxford to send a representative to the general court. The French plantation 
can be clearly traced down to the year 1696, at which time it was broken i;p by an 
incursion of the Indians. It appears they killed a ftlr. John Evans, and John Johnson 
and three of his children. Sirs. Johnson was saved by her brother, Mr. Andrew 
Sigourney, sen., vi'ho, hearing the report of the guns, ran to the house and pulled her 
out of the back door, (with a child in her arms.) and took her over French river, which 
they waded through, and fled towards Woodstock, Conn., where there was a garrison. 
The Indians killed the children, dashing them against the jambs of the fireplace. Mr. 
Johnson, having been to Woodstock, returned as the Indians were massacring his 
family, and was shot down at his own door. Upon the dispersion of the French set- 
tlers from Oxford, it appears that most of them went to Boston. It is believed that, 
after the fear of the Indians had subsided, a few families returned to Oxford, but 
most of these went back again to Boston, in about 19 years from the time of their first 
settlement of Oxford, about the time of the erection of the first French church in 
Boston, in 1701-5. Among the French Protestants who emigrated to Boston and lived 
for a time in Oxford, were Montel, Jacques Dupcn, Capt. Jermon, Peter Cante, Bereau 
Caeini, Elie Dupeu, Ober Jermon, Jean Maillet, Andre Segourne, Jean Maillet, ant., 
Peter Canton, Jean Jeanson, Mr. Germaine, Jean Beaudoin, Boudinot, and Benja- 
min Faneuil.* 

* Other settlements of French Protestants were made in different places in America, 
(principally in New York, Virginia, and Carolina.) Some of the descendants of these 
people have rendered distinguished services to our country. Of the nine presidents 
of the old congress, who conducted the United States through the revolutionary war, 
three were descendants of French refugees who had emigrated to America in conse- 
quence of the revocation of the edict of Nantz. These were Henry Laurens of South 
'^axolina, John Jay of New York, and Elias Boudinot of New Jersey. 



594 



OXFOBD. 




Site of the Fi-ench Fort on Mtiyoh Hill, Oxford, Mass 



The above shows the situation (as viewed from the south-east) 
of the principal fort of the French Protestants, whicli they erected 
as a defence against the Indians on Mayo's Hill. The pile of 
stones seen near the center of the engraving, by which a person is 
standing, shows the precise spot of the cellar of the fort or fortified 
house. Mr. Samuel Mayo, on whose farm this interesting relic is 
situated, has shown a laudable spirit in preserving the remains of 
the fort from being obliterated. The well (which is filled up, ex- 
cept a small depression,) was situated at the feet of the person 
standing by the stone wall. On the left of the engraving, about 
four rods south of the cellar of the fort, is seen a grape vine which 
was originally planted by the Huguenots. They had another fort 
to the westward of this, on the first elevation, seen beyond the re- 
mains of the fort. It is probable the church and burying-ground 
were near this place. In the distance is seen, to the north-west, 
the village of Oxford, about one mile and a fourth in a direct line. 
This village contains about 40 houses, 2 churches, and a bank. 
French river is seen liowing to the eastward of the village: When 
standing on the site of the fort, the observer has a commanding 
prospect, especially to the westward. Wachusett mountain is 
seen rising in the distance far to the north-west. 

The following is an extract from a poetical tribute to the 
memory of the Huguenots of Oxford, by Mrs. L. H. Sigourney : 



' On visiting a vine planted by the Huguenots, at 
the ruins of the French Fort at Oxford. 

Not by rash, thoughtless hands, 

Who sacrifice to Bacchus, pouring forth 
Libations at his altar, with wild songs 
Hailing his maddeaeJ orgies, wert thou borne 
To western climes — but with the sulTeiiug band 
Of pious Huguenots didst cross the wave. 
When they essay'd to plant salvation's vine 
In the drear wilderness. Pensive they niark'd 
The everlasting forest's gloomy shade, 
The uncultured vale, the snow invested heath, 



Track'd by the vengeful native; yet to rear 
Their temple to the" Eternal Sire, and pay 
Unfelter'd homase to his name with joy, 
Though on their hymn of praise the desert howl'd. 
The savage arrows scalh'd them, and dark clouds 
Involv'd their infant Zion; yet they bore 
Toil and allliction with unwavering eye, 
FIx'd on the heavens, and finn in hope sublime 
Sank to their last repose. — Full many a son 
Among the noblest of our land looks back 
Through lime's long vista, and e.\ulting claims 
These as their sires." 



At the abdication of the Huguenots, the lands of the township reverted to the pro- 
prietors, -who, on the 8th of July, 1713, granted them to others for a settlement, oa 
condition that their number should amount to 30 families at least. The requisite num* 



P A X T N . 595 

ticr of associates was obtained. The town was incorporated in 1713 : about a year 
und a half from the date of the grant a distribution was made by lot to the 30 families. 
The following is the list of persons as they drew their lots : 
Daniel Eliot, Jr., William Hudson, Joshua Whitney, Nath'l Chamberlin, 
Ephraim Town, Benjamin Nealand, Joseph Kockel, Jonathan Tillotson, 

Samuel Hagbourn, Jos. Chamberlin, Jr., Ebenezer Larned, Oliver Coller, 
Benoni Twichell, Daniel Eliot, Sen., Joseph Chamberlin, John Chandler, Jr., 
Isaac Larned. Abiel Lamb, Thomas Hunkins, Benj. Chamberlin, 

Joshua Chandler, Thomas Gleason, Edmund Taylor, Abram Skinner, 
Ebenezer Humphrey, John Town, Eben"r Chamberhn, Israel Town. 

Daniel Pearson, John Coller, 

The town of Oxford is not very hilly or uneven. In the cen- 
ter is a large plain, of a mile and a half in length and about a mile 
in width, which is nearly all under cultivation. Near the north 
end of this plain stands the Congregational meeting-house, and 
about a mile south of this the meeting-house of the Universalists. 
The village is mostly built on one long street, running nearly north 
and south. From the plain the land rises on all sides, but not very 
high. French river, passing through this town, affords it a fine 
water power. There are extensive cotton and woollen manufac- 
tories. Oxford Bank has a capital of $100,000. Distance, 10 
miles from Worcester, and 45 from Boston. Population, 2,047. 
In 1837 there were 4 cotton mills ; cotton spindles, 6,226; cotton 
goods manufactured, 6-53,500 yards; value, $92,685; males em- 
ployed, 66 ; females, 67. There were 5 woollen mills, 12^ sets 
of machinery ; cloth manufactured, 184,820 yards ; value, $371,915 ; 
males employed, 122 ; females, 78. There were 4,165 pairs of boots 
and 33,522 pairs of shoes manufactured ; value, $36,794 ; males 
employed, 66 ; females, 45. 

The first church was gathered in this town January 18, 1721, and the Rev. John 
Campbell (a native of Scotland) was ordained their pastor in March the same year. 
He died in 1761, and was succeeded by Rev. Joseph Bowman, who was installed in 
1764. Mr. Bowman lived in great harmony with the people until 1775, when the war 
occasioned differences among them, which led a number to profess themselves Quakers, 
and then they "declared themselves to be of the sect called Universalists." These 
difficulties led to the dismission of Mr. Bowman in 1782. The following ministers 
have succeeded Mr. Bowman: Elias Dudley in 1791, Josiah Moulton in 1805, David 
Batcheller in 1816, Ebenezer Newhall in 1S23, Loren Robbins in 1832, and Horatio 
Bardwell in 1836. 

The resettlement of the town at first proceeded slowly from fear 
of the natives, but it is not known, except what has been related, 
that any person in Oxford was killed by them. Concerning the 
Indians, Hutchinson gives the following incident : 

'' On the 6th of August, 1774, four Indians came upon a small house in Oxford, 
which was built under a hill. They made a breach in the roof, and as one of them 
was attempting to enter he received a shot in his belly from a courageous woman, the 
only person in the house, who had two muskets and two pistols charged, and was pre- 
pared for all four, but they thought fit to retreat, carrying off the dead or wounded 
man. It is a pity the name of this heroine has not been preserved, that it might be 
handed down to latest posterity." 



PAXTON 



The principal part of this town originally belonged to Rutland 
and Leicester, the line between which towns formerly passed a httle 
north of where Paxton meeting-house now stands. It was incor- 



596 



PETERSHAM 



porated as a district by an act of the general court, by the name of 
Paxton, in 1765. The first settlements were made within its Hmits 
a few years after the settlement of Rutland and Leicester, which 
was about 1720. It is certain that before 1745 there were several 
families in the place, and some considerable improvements made. 

Among the early settlers were Josiah Livermore and his brother, Jason Livermore, 
and Ahijah Bemis, from Weston. Near them were also William Thomson and ono 
or two of his sons. The settlement of the town was never interrupted by Indian depie- 
dations, or by any other cahimity. but gradually progressed till all tlie land was taken 
up. It is believed that this town was never constituted such by any direct legislative 
act • it, however, assumed full town privileges some time in the year 177ti, when 
Mr. Abraham Smith was sent representative to the general court. 

At the first meeting after the organization of the district, holdeu on the first of April, 
1765, a vote passed to build a mee;ing-liouse, which was accordingly erected the same 
year.' Rev. Silas Eiglow was ordauied their first pastor. October 21, 1767. He con- 
tinued but little more than two years in the othce, being removed by death, Nov. 16, 
1769, and was succeeded the next year by Rev. Alexander Thayer. The next minis- 
ter was Rev. John Foster, who was ordained in 1785 ; his successor was Rev. Daniel 
Grosvenor, who was installed in 1794. The next pastor, Rev. Gaius Conant, was 
ordained in 1808, and was succeeded in 1832 by Rev. Moses Winch. Mr. Winch was 
.'.ucceeded by Rev. James D. Farnsworth, in 1835. 




Central part of Paxton. 

The above is a southern view of the Congregational church in 
the central part of Paxton. This town is hilly, consisting of large 
swells of land, which on their summits are so levelled as to appear 
like plains, the acclivity in many instances being so slight and 
gradual as hardly to be perceived for a considerable extent on 
their tops. The two highest hills in the town are Turkey Hill and 
Asnebumskit Hill. From the top of the last-mentioned hill, in 
a clear day, the prospect is very extensive and delightful. Popu- 
lation, 619. Distance, 7 miles from Worcester, and 47 from Boston. 
In 1837, there were manufactured in this town 24,200 pairs of boots ; 
value, $48,430 ; males employed, 53, females, 9. 



PETERSHAM. 

This was an original grant made by the general court, in 1732, 
to John Bennet, Jeremiah Purley, and others, as a compensation 



PETERSHAM 



597 



for services done by them in the Indian wars, under Capt, John 
White, of Lancaster. Some time after the grant, the proprietors 




Southern view of Petcnham. 

purchased the soil of the Indians, for a satisfactory consideration, 
and took of them a deed. It had been a residence of the Indians, 
and was called by them Nlc/i-e-7oaug, which name it bore until i-t 
was incorporated a town, in 1754. 

The chief seat of the Indians appears to have been in the soiiih part of the town, 
near Nicliewaug Hill, whereon, as in some other parts of the town, Ihej' had planted 
tie!ct> of Indian corn, the traces of which were remaining; when the English began a 
settlement there. The first settlers experienced many hardships and difficnlties. lu 
the infancy of the settlement, in 1714, a French war broke out, and the Indians, being 
always in the interest of the French, became hostile, and began to commit depredations 
in various parts of the land, which occasioned the few inhabitants great fear, and 
obliged them for their safety to fortify a number of houses in different parts of the town, 
into each of -which a number of families moved, and soldiers were stationed there as a 
gunrd to the inhabitants and to reconnoiter the country. 

The church was gathered in this place, and the first pastor, Rev. Aaron Whitney, 
was ordained, in 1738. He died in 1779, in the 41st year of his ministry, and the 
next year was succeeded by Rev. Solomon Reed. The ne.xt pastor, Rev. Festus Fos- 
ter, was ordained in 1802 ; his successor was Rev. Luther Wilson, who was installed 
in 1819. The next pastor, Rev. George R. Noyes. was installed in 1834. Rev. Wil 
liam Wolcott was ordained pastor of the second church in 1830 ; he was succeeded by 
Rev. Caleb B. Tracy, in 1834. 

The cut is a southern view in the central part of Petersham, 
showing the public buildings, &c. The natural situation of the 
town is very beautiful : it is elevated, but not hilly or uneven. The 
center of the town lies upon the highest land in it, which is a 
large, long, flat hill, upon the highest part of which runs the prin- 
cipal street from north to south, and for upAvards of three miles in 
length affords a most commanding prospect, not only of the whole 
town, but of the towns adjoining. The soil is rich and fertile, and 
the land bears all kinds of grain, but it is most natural to grass and 
pasturage. This town is watered by Swift river, on which are 
some manufactories of iron. Here are 3 churches, 2 Congrega- 
tional and I Baptist. Population, 1,731. Distance, 29 miles from 



698 PHlLLIPSTOIf. 

Worcester, and 62 from Boston. In 1837, there were manufactured 
in this town 130,525 palm-leaf hats ; value, $25,495. There is 1 
woollen mill. 



PHILLIPSTON 



This town was chiefly taken from Templeton, and was set off 
as a separate parish in 1774, and in 1786 was incorporated a town, 
and named Gerry, in honor of Elbridge Gerry, a vice-president of 
the United States ; " but on account of the disapprobation of his 
measures when governor of Massachusetts, and especially a law 
for districting the state for the choice of senators, which was highly 
obnoxious to a majority of the town, they petitioned to the court, 
and the name was changed to Phillipston, in 1812." The organ- 
ization of a church was retarded on account of the revolutionary 
war. However, in 1785, one was gathered, under the direction of 
the ecclesiastical council, and in 1788 Rev. Ebenezer Tucker was 
ordained pastor. He was succeeded, in 1800, by Rev. Ezekiel 
Bascom ; the next minister, Rev. Joseph Chickering, was installed 
in 1822, and was succeeded by Rev. Alexander Lovell, in 1835. 

This town is uneven, consisting of hills and valleys, but the soil 
is productive. Two miles west of the meeting-house is situated a 
very fertile hill, large in extent, called Prospect Hill. There is an 
eminence on this hill, which overlooks all the highlands for many 
miles around. Upon it are many excellent farms. About a mile 
east of the center is situated a large and fine pond. There are 
3 churches, 1 Congregational, 1 Universalist, and 1 Methodist. 
Population, 887. Distance, 30 miles from Worcester, and 58 from 
Boston. In 1837, there was one cotton mill, 1,.512 spindles; 
165,000 yards of cotton goods manufactured; value, !|15,000 ; one 
woollen mill ; 11,500 yards of cloth manufactured ; value, $25,000. 
Palm-leaf hats manufactured, 65,500; value, $15,600. 



PRINCETON 



This township was partly taken from Rutland, and partly made 
up of some lands in the neighborhood which belonged to the state. 
It was incorporated in 1771, and named Princeton, in honor of Rev. 
Thomas Prince, pastor of the Old South church in Boston, and a 
large proprietor of this tract of land. 

At the time of its incorporation there were about 20 families in the place. The 
inhabitants erected a meeting-house in 1762, and in 1764 the church was embodied ; 
and after a number of unsuccessful attempts to settle a minister, Rev. Timothy Fuller 
was ordained, in 1767. He was dismissed in 1776, and the church was destitute of a 
pastor till 1786, when Rev. Thomas Crafts was ordained. In consequence of ill health, 
he was dismissed in 1791. Rev. Joseph Russell, the next pastor, was ordained 1796, 
and was succeeded by Rev. James Murdock, D. D., in 1802. Rev. Samuel Clarke 
succeeded Dr. Murdock in 1817. Rev. Alonzo PhilHps was ordained the pastor of the 
second church in 1820, and was succeeded by Rev. Elijah Demojid in 1836. 



PRINCETON. 



599 




View of the central part of Princeton. 

The above is a south-west view of the Congregational churcli 
and some other buildings in the central part of Princeton, which is 
very elevated and commands an extensive prospect. The spire 
of the ancient church is seen rising in the extreme distance. 

The surface of this town is hilly, but has a good soil. It is 
watered by numerous springs and rivulets, and a branch of the 
Nashua river, which begins at the foot of Wachusett Hill. There 
are several places in the town where springs issue and the waters 
divide, running some into MerrimaCj some into Connecticut river. 




Distant view of Wachusett Mountain. 

Wachusett Mountain lies in the north-west part of the township, 
and is the highest land in the state east of the Green Mountain 
range. It is a little more than 3,000 feet above the level of the 
sea, and rises, without any very steep ascent, about 1,900 feet 
higher than the surrounding country. The sides of the mountain 
are generally covered with wood, which gradually dwindles in 
size towards the top, till it becomes mere shrubbery, and on the 
summit vegetation almost entirely ceases. Wachusett gives to the 
spectator upon its summit a view of the country from 30 to 50 
miles on every side. The principal rivers and ponds of the 
county, and many of the towns and villages, are presented very 
distinctly to the naked eye. This place is much frequented in the 



600 EOYALSTON, 

summer months. Part of Wachiisett Pond lies in this town, and 
part in Westminster, the dividing line passing through it. In the 
south-west part of the town is Quinepoxet Pond, some part of 
which falls within the limits of Holden. There are 4 churches, 
1 Congregational, 1 Presbyterian, 1 Universalist. and 1 Baptist. 
Population, 1.267. Distance, 15 miles from Worcester, and 45 from 
Boston. In 1837 there were 50,0(J0 pairs of shoes manufactured ; 
value, i^2U,()()0; there were 75,000 pahii-leaf hats manufactured; 
value, |9,500. 



11 O Y A L S T N . 

This town was granted by the general court, in 1752, to the 
Hon. Messrs. Hubbard, Erving, Royal, Otis, and others. The grant 
was known by the name of Koyalshire, until its incorporation in 
1765, when it was called Royalston, in compliment to the late Col. 
Isaac Royal, one of the original proprietors. Before the last French 
war, some who intended to settle at the place began to work upon 
their lands, but the breaking out of the Avar put a stop thereto. 
Towards the close of that war, some people began to work there 
again, and in 1762 several families moved into tlie place, tlie first 
of which came in June. Its progress in improvement was very 
rapid, for in less than three years from that time it was incorporated 
with distinct town privileges. In 1766 a Congregational church 
was organized in the town, and in 1768 Rev. Joseph Lee was or- 
dained their pastor. Mr. Lee continued an able and faithful pastor 
more than 50 years. His successor. Rev. Ebenezer Perkins, w^s 
ordained in 1819. Among the first settlers there were about 10 
Baptist families. Their first teacher was Rev. Elisha Rice, who 
continued but a short time. He was succeeded by Rev. AVhitman 
Jacobs, installed in 1770. 

The land in this town consists generally of hills and valle}^s, and the soil is excellent, 
being suitable for tillage or grazing. It is watered by Miller's river and its tributary 
waters, upon which is much good meadow. Several small streams, one of which has 
upon it a perpendicular fall of 20 feet, and descends 100 feet in 40 rods, unite and form 
Tully river, which pours into Miller's river a great quantity of water. These various 
streams aflbrd a number of good mill sites. Population, 1,629. Distance, 31 mdes from 
Worcester, and 70 from Boston. In 1S37 there were two woollen mills, 6 sets of ma- 
chinery ; 72,000 yards of cloth were manufactured ; value, ^72,000; males employed, 
34 ; females, 34 ; there were 129,000 palm-leaf hats manufactured ; value, $1(),225 ; 
three manufactories of chairs and cabinet ware ; value of articles manufactured, $15,041; 
hands employed, 17 j there were 11 saw-mills; value of lumber, $18,165; hands em- 
ployed, 22. 



RUTLAND 



This town was purchased of the Indians, in 1686, for £23 of the 
currency of that time, and a deed executed to Henry Willard, Jo- 
seph Rowlandson, Joseph Foster, Benjamin Willard, and Cyprian 
Stevens, by Wanapapan and Walipunit, of Natick, and others, In- 
dian proprietors. The general name of this tract was Naqnag. 

This deed was recorded, but nothing further was done with the purchase for 26 years. 
In 1713, upon petition of the proprietors, it was confirmed to them by the general court, 
coaditionally, that within 7 years' time 60 families should be settled upon it. The con- 



EUTLAND. 



OOi 



rtitions of the grant being ftilfiHed, the town was incorporated by the legislature, at 
their May session, in 1722. The Rev. Joseph Willard was chosen unanimously by 
the inhabitants to be their minister, but, as events look place, was never settled t<^ilh 
them. The church was gathered in November, 1727, and at the same time Rev. Thomas 
Frink was ordained their first pastor. He was dismissed in 1740, and was succeeded 
by Rev. Joseph Buckminster in 1742. He preached to the people 50 years, and died 
1792. In about 8 months he was succeeded by Rev. Hezekiah Goodrich. Mr. Good- 
rich died in 1812, and was succeeded by Rev. Luke B. Foster, in 1813. The next pas- 
tor, Rev. Josiah Clarke, was ordained in 1818. 




Public Buildirigs in the central part of Rutland. 

The above is a south-western view of the Congregational church, 
toAvn-house, and hotel, in the central part of Rutland. These 
buildings are situated on a very elevated situation, having a com- 
manding prospect in almost every direction. 

This town is situated on tlie heiglit of land between the sea and 
Connecticut river, and is hilly and very uneven. It has no large 
stream, but is watered by a branch of Ware river, which affords 
power for several mills. This is a good grazing township, and the 
inhabitants export considerable beef, butter, and cheese. There is 
fine fishing at Mustapaitg- and Long ponds. About half a mile east 
of the meeting-house is a spring, the waters of which soon divide; 
part runs to the Merrimac aud part to Connecticut river. Popu- 
lation, 1,265. Distance, 12 miles from Worcester, and .51 from Bos- 
ton. In 1837 there was 1 woollen mill, which manufactured 26,000 
yards of cloth; value, $1.5,080 ; there were 10,304 pairs of boots, 
and 5,950 pairs of shoes manufactured ; value, ,^23,369; males em- 
ployed, 37; females, 13. The following account of the disturb- 
ances from the Indians is from Whitney's History of Worcester 
County : 

'•We have .said the settlers, in 1721, invited the Rev. Joseph Willard to settle with 
them, which invitation he accepted. This Mr. Wdlard had been ordained a minister 
of Sunderland, in the county of Hampshire, but continued a very little time with them 
before he was dismissed. After he had accepted the invitation to settle with the people 
of Rutland, he met with many and great discouragements, and particularly by reason 
of the fears and dangers arising from the Indians ; sotliat an appointment of his instal- 
lation was deferred. However, at length a day was fixed upon for his solemn separa- 
tion to the work of the ministry in that place, in the fall of the year 1723 ; but he lived 
not to see the day, being cut off by the enemy, as shall be now related. As Deacon 
Joseph Stevens and four of his sons were making hay in a meadow, at Rutland, a little 
n(>rth of the place where the meeting-house now sta^'^s. A'l^ust 14th, 1723, they were 



602 SHREWSBURY. 

surprised by five Indians. The father escaped in the bushes ; two of his sons were 
then and there slain ; the other two, (Phineas the eldest, and Isaac the youngest,) were 
made prisoners. Two of the five Indians waylaid a IMr. Davis and sun, who that after- 
noon were making hay in a meadow not far off, but, weary of waiting, they were return- 
ing to the others, and met Mr. Willard in their way, who was armed. One of the 
Indians' guns missed fire, the others did no execution. Mr. Willard returned the fire, 
and wounded one of them, it is said mortally ; the other closed in with ]Mr. Willard, but 
he would have been more than a match for him, had not the other three come to his 
assistance ; and it was some considerable time before they killed Mr. Willard. This 
account Phineas Stevens gave upon his return from captivity, who was a spectator ot 
some part of the tragedy. The Indians having killed and scalped Mr. Willard, and 
taken some of his clothes, went off to Canada, with the two captives above named. 
They were redeemed in about a year. Phineas -Stevens was a famous warrior, a cap- 
tain, and a principal man in building up and defending the then young plantation No. 
4, now Charlestown, in New Hampshire state. Isaac Stevens lived at Rutland. They 
have both been dead many years. On the 3d of August, 1724, the Indians came again 
upon Rutland, killed three persons, wounded one, and made another prisoner. This is 
as I find it related in Governor Hutchinson's history. Others speak of but two killed; 
but the names of the killed, wounded, or prisoner, cannot now be ascertained. This 
was the last mischief done at Rutland by the Indians, so far as we can learn." 



SHREWSBURY. 

This township was granted to certain persons in 1717, most of 
whom belonged to Marlborough, and \y:is originally larger than at 
present. It began to be settled the same year by a few people from 
Marlborough; but the settlement did not progress as rapidly as some 
other towns in its vicinity. Indeed, at that time people, not deem- 
ing it a good tract of land, passed through and took up their resi- 
dence elsewhere. Such progress was, however, made, in the course 
of ten years, that application was made to the general court to be 
invested with full town privileges. This petition was granted, and 
the town incorporated in 1727. The town originally included most 
of what is now Boylston, most of West Boylston, and a portion of 
Sterling, Westborough, and Grafton. It is a remarkable fact that 
the name of Indian, as is stated, does not occur on the records of the 
town. They had, some years before, retired to a distance too great 
to alarm the first settlers. 

The first church was gathered in this town on the 4th of December, 1723'. Rev. Job 
Gushing was settled as their pastor on the same occasion. He died in 1760, and was 
succeeded by Fiev. Joseph Sumner, D. D., who was ordained in 1762. The next minis- 
ter. Rev. Samuel B. Ingersoll. was settled in 1820, and died the same year. He was 
succeeded, in 1821, by Rev. Edwards Whipple. Rev. George Allen, the next pastor, 
was settled in 1823. The first meeting-house was erected in 1721. The cost of the 
building was defrayed by a tax of £5 on each proprietor, which amounted to the sum 
of £210. After a lapse of aboiU 40 years, the society voted, in October, 1764, to build 
a new meeting-house, 60 feet in length and 45 in width. The Baptist society in this 
towTi was formed in 1812, and their meeting-house built in 1813, at the cost of about 
$450. Mr. Elias McGregory was their first settled minister, ordained June 17, 1818. 
The Restoration society was formed April, 1820, and was incorporated in 1824. 

The following is a southern view of the Congregational church, 
which, with the principal part of the village, stands on a commanding 
elevation. Distance, 6 miles from Worcester, and 36 from Boston. 
Population, 1,507. This is principally an agricultural town. In 
1837 there were 93,101 pairs of shoes manufactured; value, |88,993; 
males employed, 140 ; females, 109 ; value of clothing manufac- 
tured, |60,000. 
This town presents to the eye an uneven surface, variegated with 



SHREWSBURY. 



60S 




Southern view of the Cojigregational Church, Shrewsbury. 

hills and valleys. A range of highland, extending from north to 
south, passes through the middle of the • town. The numerous 
swells and tracts of rolling land, which are most of them in good 
cultivation, are to be seen in all directions from the middle of the 
town, and give a pleasing variety to the landscape. The town is 
well watered by springs and rivulets, though there are no laro-e 
rivers in the town. Long pond, called by the natives Q,ninsio-amond, 
lying in this town by tiie line of Worcester, is a beautiful piece of 
water. It lies in the form of a crescent, nearly four miles long as 
it runs, and from 100 rods to near a mile in width. The water is, 
in general, of considerable depth ; in some places it has been found 
to be 90 feet deep. There are twelve islands in this pond, of vari- 
ous sizes. Stratton's Island, which contains 150 acres under culti- 
vation, has several families living upon it. Some of the other islands 
are more or less cultivated. This pond is the principal feeder of 
Blackstone canal. In the south-west part of the town is a large 
meadow, which contains excellent peat. 

The following account of a fire which took place in the infancy 
of the settlenient is from the Boston News Letter of Aug. 15, 1723 : 

" Boston., August 15th, 1723. 

"An exact account of the awful burning of Cnpf. John Keyes's house, with five per- 
sons in it, at Shrewsbury, in the night between the 7th and 8th of this inst., taken from 
a letter of the Rev. Mr. Breck of INIariborough, and from the mouth of 3Ir. Ebenezer 
Bragg of the same, formerly of Ipswich, the only person of those who lodged in the 
house who, by a distinguishing providence, escaped the flames. 

"Capt. Keyes was budding an house about nine or ten feet off his old one. It was 
almost finished. And Mr. Bragg aforesaid, the carpenter, with his brother Abiel, of 17 
years of age. and William Oaks of 18, his apprentices, were working about it. Capt. 
Keyes, with his wife and four daughters, lodged in the old one ; and'the three carpen- 
ters, with three sons of the Captain's, viz. Solomon of twenty, John of thirteen, and Ste- 
phen of six years of age, lay in the new. On the Wednesday night, going to bed, they 
took a more than ordinary cnre of the fire, being excited thereto by the saying of one, 
He would not have the house burnt for an hundred pounds ; and the reply of another, He 
would not for two hundred. Upon which, they carefully raked away the chips lying near 
it, and stayed till the rest were almost burnt out ; and then they went all six together 
into three beds in one of the chambers ; and were very cheerly and merry at their going 
to bed, which was about ten of the clock. 

" But about midnight I\Ir. Bragg was awaked with a notion of the house being on fire, 
and a multitude caUing to quench it; with which he got up, saw nothing, heard no 
voice, but could hardly fetch any breath, through the stifling smoke ; concluded the 
house was on fire, perceived somebody stirring, against whom he hit two or three times 



604 SOUTHBOROUGH. 

in the dark : And not being able to speak, or to breathe any longer, and striking hi^ 
forehead against the chimney, he thought of the -i^nndow and happily found it. When 
he gained it, he tarried a minute, holding it fast with one hand, and reaching out the 
other, in hopes of meeting with some or other to save them, till the smoke and fire came 
so thick and scorching upon him, he could endure no longer ; and hearing no noise in the 
chamber, only, as he thought, a famt groan or two, he was forced to jump out, and, the 
window being small, head foremos^t ; though he supposes, by God's good providence, hp 
turned before he came to the ground. As Mr. Bragg was just got up again, Capt, 
Keyes, being awaked in the old house, was coming to this side of the new. and met him. 
But the flame immediately burst out of the windows, and the house was quickly all on 
a light fire No noise was heard of the other five who perished : and it is very ques 
tionable whether more than one of them moved out of their beds. The old house was 
also burnt, and almost every thing in it ; but the people were saved, through the great 
goodness of God. But a most dreadful sight it was in the morning, lo see the 5 bodies 
frying m the fire, among the timbers fallen down in the cellar, till towards the evening, 
when the few almost consumed fragments, without heads or limbs, were gathered, put 
into one coffin, and burjed. Psalm Ixvi. 3, Say unto God, Hon- terrible art thou m thy 
works! James iv. loth. Ye know nut nhiit shall be on the morrow. Luke xii. 40th, Be 
ye therefore ready. ^^ Thus far the newspnper. . 

" The Capt. Keyes above named was afterwards the well-known and much esteemed 
Major John Keyes, who died in Shrewsbury, not many years since, i-n a very advanced 
age. The new house which was burnt stood on the great road, about three quarters of 
a mile eastward from the present meeting-house ; and upon the same spot a large 
dwelling-house now stands." 

The following is the inscription on the monument of Gen. Ward, 
in the grave-yard back of the church, represented in the engraving: 

SacreJ to the menmry of the Hoiiora1)le Arlemas Ward, E-f:"ir.', Nvho wa-s bonii in Shrewsbury, Nov. 1727, 
graduated at Harvanl College 1748. Being furiiislied with natural and aciinffeil abilities for public and im- 
portant trusts, in 17.j1 he was coMimissioned a Justice of the Peace; in 1762 he w.as appointed a Justice of 
the Court of Common Pleas in this county ; in 177(5 was made prejiidenl of llie said court. His firm attach- 
ment to the rights of nia.i induced him to take an active part in thec:iuse of America ?;id whfln the eon- 
iroversy with Great Britain was about lobe decided by the sword, heco.isented to take the command gf the 
American army, and contiLiueil in coiimand during a most critical per oa of the contest. In 1 . 7'j he was 
appointed a member of Coogre.ss, and by the free sutfrages of his feUowcili/.ens 'vas. repeatedly elected a 
Tneinber under the Fedenal Governmejit, and continued in elevated public .stations until aee and bodily in- 
firmity constrained him to retire. Such Wiis the firmness of his mind that he was swayed neither by the 
ajiplanse or censures of man, but appeared ever to act under a sense of duty and accountability to God. In 
every public station he ac^iuitted himself with dignity, aliiliiy, and integrity, and his memory will long bo 
precioua with the friends of liberty and religion. He died Oct. 28, 1809, in the 73d year of his age. 



SOUTHBOROUGH. 

This town was taken from the ancient town of Marlborough, and 
derived its name from the circumstance of its lying about south 
from that town. It was incorporated by the general cotu't in 1727. 
The first church was embodied here in 1730, and the Rev. Nathan 
Stone ordained the first pastor. He remained with the people till 
his death, in 1781, after which the church was destitute of a settled 
minister till 1791, when Rev. Samuel Sumner was ordained. The 
next pastor. Rev. Jeroboam Parker, was ordained in 1799, and was 
succeeded by Rev. John D. Sweet. Rev. Walter Follet was or- 
dained pastor of the second church in 1832. This church was 
organized in 1831. There is a Baptist church in the town. Popu- 
lation, 1,113. Distance, 15 miles from Worcester, and 30 from Bos- 
Ion. The surface of this town is moderately uneven, and the soil 
productive. It is watered by a number of small streams and brooks. 
In 1837, there was a small woollen mill in the town; there were 
manufactured 170 pairs of boots and 39,312 pairs of shoes ; value, 
$31,560; males employed, 80; females, 75. There were 5,500 
straw bonnets manufactured ; value, $9,000. 



SPENCER 



606 



SOUTHBRIDGE. 

SouTHBRiDGE was Originally a part of Stiirbridge, Charlton, and 
Dudley. It was incorporated as a town in 1814. The first church 
was organized here in 1801, and Rev. Jason Park was ordained the 
first pastor in 1816. He was succeeded by Rev. Henry J. Lamb, 
who was ordained in 1833. His successor, Rev. Eber Carpenter, 
was installed in 1835. There are 3 churches, 1 Congregational, 1 
Baptist, and 1 Methodist. 




South-eastern view of the central part of Southbridge. 

The above is a south-eastern view in this flourishing village, 
which consists of about 40 or 50 dwelling-houses, besides other 
buildings. The Baptist church is seen on the right; the South- 
bridge Bank, Hotel, &c., on the left. The township is watered by 
the Quinnebaug, which passes centrally through the town. Popu- 
lation, 1,740. Distance, 20 miles from Worcester, and 60 from 
Boston. In 1837 there were 3 cotton mills, 6,844 spindles; 1,130,160 
yards of cotton goods were manufactured; value, $05,900; males 
employed, 83 ; females, 89; one woollen mill, 4 sets of machinery; 
50,000 yards of cloth were manufactured; value, $150,000; males 
employed, 75 ; females, 50; boots manufactured, 590 pairs ; shoes, 
15,475; value, $15,712; males employed, 17; females, 14. 

In 1801 the inhabitants of the south-eastern section of Stiirbridge, (now Southbridg^e,) 
ninety in number, were, upon their petition, incorporated into a Poll Porhh. These 
90 persons, with their famihes, formed rather a distinct community for many years, and 
the place of their residence was generally known by the name of Honest Town. 



SPENCER, 



The whole of this town was included in the original grant of 
Leicester. It was made a parish in the year 1744, by the name of 
the West Parish of Leicester, and was incorporated a town in 1753, 
by the name of Spencer. The church was organized here in 1744, 
and Rev. Joshua Eaton was ordained their pastor the same year. 
He continued with the people till his death, in 1772, and was suc- 
ceeded, the next year, by Rev, Joseph Pope. The next ni'"^'^*- 



606 



STERLING. 



was Rev. Stephen Crosby, who was settled in 1819, Mr. Crosby 
was succeeded by Rev. Levi Packard, in 1826. 




iSouth-ivest view of Spencer. 

The above engraving shows the appearance of the central part 
of Spencer, as it is entered from the westward, upon the road to 
Brookfield. The Congregational church is seen on the right, on the 
elevated ground in the distance. The Universalist church is the 
building with a tower, standing in the compact part of the village, 
which consists of about 40 dwelling-houses. 

This town is elevated, and is said to be 950 feet above the tide 
waters in Boston harbor. The surface is rough and uneven, but 
the soil is very fertile. It is watered by many streams, which run 
through the different parts; but none of them are of much size. 
Seven-Mile river is the largest. There are 3 churches, 1 Congre- 
gational, 1 Baptist, and 1 Universalist. Population, 2,08.5. Dis- 
tance, 11 miles from Worcester, and 51 from Boston. In 1837 there 
were 2 woollen mills, 4 sets of machinery ; 34,000 yards of cloth 
were manufactured ; value of woollen goods, !|87,000 ; males em- 
ployed, 31; females, 23; there were 52,091 pairs of boots and 2,940 
pairs of shoes manufactured ; value, $106,496 ; males employed, 
162; females, 28; four Avire-drawing mills: 19 tons of wire manu- 
factured; value, $10,480; ten hands employed; there Avere 2 
powder mills ; 162,500 lbs. of powder were manufactured; value, 
$14,500; there were 29,600 palm-leaf hats manufactured; value, 
$7,000 



STERLING. 

This was for many years the second parish in Lancaster, and was 
usually called Chockset. It was made a separate parish in the 
year 1743, and remained united with Lancaster until April 25, 
1781 ; when it was incorporated by an act of the legislature, and 
received its present name in compliment to Lord Sterling, of New 
Jersey, who served as a general in the American army in the revo- 
lutionary war. 

The first inhabitants established themselves in this town as early as 1720. Gamaliel 
Bpaman was the first inhabitant, and was immediately followed by Samuel Sawyer, 



STURBRIDGE. 607 

Benjamin Haughton, David Osgood, and Jonathan Osgood. They were all natives of 
Lancaster old parish, and of families who had long resided there. Their houses were 
all within short distances of each other, lying north-westerly of the meeting-house. The 
first meetinL':-house was built in 1742. The church was gathered Dec. 19, 1744, and 
Rev. John Mellen was ordained their minister the same day. The second meeting- 
house was erected in 1799, on the site of the old one. It was dedicated on the first 
Sunday of the year 1800. The successor of Mr. Mellen was Rev. Reuben Holcoinb, 
who was ordained in 1779 ; he was succeeded by Rev. Lemuel Capen, who was ordain- 
ed in 1815. Rev. Peter Osgood, the next minister, was settled in 1819. 

The .siivfiice of thi.s town is hilly and uneven, but there is very- 
little broken or waste land in it. Tlie soil is fertile, producing in 
rich abundance, to repay the husbandman for its cultivation. The 
land is naturally moist, and by the help of the rivulets the water 
may be turned over the sides of most of the hills. There is but 
one river in this town, called Still river, from the placid motion of 
its waters. In the central part of the town there is an luicom- 
monly beautiful little village, consisting of 2 churches and about 
20 dwelling-houses. Population, 1,6.50. Distance, 11 miles from 
Worcester, and 40 from Boston. In 1837, there were 24 manufac- 
tories of chairs and cabinet ware; the value of chairs and cabinet 
ware was .$53,228 ; hands employed, 80. There were 22,500 
palm-leaf hats manufactured; value, ^7,200; value of scythe 
snaiths manufactia-ed, .$5,000. 



STURBRIDGE 



The land of this town was originally granted, in 1729, to seve- 
ral petitioners of Medfield, and manj^ of the first settlers were from 
that town, and hence the place was called x\ew Medfield, until its 
incorporation in 1738, when it received the name of Sturbridge. 
The following, respecting the first settlers, is from Rev. Joseph S. 
Clark's Historical Sketch of Sturbridge, published in 1838 : 

" Henry Fi.ske, one of tlie oriiinal proprietors, and his bmlhor Daniel, pitched their tent near tlie top of the 
hill whicli has ever sine ; l>orn« tlieir name. Tliey had been at work fir ■^ome lime without l<nowins which 
way they must look for their nearest neighbor, or whether indeed they had a neighbor nearer than one of 
the adjacent towns. At lensrth on a clear aftcrnt)on they heard the soimd of an a.ve far off in a snntherly 
directioii, ai.d went in pursuit of it. The individual whose solitary axe they heard had also been attracted 
by tlie sound of theirs, and was advancing towards tbem on thi- same errand. They came in si?!n of one 
another, on oppiwite sides of the Quinebani river. By felling two trees into llie .stream, one from each bank, 
a bridge wa.s constructed on wliich they were able to meet and exch.iiige saint lions. The unknown man 
of the axe was found to be James Denison. one of the proprietors, who, in the absence of a better home, had 
taken lodgings in a cave, which i,s still to be seen not far from Wcstvill. In that lonely den he continued 
liis abode, it is said, till a neighboring wolf, who probably had a prior claim to the premises, signified a wish 
to take possession, when Mr, Denison peaceably withdrew and built him a hon.se of his own. 

" For some time after the work of clearing the forest had been undertaken, no one had ventured to spend 
the lehiter in a place .so desolate and distant from the track of man. The proprietors, or whom.soever they 
employed, usually came in the sprin?, and returned to their respective towns in the autumn. Joseph Smith, 
with no other companion than his faithful dog, was the first who encountered the risors of winter in Stur- 
bridge. Alexander Selkirk w;i3 not more si;clnded from human society on the island of Juan Fernandez, 
than Mr. Smith was in this place during four months, having neither seen nor he.ird from a human being 
in all that time. The cellar which protected his frugal .store from the frosts of that dreary winter may still 
be seen on the farm of Jabez Harding, Ek|., not far from an aged pear-tree, which Mr. Smith is said to have 
planted soon after he came." 

The proprietors built a meeting-house, which was consecrated, in 1733, by Rev. Jo- 
seph Baxter, of Medfield. In 1736 the Rev. Caleb Rice was ordained pastor. About 
1747, a number of his church, conceiving they had received new light, difl'erent from 
the rest of the people, separated from him. 3Ir. Rice died in 1759. He was succeeded 
by Rev. Joshua Paine, who was ordained in 1761. Rev. Otis Lane, the next minister, 
was ordained in ISOl, and was succeeded by Rev. Alvan Bond, in 1819. Rev. Joseph 
S. Clark succeeded Mr. Bond in 1831. The persons who separated from Mr. Rice's 



ons 



STURBRIDGB 



church formed themselves into a Baptist church about 1750. The first meeting-house 
of ihis society was built on Fisk's Hill, in 1784. Rev. William Ewing was their first 
minister. Rev. Jordan Dodge was ordained their pastor in 1784, and was dismissed in 
17^8. The next minister, Rev. Zenas L. Leonard, was ordained in 1796. His succes- 
sor, Rev. Addison Parker, was installed in 1833. Rev. Isaac Merriam and Rev. 0.0. 
Stearns have been the succeeding pastors. 

The central village lies in a valley between two hills, which are 
about two miles apart. The soil in tliis valley is fertile. The vil- 
lage consists of about 30 dwelling-houses, a Congregational and 
Baptist church. The engraving shows the appearance of the vil- 
lage as it appears when seen from the north-east, upon the Charlton 
road. Population, 2,004. Distance, 18 miles from Worcester, and 
58 from Boston. The Quinebaug has its source in this town ; it 
originates from near Lead-mine pond, takes a circuitous course into 
Union, Holland, Brimfield, and back into Sturbridge. Upon this 
stream are considerable tracts of interval and meadow lands. There 
are a number of ponds in this town, near one of which, called Lead- 
mine pond, a number of adventurers from Europe, many years 
since, dug deep for ore, a considerable quantity of which they car 
lied with them to England. They never, however, returned. 




«,vcOsS.^vCv^i«k%^.isffc 



^^ry^ y<y<i , y. M' 



In 1837 there were G cotton mills, 8,664 spindles: 820,749 yards 
of cotton goods were manufactured; value, $117,134: males em- 
ployed, 71 ; females, 117; there were manufactured 2,220 pairs of 
boots, and 12,660 pairs of shoes; value, $18,306 40; males em- 
ployed, 35 ; females, 15 ; value of pocket rifles manufactured, 
$20,275 ; hands employed, 36. 

In the southern part of the township is an extensive tract of broken land, called Breakneck, near which 
the Breakneck pond in Union, Conn., takes its rise. A ledge of rocks in this tract extends about a mile, 
which, in some places, is 1110 feel perpendicular. This ledge has been a great place for rattlesnakes. It is 
mated that an old lady, the wife of an extensive farmer by the name of Howard, living in this vicinity, after 
her dairy business was done in the morniMg. in the Month of j\lay, used to go out and kill rattlesnakes; and 
that she had been known to have killed .as n^any as 16 in one iriorning. These snakes, some years ago, 
were made considerable u.se of for medicinal purposes; the oil as a remedy for the quinsy and sprains, the 
skin for rheumatism and headaches ; and the gall was also used in medicinal preparations. They were 
wortli from about .')H to T.'i cents per head, and it was for the profit of the business tliat it was followed by 
the old lady. The only instance known of any peison being bit here by a rattlesnake was that of a lad — 
liis father filled his mouth with toljacco juice and sucked out the poison, so that the elTecIs of the bite were 
scarcely perceptible. Black snakes, upwards of nine feet in length, have been killed in the Breakneck 
r»gion 



S TJ T T O N . 



609 



SUTTON. 

This town was originally purchased by a number of persons of 
John Wampus, a sachem, and his company of Indians, who claim- 
ed it, and was confirmed to the purchasers by the general court in 
1704. It was formed into a township and called Sutton by an act 
of the legislature in 1715. The settling of the town was retard- 
ed for some time by reason of the wars with the Indians. 

In the year 1716, three families were seated in the place, and spent the succeeding 
winter there, which was that of the great snow. This snow fell on some of the last 
days of February, (0. S.) and came so deep that it wholly covered over the hut in which 
one of the families lived. The man being from home, the family would probably have 
.suffered much, had not an Indian, who knew the circumstances, come to their relief. 
He found the cottage only by the hole which the smoke from the fireplace had made 
through the snow. In September, 1717, the first child was born in the town, named 
Abigail Marsh, daughter of Mr. Benjamin Marsh. 




Congregational Church, Sutton. 



The above is a western view of the Congregational church in 
Sutton, which is situated on an elevated hill, commanding an ex- 
tensive prospect in various directions. At present there are but 
few houses in the immediate vicinity of the church. 

This is a pleasant town, and extensively engaged in manufac- 
turing. It is watered by the Blackstone river, and the Blackstone 
canaf passes on the northern border. The township is generally 
hilly, though of good soil. It contains soap-stone, and excellent 
granite for building. In the town are 2 Congregational meeting- 
houses, 2 Baptist, and 1 Episcopal. Population, 2,457. Distance, 
10 miles from Worcester, and 44 from Boston. Wilkinsonville, 
a small manufacturing village, containing an Episcopal church, is 
on Blackstone river, on the northern border of the town.^ In 1837 
there were in the limits of the toAvn 4 cotton mills, 7,356 spindles; 
1.301,727 yards of cotton goods were manufactured; value, 
$125,572 ; males employed, 94 ; females, 100 : 2 woollen mills, 4 
sets of machinery ; 82,000 yards of cloth were manufactured ; 
value, $110,000: males employed, 40; females, 24. There were 
2,000'dozen of shuttles manufactured; value, $10,000; hands em- 



610 



TEMPLETON 



ployed, 12. Boots manufactured, 9,314 pairs; shoes, 51,968 pairsj 
value, $55,656; males employed, 1U3; females, 99. Spindles 
manufactured, 30,0U0 ; value. .$5,000. Value of scythes manufac- 
tured, $3,350. 

The first church in Sutton was organized in the fall of 1720, and Rev. John 
McKinstry ordained their pastor. He was a native of Scotland, and was there edu 
cated. He was dismissed in 1728, and was succeeded the next year by Rev. David 
Hall, D. D., who, after a life of usefulness, died 1789. He was succeeded by Rev. Ed- 
mund Mills, in 1790. The next pastor, Rev. John Maltby, was ordained in 1626. His 
successor, Rev. Hiram Tracy, was ordained in 1835. The second parish in Sutton 
was incorporated by the legislature in 1743. Rev. James Wilman was their first pas- 
tor, ordained in 1717. The first Baptist society in the town was formed in 1785, and 
Rev. Benjamin Marsh was ordained their elder. Of the Baptist society in the south- 
east part of the town, Elder Wm. Bachelder was the first pastor, ordained in 1792. 



T E ]\I P L E T O N . 

This town was an original grant to certain persons who did ser- 
vice in King Philip's war, or to their lieirs, and was known hy the 
f 




JVorth vinr oj TimpUton, (^rentral part.) 

name of Narragansett No. 6 until its incorporation, in 1762, when 
the name of Templeton was given to it. The first meeting of the 
proprietors of this tract was held at Concord, in 1733. 

Its settlement was greatly retarded through danger from the Indians, but after the 
close of the French wars inhabitants moved in and the settlement rapidly improved. 
The first church was gathered here in 1755, and Rev. Daniel Pond was ordained pastor. 
He was dismissed in 1759, and succeeded by Rev. Ebenezcr Spr'rhawk in 17til. The 
next minister, Rev. Charles Wellmgton, was ordained in 1807. Rev. Lemuel P. Bates 
was installed pastor of the second church in 1833. He was succeeded by Rev. Lewis 
Sabin in 1837. 

This is a pleasant town, of uneven surface, but contains much 
good land. It is watered by branches of Miller's and Chicopee 
rivers, and has many excellent mill-sites. The engraving above 
is a north view in the village of Templeton, which consists of 2 
churches and about 30 dwelling-houses. The Unitarian church is 
seen on the right, the Orthodox on the left. Distance, 24 miles 
from Worcester, 30 from Greenfield, 10 from Royalston, 8 from 
Athol, and 58 from Boston. Population, 1,690. In 1837 there 



UPTON. 



611 



was 1 woollen mill, 2 sets of machinery ; 30,000 yards of cloth 
were manufactured; value, .fsSOjOOO; males employed, 15; females, 
15. There were 8,530 pairs of boots and 9,280 pairs of shoes 
manufactured; value, $22,327; palm-leaf hats manufactured, 
117,304; value, ^22,108. There were 9 manufactories for chairs 
and cabinet Avare; value, $12,586 ; hands employed, 22. There 
was 1 manufactory for tin ware, 1 for shovels, spades, forks or hoes, 
and 1 air and cupola furnace. Eleven saw-mills; lumber sawed, 
1,986,000 feet ; value, 1 16,040. 



UPTON. 

This town is not an original grant, but was taken from Mendon, 
Sutton, and Hopkinton. It was incorporated by the general court 
in 1735. The first church was formed in this town soon after its 




iioiitliern vuiv oj tne cential part of ( pion 

mcorporation, and Rev. Thomas Weld ordained their pastor. He 
remained a few years v/ith the people, when he was dismissed, and 
succeeded by Rev. Elisha Fish, (from Stonington, Corui..) ordained 
in 1751. He died in 1795. The next and the j)rcsent pastor. Rev. 
Benjamin Wood, was ordained in 1796. The society of Baptists 
originated about 1750, and the next year Rev. Abraham Bloss was 
ordained their teaching elder. This town presents a varied surface, 
changing from smooth to rough, and from hilly to more level ground. 
The soil is generally good, and is pretty well watered. A small 
stream, known by the name of West river, passes through the west 
part of the town, and flows into the Blackstone m the lower part 
of Uxbridge. The village consists of about 50 dwelling-houses, and 
a Congregational church, which is represented in the engraving. 
Population, 1,451. Distance, 14 miles S. E. of Worcester, and 
35 from Boston. In 1837 there was 1 woollen mill ; 2 sets of ma- 
chinery ; 31,200 yards of cloth were manufactured ; value, .$15,600; 
boots manufactured, 3,500 pairs; shoes, 117,699 pairs; value, 
$107,796 84 ; males employed, 156 ; females, 81 ; there were 14,000 
straw bonnets manufactured; value, $35,110. 

81 



612 



UXBRIDG E 



UXBRIDGE. 

This town is composed of what was formerly the western part 
of Mendon. It was set off and incorporated by an act of the gene- 
ral court in June, 1727, and then received its present name. The 
Indian name was Wacantuck. It was larger at first than at present, 
as the north part, in 1772, was set off and made a distinct town, by 
the name of Northbridge. 




Southern view of the central part of Uxbridge. 

A church was gathered here in 1731, (under the direction of Ilev. Joseph Dorr, of 
Mendon.) of which Rev. Nathan Webb wa.s ordained pastor. He continued Avith the 
people 41 years, till his death, in 1772, and was succeeded by Rev. Hezekiah Chapman, 
ordained in 1774. He was dismissed in 1781, and in 1783 Eev. .Tosiah Spaulding suc- 
ceeded, who, continuing but about 4 years, was succeeded by Rev. Samuel Judson, who 
was ordained in 1792. Rev. Samuel Clarke was in.stalled pastor of the parish church 
in 1833. Rev. David A. Grosvenor, the pastor of the second church, was settled in 
1832. There is a Friends' church in this town. 

The above is a southern view of the central part of Uxbridge, 
taken from the residence of Rev. Mr. Grosvenor. The Unitarian 
church, a gothic structure, appears in the central part; the other 
Congregational church is seen on the left. Some of the buildings 
in Rogerson's village, nearly two miles from the center, are discerned 
in the extreme distance. Population, 2,246. Distance, IS miles 
from Worcester, and 38 from Boston. 

This is a very plea.sant and flourishing town ; the center is level 
and has a light soil ; the surrounding hills are moist, and better 
adapted to grazing and orchards. There are in the town a quarry 
of stone, easily wrought and highly valuable, and an iron mine, 
from which much ore has been taken. Uxbridge enjoys important 
advantages in being situated, for nearly its whole length, on the 
Blackstonc river and canal, as well as from the water power of 
West and Mumford rivers, which here join the Blackstone. In 1S37 
there Avere 3 cotton mills; 11,000 spindles; 936,000 yards of cotton 
^oods were manufactured ; value, $168,000; males employed, 130; 
females, 250; five woollen mills ; 13 sets of machinery; 295,000 



WARREN. 



613 



yards of satinet were manufactured ; value, $186,000 ; males em- 
ployed, 62 : females, 66. 



WARREN 



This town was taken partly from Brookfield, and partly from 
I?rim field and Palmer, in Hampden county. It was incorpo- 
rated in 1741, by the name of Western. In 1834 its name 
was changed to that of Warren, in memory of Gen. Warren, 
who fell at Bunker Hill. The Congregational church was 
formed here in 1743, and the. next year Rev. Isaac Jones was 
ordained their first pastor. He died in 1784, and was succeeded 




East vitw of Uarmi, (ctntral part.) 



by Rev. Stephen Baxter, who was ordained in 1791. The suc- 
ceeding ministers have been Sylvester Burt, settled in 1806; 
Munson C. Gaylord, in 1816; Oren Catlin, in 1829; Charles Fitch, 
in 1832 ; and George Trask, in 1836. Warren is situated at the 
south-west angle of the county. The land, though rather rough, 
is productive. The river Quaboag, from Brookfield, enters this 
town from the north-east, and, passing through it, goes out at the 
west angle, and falls into the Chicopee river. Coy's hill, in the 
north part of this town, affords abundance of granite, being here 
valuable for building stone. At the foot of the hill, near the river, 
iron ore is found, and a mineral spring has been discovered, which 
has some visitants. The accompanying view shows the appear- 
ance of the central part of the town as seen from the schoolhouse, 
on the Brookfield road. The Congregational church -s seen on the 
right; the Universalist is the building seen in the distance with a 
tower. The railroad from Worcester to Springfield passes a few 
rods south of the hotel seen on the left of the engraving. There 
are at present in the town 1 cotton, 2 woollen, and 1 scythe factories. 
Population, 1,196. Distance, 24 miles westerly from Worcester, 
and 64 from Boston, In 1837, there were 45,000 palm-leaf hats 
manufactured; value, ^5,850. Value of woollen goods manufac- 
tured, |51,300; value of cotton goods, $8,000 



614 



•WE8TB0R0UGH 



WEBSTER. 

This town was set off from Dudley and Oxford, and incorpo- 
rated in 1832. It was named after the Hon. Daniel Webster. The 
surface of the town is rather rough, and the soil is not as good as 
that of the adjoining towns. The outlet of Char-gogg-a-gogg- 
man-chogg-a-gogg, a large pond in this town, three miles in length, 
affords fine water privileges. The engraving shows a north-east- 




Norlh-east vitw of Wtbster. 

ern view of the central and principal village in Webster, as it is 
entered upon the Boston road. One of the Slater cotton mills is 
seen on the left. Mr. Slater, who, it is stated, first introduced the 
cotton manufacturing business into this country, lived the latter 
part of his life in this village; his house is seen in the central part 
of the engraving, having 4 chimneys. The Methodist church and 
the center school-house, each with a spire, are seen in the back 
ground. The Baptist church is still farther westward. Popula- 
tion, 1,210. Distance, 16 miles from Worcester, and i^'d from Bos- 
ton. In 1837, there were 3 cotton mills ; 6,088 spindles ; 1,155,535 
yards of cotton goods were manufactured; value, ,$103,427; males 
employed, 62; females, 101. There were 2 woollen mills, 6 sets 
of machinery; 60,000 yards of cloth were manufactured; value, 
$180,000; males employed, 50; females, 45. One thread mill; 
42,000 lbs. of thread were manufactured ; value, $26,000 ; males 
employed, 11 ; females, 19. 



WESTBO ROUGH. 

This lown was taken from Marlborough, and lying the whole 
length of that town on the west side at the time of its incorporation, 
in Nov. 1717, it was called Westborough. This part of Marlbo- 
rough being a frontier, having no town between it and Brookfield 
on the west, about 40 miles distant, the settlement did not progress 
very rapidly. Several families, however, before 1700 were settled 
near where the Congregational meeting-house stands, of which 
were Messrs. Thomas and Edmund Rice's. The church was 



WESTBOROUGH 



615 



I 




gatliercd liere in 1724, and Rev. El)enezer Paikman was ordained 
iheir pastor; his snccessor, Rev. John Robinson, was ordained in 
17S9. The next minister, Rev. Ehslia Rockwood, was ordained 
in 1808. Rev. Hosea Hildreth was installed pastor of the parish 
church in 1834: his successors were Rev. Barnabas Phinney, in- 
stalled in 1836, and Rev. Charles B. Kitlredge, in 1837. There is 
a pleasant and well-built village in the central part of the town, 
consisting of about 50 dwelling-houses, a Congregational and Bap- 
tist church. The Boston and Worcester railroad passes through 
the center. The lands rise about a mile distant on die east, south, 
and west. The soil is good, and the township is well M^atered by 
Concord and Sudbury rivers. Population, 1.612. Distance, 12 
miles from Worcester, and 32 from Boston. In 1837, there were 
manufactured 2'), 092 pairs of boots and 120,656 pairs of shoes; 
value, ^148,774 40; males emplo^^ed, 360; females, 214. 

The above is a south-eastern view of the house in which Eli 
Whitney, the inventor of the cotton gin, was born, Dec. 8, 1765; it 
is now occupied by his brother, Mr. Benjamin Whitney, and is 
about two miles westward of the central village, on a cross road. 
His mechanical genius discovered itself at an early age. The 
small building seen standing by the house was his work-shop, 
where he manufactured various articles. His name is still to be 
seen cut on the door with his penknife. He graduated at Yale 
college, and soon after went into the state of Georgia ; while here 
he invented the cotton gin, which is worth millions oif dollars an- 
nually to the southern states. 

Before this invention, one person could clean from the seeds but one pound of cotton 
daily; with the aid of this machine a single person can in one day clean a thousand 
pounds with ease. Judge Johnson, of South Carolina, declared that by means of this 
invention " thd- lands were trtbkd in valm." For this invention Mr. Whitney obtained 
a patent, but, like many other benefactors of the public, was plundered of the benefits 
of his invention. Mr. Whitney, by turning his attention to the manufacture oi fire- 
arms for the United States, was enabled to realize a comfortable independence. The 
village which he built up two miles from New Haven, Con., for his workmen, is called 
Whitneyvilk. Mr. Whitney died in New Haven, Jan. 8, 1825. 



I 



616 



WEST BOYLSTON. 



WEST BOYLSTON. 



This town was settled as early as 1720, by several families from 
Marlborough, being then included in the grant of land called 
Shrewsbury. Among the first settlers were Benjamin Hinds, Isaac 
Temple, Edward Goodale, William Whitney, John Bixby, and 
William Holt. The town was incorporated in 1808. 




Vale of Wtst Boyhton. 

In 1796, the present town was incorporated a separate parish. In the same year a 
Congregational church was gathered, consisting of 32 members. Kev. William Nash, 
the first minister, was ordained on the 11th of Oct., 1797. His successor. Rev. John 
Boardman, was ordained in 1821 ; the next minister was installed in 1834. Rev. 
Philemon Russell, pastor of the Unitarian society, was ordained in 1831. In 1813, a .so- 
ciety of Baptists was formed in the town. In 1818. they built a meetins-house. The next 
year the church was organized, of about 50 members, who had been disnnssed from the 
church in Ilolden. In 1821, they had constant preaching by Rev. Nicholas Branch. 
The first settlers of the town built a stockade fort, of square logs, for defence, on the 
land now owned by Mr. John Temple. This fort stood till about 1790 ; the only inti- 
mations of any hostilities against it were a few bullets lodged in the timbers. A few 
traces of the aborigines are sometimes discovered. 

In the south part of the town is a beautiful and romantic spot, called Pleasant Valley. 
At some remote period it was the location of a si.iall pond. The engraving shows the 
appearance of this spot as it is seen from the north. At this point, immediately north, and 
separated from the valley by a bar or ridge of land, is a depression of a number of feet 
lower than the vale, which is, perhaps, 10 or 12 rods in length, and in its formation 
resembles the bowl of a spoon. This place is about one mile southerly of the principal 
village of West Boylston. The following notice of this beautiful little spot, with the 
accompanying lines, are taken from the American Traveller of July 14, 1826 : 

" On leavin? the road you enter a grove of oaks and maples, between two declivities, and continuing down 
this avenue that winds alon? throii?h ttie shrub oaks, at ouce opiuis to the view a plain of 3 or 1 acre.-), of an 
oval form, surrounded on every aide, e-xrepl the narrow pass by which you enter, by hiffh and almost per- 
pendicular banks, whose sides are covered by the birch and shrub oak, and whose top.'s are surmounted by 
irees of the largest size. The plaiii is more level and smooth than art could make it ; no remains of ancient 
trees, no stone, not even a stray branch of the neighboring grove near the scene. A fine short grass covers 
the whole area, and presents to the eye an enchanting fairy green. The stilhie.ss of death reigns, undia- 
lurbed by the noise of the world. It is a place for contemplation, where man can turn his thoughts home 
Ui his own breast and meditate on the foUiaa of the world, or where he can upturn them to Him th« lupremo 
Architect of nature. 



WINCHENDON. 617 

" Sweet vale of West Boylston ! how calm a retreat 

From the sorrows and cares of this cold world of woe; 
Wilh thy ihick-covered banks, where the wild tlowrets meet, 
And thy ser[3enline paihs where the evergreens grow. 

Oh, here the war tnnnpet shall never be heard, 

Here the banners of foemen shall ne'er be unfurl'd ; 
At the tramp of the warhnrse. thy paths shall be barred, 

And peace with her wand bid him back to the world. 
Thy carpel so green, 'neath the blue sky outspread, 

Shall never be soil'd by the foot of dishonor — 
Here the children of nature by truth shall be led. 

And fear not the intrusions of care or of sorrow. 
Be this the retreat of the votaries of love, 

For the friends of the heart — be il piety's fane. 
Where their vows and their prayers shall ascend — and above 

Shall be heard, and Heaven grant that they be heard not in vain. 
Oh. here have I roam'd with the friend of my heart, 

When the last rays of sunshine were gildin? the spot — 
And the thoughts of that hour they shall never depart, 

And the friends that were there shall ne'er be forgot." 

In 1837, there were in this town 7 cotton mills; 8,036 spindles; 
1,502,000 yards of cotton goods were manufactured ; value, 
$151,450; males employed, 89; females, 168. Population, 1,330. 
Distance, 7 miles from Worcester, and 42 from Boston. 



WESTMINSTER, 



This town, with others, was granted by the general court to the 
soldiers who did service in the Narragansett or King Philip's war, 
or to their heirs. It was styled Narragansett No 2. until its incor- 
poration in 1769, when it was named \Vestminster. The proprie- 
tors of this town were chiefly inhabitants of Cambridge, Charles- 
town, WatertoAvn, Weston, Sudbury, Newton, Medford, Maiden, 
and Reading. 

The first person who settled on the s;rant -was Capt. Fairbanks Moor, who moved 
therewith his family in March, 1737. In June following, Dea. Joseph Holden moved 
his family into the place. These two families contained 15 persons. It being an 
exposed plantation, settlers moved in but slowly. The proprietors erected a meeting- 
house in 1739. The Congregational church was formed, and Rev. Elisha Marsh 
ordained pastor, in 1742. He was dismissed in 1757, and the town had no minister 
from that time till 1765, when the Rev. Asaph Rice was settled. Previously Mr. Rice 
had been a missionary among the Indians. The next pastor. Rev. Cyrus Mann, was 
settled in 1815. This town being exposed to Indian assaults, the general court, in 1743, 
granted £400 to fortify the place, with which ten forts were erected, and soldiers sta- 
tioned there for the defence of the plantation. In 1746, some of the people of the 
place were put under pay as a town scout. But althougli the people suffered many 
trials and hardships, it is believed that no person belonging to the town was ever cut 
off by the enemy. 

This town is situated on the range of highlands which separate the waters of the 
Connecticut and Rlerrimac. The soil of the township is fertile, containing good grazing 
lands. There are three churches, 1 Congregational, 1 Universalist, and one Baptist. 
Topulation, 1,640. Distance, 26 miles from Worcester, and 50 from Boston. In 1837, 
there were 14 manufactories of chairs and cabinet ware ; value of articles manufac- 
tured, $26,350 ; hands employed, 38. There were 8,400 straw bonnets manufactured ; 
value, $15,675. 



WINCHENDON 



This town was granted by the general court, in 1735, to 60 per- 
sons, all of whom, excepting 8, belonged to Ipswich, in Essex 



619 WORCESTER. 

county. It was called " Ipswich Canada" till its incorporation, in 
1764, by the name of Winchendon, because most of the grantees 
were soldiers or the heirs of soldiers who had served in an expedi- 
tion to Canada in 1690. 

By the year 1752, ten families were fixed down here. But the settlement was retard- 
ed by what is usually called the last French war. Most of the settlers left the place ; 
those who remained were obliged to keep in garrisons. The proprietors set up the first 
meeting-house, 45 feet by 35, in the spring of 1762. The church was organized, and 
Rev. Daniel Stimpson ordained their pastor, in December of the same year. He died in 
1768, and was succeeded by Rev. Joseph Brown, who was ordained in 1769. Rev. Levi 
Pilsbury, the next pastor, was ordained in 1801 ; he was succeeded by Rev. Eber Clark, 
who was installed in 1820. Rev. Daniel 0. Morton was installed the next pastor in 1836. 

This town is rocky and moderately uneven, but the soil is deep and good. Manomo- 
nack Pond, lying partly in this town and partly in New Hampshire, is the head source 
of Miller's river. Several branches of the stream meet here, and the town enjoys valu- 
able water privileges. There are 3 churches, 1 Congregational, 1 Baptist, and 1 Meth- 
odist. Population, 1,802. Distance, 33 miles from Worcester, and 60 from Boston. In 
1837, there was 1 cotton mill, 4,000 spindles ; 1,000,000 yards of cotton goods manu- 
factured ; males employed, 25 ; females, 125 ; one woollen mill, 3 sets of machinery ; 
55,000 yards of cloth were manufactured; value, $53,000 ; males employed, 25; fe- 
males, 25. 



WORCESTER. 



Worcester was incorporated in 1684, but in consequence of 
Indian hostilities the first town meeting was not held till 1722. 
This part of the country was called by the Indians Qiiinsigamond, 
that being the name of a large pond on the eastern border of the 
town. The central situation of this town both in regard to the 
county and state, the fertility of its soil and that of the sur- 
rounding country, and the industry, intelligence, and wealth of the 
inhabitants, justly entitle it to the honor of being called the chief 
town of the ^^ Heart of the CommomreaUh.^^ 

In October, 1668, a township of land of rather more than eight miles square, bounded 
easterly by Quinsigamond pond, was granted by the general court to Daniel Gookin, 
Daniel Henchman, Thomas Prentice, and their associates. On account of the Indian 
war prevailing about this period, the immediate settlement of the place was prevented. 
In 1685, the Indians appearing friendly, the persons named above, together with John 
Wing, George Danson, Peter Goulding, Dickery Sargeant, Isaac Bull, and Jacob Leon- 
ard, ventured to begin the plantation. It appears, however, that there were six or 
seven houses erected here in 1675, but, on account of King Philip's war, which then 
raged, they were soon deserted. 

The natives who inhabited Quinsigamond were of the Nipmuc tribe. The principal 
settlement of these Indians in Worcester was on a hill in the south part of the town, 
extending into Ward, called by them Pakachoag, now known as Bogachoag. Wig- 
wam hill, on the eastern shore of Quinsigamond, was probably a favorite residence for 
them, on account of the fish and wild game in the vicinity. These Indians were 
visited by Mr. Elliot, the " Indian apostle," and Mr. Gookin, in 1674 ; at this time they 
had made considerable advances in civilization, and some of them professed Chris- 
tianity. In 1675, Pakachoag was visited by King Philip, who by his artifices and 
threats induced most of the Indians to take up arms against the whites. 

After the return of the whites to Worcester in 1683, the settlement of the place went 
on prosperously till 1701, when the Indians again began to attack the frontier towns, 
and Worcester was again depopulated. After all the other planters had fled, Dickery 
Sargeant, with his family, determined to remain and brave the dangers from the Indian 
foe. He remained unmolested till 1703 or 1704. The following particulars of his 
death are preserved. When the Indians surrounded his house, Sargeant seized his 
gun to defend himself; as he was retreating to the stair-way, he was shot down by the 
savages. Upon this they rushed into the house and completed the work of death by 
Iheir tomahawks, and tore ofi" his scalp. They seized his wife and five children, and 
commenced a rapid retreat westward. Mrs. Sargeant, overcome with grief and fatigue. 



« s- 




woacBSTSB. 619 

impeded their progress. As ihey were ascending the Tataesset or Tatnlck hills, a 
chief stepped out of the file, and, while pretending to be looking for game, came up 
behind Mrs. Sargeant in an unsuspected moment, and deprived his sinking captive of 
life at a single blow. The children were carried into Canada, where they remained a 
long time before they were restored to their friends. Two of the children. Daniel and 
Mary, preferred remaining with their captors, and adopted the habits and manners of 
the Indians. In 1709, Elisha Ward, who was sent on an express from Marlborough 
to Hadley, having stopped to examine his deserted farm, was killed. 

Peace being concluded with the Indians, Mr. Jonas Rice, with his family, on the 21sl 
of October, 1713, moved into Worcester, and were the only inhabitants of the town 
until the spring of 171.5. The first white male child bora in Worcester was Adonijah 
Rice, who was born Nov. 7, 1714. His father built his house on Sagatabscot hill, and 
his farm included some of the lands once cultivated by Sargeant. In 1715, a conside- 
rable number of persons joined the settlement ; in 1718 their number was augmented 
by emigrants from Ireland, principally of Scotch descent. The first labor of the in- 
habitants was to erect a garrison-house, on the west side of the Leicester road, not far 
from the old south church. Another log fortress was built near the head of the street 
called Columbian avenue ; a third was on the Connecticut road, north of Lincoln 
square. A regular block-house was placed north of Adams square, where a long iron 
cannon was afterwards mounted to give alarm of coming danger. During the French 
war. this gun was removed to the green near the meeting-house. On the commence- 
ment of the Revolution, it was posted west of the court-house. On the news of the 
march of the British to Lexington, its voice aroused the people to arms. Meetings for 
religious worship were first held at the house of Gershom Rice. A building was soon 
erected for religious worship on Green street, north of the union of Franklin street, 
where the inhabitants met, until a spacious meeting-house was reared on the site of 
the old south church, in 1719. According to the evidence furnished by the proprietary 
records, there were in Worcester, in 1718, fifty-eight dwelling-houses. "Tradition 
says they were humble edifices, principally of logs, one story high, with ample stone 
chimneys. Some were furnished with windows of diamond glass, where the resources 
of the proprietor aff'orded the means for procuring such luxury; the light was admitted 
m many through the dim transparency of oiled paper." 

Rev. Andrew Gardner, the first minister, was ordained in 1719. He was succeeded 
by Rev. Isaac Burr, in 1725. The next pastor was Rev. Thaddeus Maccarty, who 
was installed in 1747. Rev. Samuel Austin, D. D., his successor, was installed in 
1790. Rev. Charles A. Goodrich, the next minister, was settled in 181fi, and was suc- 
ceeded in 1821 by Rev. Aretius B. Hull. Mr. Hull was succeeded by Rev. Rodney 
A. Miller, in 1827. Rev. Aaron Bancroft, D. D., was ordained pastor of the Second 
church in 1786. He was born in 1755, and is the oldest clergyman in the county. 
Rev. Alonzo Hill was ordained colleague pastor in 1827. Rev. Loammi I. Hoadley 
was ordained pastor of the Cnlvinist church in 1823. He was succeeded by Rev. John 
S. C. Abbott in 1830. and by Rev. David Peabody in 1835. Rev. Jona. E. Woodbridge 
was installed pastor of the Uninn church in 183'). The fir.>t Baptist society was formed 
in 1812. Elder William Bentley was the first minister. He was succeeded by Rev. 
Jonathan Going in 1815. The next pastor, Rev. Frederick A. Willard, was settled in 
1832. The Catholic society was formed in 1834, the Methodist Episcopal in 1834, the 
Protestant Episcopal in 1835, and the Union society in 1836. 

Worcester is the shire town of the county, being situated 40 
miles westward from Boston, 40 N. N. W. from Providence, about 
50 from Northampton, 60 miles E. N. E. from Hartford, and 394 
from Washington. Latitude 42° 16' 9" W., longitude from Lon- 
don 71" 49'. The township is about six miles square. The surface 
is undulating, swelling into hills of moderate acclivity, gentle 
slopes, and rounded outlines. The soil is fertile, and is in a high 
state of cultivation, affording many beautiful prospects on which 
the eye delights to linger. The population of the town ^s 7,117. 
The principal village of Worcester is built chiefly upon one street, 
extending a mile from north to south, and is situated in a valley 
opening to the south, and is surrounded by hills of moderate ele- 
vation on almost every side. It is one of the finest and most con- 
siderable inland villages in the New England states. 



620 



WORCBBTBR. 




Fiew at the 7iorth entra?ice to the village of Worcester. 



The above is a view of the north entrance to the village of Wor- 
cester, taken from the old Boston road. The first building seen in 
the center is the court-house. The next is the Unitarian church, 
and the spire on the left is that of the Central church. The build- 
ding on an elevation on the right is the mansion-house of Stephen 
Salisbury, Esq. The large warehouses and stores, crowded with 
every variety of goods, the superior style and appearance of the 
public and private buildings, the passing of travellers and others 
in the streets, give this place the appearance and activity of a city. 
There are in the limits of the village 7 houses for public worship, 
4 Congregational, (one of which is Unitarian,) 1 Baptist, 1 Catho- 
lic, and 1 Methodist. There are 4 banks, the Worcester, the Central, 
the Quinsigamond, and Citizens' Banks, whose united capitals 
amount to $900,000. There are 2 Mutual Fire Insurance Com- 
panies, a Lyceum, formed Nov. 4th, 1S29, 5 printing-offices, from 
which are issued 5 newspapers. Among the public buildings are a 
Court-House, the County House of Correction, the Hall of the 
Antiquarian Society, and the State Lunatic Hospital. It may be 
truly stated that few towns in this country "exhibit so. uniform an 
appearance of taste, or contain so great a proportion of good build- 
ings, and so small a proportion of those that are indifferent, as 
Worcester." 

The following is a representation of the Hall of the American 
Antiquarian Society at Worcester. The central part of the building 
was erected in 1819 and 1820, and dedicated on the 24th of Au- 
gust of the latter year. This part of the building is 46 feet long, 
and 36 wide. Wings were extended in 1832, each 28 feet long and 
21 wide. The whole building is of brick. The central part, and 
the land on which the building stands, is the donation of the late 
Isaiah Thomas, LL. D. The society was organized in 1812, and 
its officers annually chosen on its anniversary meeting, on the 23d 
of October, the day on which Columbus discovered America. The 
object of this institution is the collection and preservation of 
American antiquities. It was also the intention of Mr. Thomas, 



VrORCXSTSR. 



621 




Western view of the Antiquarian Hall. 

the munificent patron of the society, that its Hbrary should embrace 
as perfect a collection of American literature as possible. Toassistin 
attaining this object, he presented the society between four and five 
thousand volumes of books, among which are many valuable works 
illustrating the history of the country, as well as many rare and 
mteresting specimens of early printing. The library of the society 
now contains about 12,UU0 volumes, and is increasing. Visiters 
can have easy access to it, and it is open to those who have occa- 
sion to use the books. As it is national in its objects, this institution 
bids fair to have the largest, as well as the most valuable, collection 
of books and manuscripts in this country. 



Isaiah Tfuimas, the gentleman to whom this institution is so deeply indebted, was 
born in Boston, January 19th, 1749. At the age of less than six years he was botind 
apprentice to a Mr. Fowle, who carried on the pruitiug business in a small way in Bos- 
ton. Havmg purchased the printing materials of 3Ir. Fowle, Mr. Thomas issued a 
newspaper on March 7th, 1771, called the " JMassnchiisetts Spi/." The revolutionary 
contest was then impending, and Mr. Thomas being a warm friend of American 
freedom, his paper became the favorite champion of the rights of the people. Such a 
course rendered Mr. Thoma.s obno.Kious to the royal officers of the government. He 
was put on the list of the proscribed, and was threatened with personal violence. 
Having been solicited by the whigs of Worcester to establish a newspaper in that 
place, he privately had his types and press conveyed thither, and the Spy made its 
appearance in this place May 3, 1775, after a suspen.sion of three weeks. After the 
revolutionary war, IMr. Thomas, uniting the employments of printer, publisher, and 
bookseller, the manufacture of paper and binding, he was able to accomplish a great 
amount of business. At one period he had under his personal direction, and that of 
his partners, sixteen presses in constant motion. In 1802 Mr. Thomas relinquished a 
prosperous business to his son. He, however, did not remain idle. In 1810, his 
" History of Printing," in two octavo volumes, was published, evincing great research 
and fidelity of narrative, and is a standard work of the kind. In 1814 he received the 
honorary degree of Master of Arts from Dartmouth college — that of Doctor of Laws 
from Alleghany college, in 1818. He was president of the Antiquarian Society from 
its foundation until his decease, April 4, 1831, at the age of 82 years. 

Lunatic Hospital. " This monument of the charity of the state is situated 
on a beautiful eminence eastward of the town. The buildings of the west front, 
erected in 1831, consist of a center, 76 feet long, 40 feet wide, and four stories high, 
projecting 22 feet forward of the wings, which extend to the north and south ninety feet 
each on the front and 100 feet in the rear, are 36 feet wide, and three stories high. 
This arrangement was adopted so as to secure free communication with the central 
structure, occupied by the superintendent, steward, attendants, and domestics, and to 



622 



WORCESTER. 




U'estern vierr of the State Lunatic Hospital. 

permit the ventilation and lighting of the long halls reaching through the wings. The 
ranges of apartments for the insane, 8 feet by 10, have each a window, with the upper 
sash of cast-iron and lower sash of wood, both glazed ; on the exterior of the wooden 
sash is a false sash of iron, corresponding in its appearance and dimensions, but firmly 
set into the frame, giving the reality of a grate without its gloomy aspect. In 1835, a 
building 134 feet in length and 34 feet in width was attached to the southern extremity 
of the hospital, of equal height, and extending eastward at right angles with the front ; 
in 1836, another edifice of the same magnitude was placed at the north end. Three 
sides of a great square are now enclosed by these immense structures of brick. Pro- 
vision is made for the difi"usion of heat, the circulation of air, the supply of water ; and 
the most judicious regulations promote the health and comfort of the inmates. 

" In this hospital, those are placed under restraint by public authority who are so 
furiously mad that their liberty would endanger the safety of the community. To feel 
its value, one must have heard the chained maniacs howling in the dungeons of the 
common gaols, in frantic excitement and hopeless misery, and seen the quiet of the 
great establishment where the insane receive every alleviation of their mental diseases 
which fit accommodations, remedial treatment, and high skill can bestow. The insti- 
tution has been under the superintendence of Dr. Samuel B. Woodward since its 
commencement. Its statistics are fully detailed in the reports annually made by the 
trustees to the legislature." 

A number of the streams which form the head waters of Black- 
stone river meet in this town, and furnish a considerable water 
power. The Blackstone Canal extends from Worcester to Provi- 
dence, a distance of about 45 miles. It is 18 feet Made at the bot- 
tom, 36 at the top of the banks. It is built alternately on both 
sides of the Blackstone river, and passes nearly all the great manu- 
facturing establishments in the valley of the Blackstone. The first 
boat which passed through the whole extent arrived at the upper 
basin Oct. 7, 1828. The expense of the work was about 750,000 
dollars ; of this amount more than half a million of dollars was 
paid by the citizens of Rhode Island. The canal has been more 
useful to the public than to the owners; the amount of transporta- 
tion, however, has increased. 

"The Boston and Worcester Railroad was incorporated June 23, 1831. The 
road, extending 44 miles eastward, is laid with a single track of edge rails, on cast-iroa 
chairs, resting on wooden sleepers, bedded in trenches filled -wnth stones. The cost of 
coostruction has been Sl,500,000, including land, labor, cars, engines, and buildings 



WORCBSTBR. 623 

Passenger cars go in each direction three times daily during the -warm months, and 
twice in the cold season, except on Sundays. The time is from 2i to 3 hours, includ- 
ing stops at ten places ; the fare has been $1 50, but in the autumn of 1836 was raised 
to $2. The freight of merchandise from Boston to Worcester, by the ton, is $3 50 ; 
from Worcester to Boston, $3. A branch railroad is soon to be laid to Millbury. About 
a mile from the depot on Main street, the road passes through a deep cutting of the 
slate rock, about 30 feet in its greatest depth, and extending about 30 rods. The strata 
are almost perpendicular, and were removed from their beds by a laborious process of 
blasting." 

"The NoRwicit AND Worcester Railroad Company was incorporated March 2o, 
1833. A charter had been previously obtained in Connecticut, for the route within her 
jurisdiction, at the May session, 1832. By an act of this commonwealth, April 10, and 
of that state. May, 1836, the two companies were united. From Norwich to Worcester 
is 58 miles ; to Boston, 102. The work of construction is now advancing. The capital 
stock is Sl,500,000." 

"The Western Railroad Corporation was established March 15, 1833, for the 
purpose of building a railroad from the western termination of the Boston and Wor- 
cester railroad to Connecticut river in Springfield, and thence across the stream to the 
western boundary of the state, where it* will connect with railroads in progress, one to 
Albany, one to Troy, and one to Hudson. The stock of $3,000,000 has been subscrib- 
ed, two thirds by individuals, and one third by the state, and a portion of the road 
located." 

During the first movements of the Revolution, Worcester was the 
central point whence the animating influences in favor of Ameri- 
can freedom were diffused over the surrounding country. In March, 
1775, the company of minute men in this place were directed to 
train half a day in each week. This company had met almost 
daily for months, and, under the instruction of Capt. Bigelow, they 
attained great proficiency in military science. 

" Their services were soon to be required Gpr the defence of the country. Before noon 
on the 19th of April, an express came to the town, shouting, as he passed through the 
street at full speed, 'To arms! to arms! the war is begun!' His white horse, bloody 
with spurring and dripping with sweat, fell exhausted by the church. Another was 
instantly procured, and the tidings went on. The passage of the messenger of war, 
mounted on his white steed, and gathering the population to battle, made vivid im- 
pression on memory. The tradition of his appearance is preserved in many of our 
villages. In the animated description of the aged, it seems like the representation of 
death on the pale horse careering through the land with his terrific summons to the 
grave. The bell rang out the alarm, cannon were fired, and messengers sent to every 
part of the town to collect the soldiery. As the news spread, the implements of hus- 
bandrv were thrown by in the field, and the citizens left their homes with no longer 
delay than to seize their arms. In a short time, the minute men were paraded on the 
green, under Capt. Timothy Bigelow ; after fervent prayer by the Rev. Mr. Maccarty, 
they took up the line of march. They were soon followed by as many of the train 
bands as could be gathered, under Capt. Benjamin Flagg. On that day, 110 men 
marched from the town of Worcester for Concord. Intelligence of the retreat of the 
enemy met them after they advanced, and they turned towards Boston. When Capt. 
Bigelow reached the ancient Howe tavern, in Sudbury, he halted to rest his men. 
Capt. Benjamin Flagg, who had commenced his march an hour or two later, came up, 
and insisting on pushing forward without loss of time, both officers moved on to Cam- 
bridge." 

On Saturday, July 14, 1776, the Declaration of Independence 
was received at Worcester. It was first publicly read by Isaiah 
Thomas from the porch of the old south meeting-house to the as- 
sembled crowd. On Sunday, after divine service, it was read in 
the church. On the Monday following, the event which separated 
the colonies from the mother country was celebrated with formal 
solemnities. 



624 WORCESTER. 

The following occurrences took place in Worcester during the 
insurrectionary period called "Shays' Rebellion." The following 
account is taken from the History of Worcester, by William Lin- 
coln, Esq., an octavo volume containing 384 pages, published at 
Worcester, in 1837, by Messrs. Moses D. Philips & Co. This work 
is one of great research, is most ably written, and full of interesting 
details, and the author of this work is deeply indebted to it for the 
foregoing account of Worcester. 

" Although wamine of danger had been given, confiiling in the loyalty nf the people, their love of order, 
and respect for the laws, the olficers of government !iad made no preparations to .support the court, to bo 
held in Worcester, in September, 1786. On Monday nisht, of the first week in that niontli, a tjody of 
eighty armed men. under Capt. Adam Wheeler of Hubbardston, entered the town, and took po.sse^3ion of 
the courthouse. Early the nevt morning, their numbers were augmented to nearly one hundred, and as 
many more collected without fire-arms. The jiHi^es of the common pleas had as.sembled al the house of 
the Hon. Joseph Allen. At the u.«ual hour, with the ju.ftices of the sessions and the members of the bar, 
attended by the clerk anil sherilT, they moved towards the conn-house. Chief Justice Arlemas Ward, a 
general of ihe Kevolution, united intrepid firmness with prudent moderation. His re.soI«teand manly bear- 
ing on that day of dilficully and embarrassment sustaijied the dignity of the office he bore, and commanded 
the respect even of his opponents. On him devolved the responsibility of an occasion affecting deeply ji»e 
future peace of the community; and it was supported well and ably. ■ 

" On the verge of the crowd thronging the hill, a .sentinel was parin? on his round, who challenged the 
procession as it approached his po.st. Gen. Ward sternly ordered the soldier, formerly a subaltern of his 
own particular regiment, to recover his levelled musket. The man, awed by the voice he had been accus- 
tomed to obey, in.stanlly compli'd, and presented hi.-i piece in military salute to his old commander. Tho 
court, having received the honors of war from him who was planted to oppose thetr advance, went on. 
The multitude, receding to the right and left, made way in .sullen silence, till the judicial officers reached 
the court-house. On the steps was stationed a file of men with fixed bayonets: on the front stood Captain 
Wheeler, with his drawn sword The crier was directed to open the diK>r,s, and permitted to throw them 
back, displaying a ])arty of infantry with their guns levelled, as if ready to fire. Juck'e Ward then advanced, 
and the b.iynnets were turned against his bri;a.sl. He demanded, repeatedly, who commanded the people 
there ; by what authority, and for what purpose, they had met in hostile array. Wheeler at length replied. 
After disclaiming the rank of leader, he stated, that they had come to relieve the distresses of the country, 
by preventing the sittings of courts until they could obtain redress of grievances. The chief ju.siice an- 
swered, that he would satisfy them their complaints were without just foundation. He was told by CapU 
Smith of Barre, that any communication he had to make must be reduced to writing. Judge Ward indig- 
nantly refused to do this ; he said he ' did not value their bayonet.s ; they might plunee them to his heart ; 
but while that heart beat he would ilo his duty : when opposed to it. his lifi: wns of little consecpience : if 
Ihey would take away their bayonets and give him some position where he Cnidd he heard by his fellow- 
citizens, and not by the leaders alone who had deceived and deluded them, he would speak, but not other- 
wise.' The insurgent otTicers, fearful of the etTectof his determined manner on the minds of their followers, 
interrupted. They did not come there, they .said, to listen to long speeches, but to resist oppression : they 
had the power to compel submission ; and they demanded an adjournment without day. Judge Ward 
peremptorily refused to .answer any proposition, unless it was accompanied by the name of him by whom 
It was made. They then desired him to fall back; the drum was beat, and llie guard ordered to charge. 
The soldiers advanced, until the points of their bayonets pressed hard upon the brea.st of the chief justice, 
who stood as immovable as a statue, without stirring a limb or yielding an inch, although the steel in the 
hands of desperate men penetrated his dress. Struck with admiration by his intrepidity, and shrinking 
from the sacrifice of life, the guns were removed, and Judge Ward, a.scending the .steps, addressed the as- 
sembly. In a style of clear and forcible argument, he examined their supposed grievances; exposed their 
fallacy ; explained the dangerous tendency of their rash measures; admonished them that they were plac- 
ing in peril the liberty acquired by the etiiirts and sufferings of years, plunging the country in civil war, 
and involving themselves and their families in misery : that the measures they had taken musfdefeat their 
own wishes ; for the government would never yield that to force, which would be readily accorded to re- 
spectful repre-senlations : and warned them that the majesty of the laws would be vindicated, and their resist- 
ance of its power avenged. He spoke nearly two hours, not without frefjuent interruption. But admonition 
and argumeitl were unavailing: the insurgents declared they would maintain their ground until satisfaction 
was obtained. Judge Ward, addressing himself to Wheeler, advised him to suffer the troops to disperse : 
'they were waging war, which was treason, and its end wotdd be.' he added, after a momentary pause, 
' the gallows. ' The judges then retired unmole.sted, through armed files. Soon after the court was opened 
al the United States Arms Tavern, and immediately adjourned to the next day." 

In 1837, there were 3 cotton mills ; 3,424 spindles ; 546,521 yards of cotton goods 
■were manufactured ; value, $62,182 ; males employed, 34 ; females, 47 ; there were 
8 woollen mills ; 16 sets of machinery; 326,790 yards of cloth manufactured ; value, 
$360,352; males employed, 112; females, 113 ; there were 18,697 pairs of boots and 
27,075 pairs of shoes manufactured ; value, $59,020 34 ; males employed, 89 ; females, 
33. Nine manufactories of woollen machinery; value of machinery manufactured, 
$240,000 ; hands employed, 160. Four hat manufactories ; 8,300 hats manufactured; 
value, $33,200. Two paper-mills ; value of paper manufactured, $54,815. One air 
and cupola furnace ; 300 tons of castings made ; value, $30,000. Wire manufactory ; 
value of Avire, $45,000 ; straw bonnets manufactured, 12,500 ; value, $25,000. Two 
coach and chaise manufactories ; value of coaches and chaises, $60,000 ; hands em 
ployed, forty. 



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